When it comes to putting a new roof over your head, your expectations are high. Aren’t they? If we wanted to put all expectations in 4 main headlines, we’d speak of function, performance, aesthetics, and longevity. Who would be okay with anything less?
A roof is a roof. It’s there to protect from the elements, intruders, insects, animals – anything, while at the same time, improve the curb appeal and yes, ultimately increase the home value. With new technology and advanced materials, roofs – nowadays, do much more, like increasing the home’s energy efficiency. It all comes down to choices you make about anything related to the roofing system – the materials, underlayment, the pitch, the roof contractor, everything.
One of the most important decisions you need to make is the roofing material. And the truth is that today even the cheapest materials are strong enough to last for a long time. After all, there’s much more to a shingle roof – for example. The roof’s performance and your happiness (by extension) both depend on the roof’s components, the way everything is installed – a number of things.
There’s no doubt about the differences among roof materials. They are not all the same. Take natural slate, for example. It’s extremely durable and thus, lasts for longer than we do but the tiles are also heavy and thus, bad for the home’s structure and difficult to install. Want another example? Take wood shingles and shakes. They are beautiful, outlive asphalt shingles by at least 5 years, but not right – often prohibited, for areas where wildfires are possible.
What have we established here? Although all roof materials are good, they are not all good for all people and for all locations. So, which are the criteria to take into account when you are trying to choose among roofing materials? Let’s see.
Roof Cost
Ask your local roofing contractor to give you prices. That’s because the costs may vary among locations. What’s vital to remember is that not all roof materials cost the same. As all things, some cost much more than others and there’s often a reason for that – better quality, longer span, extra durability, etc. So, you need to weigh the advantages of a certain material in relation to its cost and also in relation to what you need. If you don’t care if the slate tiles last for 150 years, why pay for them?
And then, it has to do with your budget too. You may as well afford an expensive roof. Why not get it? Since the budget always dictates our choices, you need to remember that buying the roof material won’t be your only expense. You need to consider the extra components – if charged separately, the roofers, etc.
Material Durability
While all roof materials are strong, some are stronger. Durability matters a lot when it comes to the roof and it surely affects the roof’s longevity, but your decision is also subject to the home’s location. If the climate is mild, if there’s hardly a chance of impact from flying objects, you don’t need to worry about that too much.
The Climate
Speaking of the local climate, it’s important to pinpoint that this is one of the most important criteria to take into consideration. To put it simply, the harshest the weather in your location the stronger material you need.
Roof Aesthetics
Since the roof is not only one of the first things you see when you stand in your yard but it is often seen from afar, its aesthetics matter. You need a beautiful roof that will make a difference and depict your style. So, start from there. Consider your home style and colors first.
Energy Efficiency
While the energy efficiency of your home is subject to many things, the roof’s components and attic insulation included, the material of the roof is also important. Check the roof ratings before you make a choice.
Local Restrictions
Speak with your roof company about possible local building codes or community restrictions that may keep you from using some colors or would have some limitations in regard to the roof’s slope. Such things would not simply influence but actually dictate your decision.
