For most homeowners, adding a new roof is an uphill task. From finding a trustworthy and qualified roofer to the installation seems like a never-ending journey. However, the biggest challenge is choosing the material as that is where most owners go wrong. Sure, with good research you can find the roofing material that is suitable for your home but the overwhelming options make then task complicated and difficult. That is why you need to follow a guide that helps you understand how topping your house with a new roof can be a valuable investment.
Read below and find out how to choose the best roof from different types of roofing materials:
- Pick the color
For most homeowners, installing a new roof begins with an analysis of materials. However, an even bigger concern should be what color the roof needs to have. It becomes more difficult because the sun’s rays make the color look different. So, you have got to be very tricky and make the decision carefully.
Another aspect is to make the temperature of the color math with the body color of the house. For instance, homes with warm shades in the exterior like beige, brown, cream, red or yellow should have a roof of the same but it is usually one shade darker than the outside paint. Similarly, houses with cooler shades like gray, green, or blue needs to follow suit.
- Style of the house
The style of the house or the building is a significant aspect and added to it is the shape of the roof. The shape matters because a complex configuration in the structure does not allow roofing sheets to be used. Besides, it ceases to be cost-effective as a lot of material remains unused. Using metal roofs in areas where there are more corrosive substances in the air may not last. Therefore, soft tiles are a better option.
- Budget of roofing material
No matter what the roofing material is, replacing it can cost you very high. However, you cannot choose any material as the budget tends to soar. So, decide how much you want to spend for the new roof at the start and pick a material. For instance, if you are looking for affordable materials, asphalt shingles are an ideal choice. On the other hand, if you need luxury materials, you can stick to asphalt but choose a higher grade of material. Similarly, options like slate tiles and cedar shakes become unaffordable for most people.
- Application
The choice of material for roofing depends on whether it is to be installed on a new or an existing structure. When replacing the roof entirely, you will have far greater choice of materials than installing it on the existing structure. Moreover, you need not worry about the pitch and composition of the underlying roofing structure. For installing the new one on an existing structure, you need to keep in mind that it blends well with what is already there and hence your options become limited.
- Check the climate
When picking the roofing material, you must consider the environment and the climate. For instance, if it rains in your area more often, you need to consult with the roofer and decide which material is more appropriate. Heavy downpours in winter may turn to snow, so you must have a slanting roof to allow the water and the snow to escape easily. On the other hand, in coastal areas where humid conditions prevail, you need to keep in mind that the growth of algae, mold, and mildew may affect the performance of the roof. In places were high heat conditions prevails, concrete, slate tiles, and terracotta are befitting choices. Try to choose a material that can easily withstand the elements and prevents damage to the roof.
- Lifespan of the roof
When considering roof replacement, you must never forget to calculate the number of years it will expectedly last. Usually, the life expectancy of roofs tends to differ. So, you may choose asphalt shingles and stay relaxed up to 30 years. A wooden roof may also have the same lifespan when there are fewer weather fluctuations in your area. If you are keen to get a better lifespan, composite roofs or metal roofs may last up to 50 years. However, the lifespan may be more or less and never exact due to the quality of the materials and the professionalism of the roofer during installation.
- Maintenance of the roof
Just as the types of roofing materials vary according to the budget, it may also vary based on maintenance. Truly speaking, most homeowners would prefer picking materials that are low on maintenance. Ask questions about maintenance and go a step ahead when choosing the roof:
- How elaborate is the maintenance to keep the roof in good shape?
- How often you may need to hire a roofer?
- What is the cost of maintenance likely to be?
- Does the roof require a coat of paint every year?
Make sure to get satisfactory answers to these questions when choosing the material.
- Sturdiness of the roof
Is the area where you live is prone to wildfires, hurricanes, or hailstorms, the sturdiness of the roofing material is one factor you cannot skip. Remember that the smallest hole on the roof allows water to penetrate and damage the layers. As far as fire safety is concerned, metal, asphalt, tile, treated wood are least likely to catch fire.
- Appearance of the roof
During roof replacement, you don’t just think about the characteristics of the material and how long it will last. The appearance of the roof vis-à-vis the architectural style of the house is an important consideration. Furthermore, the landscape in the surroundings and the other external features are also to be taken into account.
The construction of a new roof comes with plenty of responsibilities. Therefore, when choosing the material, you need to approach the work realistically. Make sure you hire a professional roofer with a wealth of experience to assist you on the way. So, if you are ready to get started with roof installation but need advice about roofing material, get in touch with Fence & Decks for Less. We can assist you pick the right material and help install the roof easily.
FAQ
Which material is appropriate for roofing sheet?
Polycarbonate and metal are the most appropriate materials for roofing sheets.
Which roofing material has the longest life span?
Slate has the longest life spa and with proper maintenance can live up to 60 years.
