A new roof is a big investment. Nowadays, with so many styles and types of roofing material available, the task gets a bit challenging.
So to help you pick from possibilities that range from familiar materials to the ones you never knew existed, we have compiled a list to consider while selecting a roofing material.
Some of the roofing materials such as; wood shakes, tiles, and slate, have remained unchanged for centuries. However, a considerable range of other roofing materials have been added over the last couple of decades- from all-time favorite asphalt fiberglass to recent ones like fiber cement, plastic composites, metal, concrete, etc. These newer products have been created with an eye for easy installation, sustainability, lower cost, greater durability, and other features that a homeowner might need.
Roof is the primary protective shield from nature. Hence choosing a material that will protect your home reliably is very critical. The material should be able to hold-up wind, shed rain and snow, and bear the sun rays for many years. Depending upon the climate, orientation, and shape of the roof some materials will work better than others. Therefore, consulting a professional roofer is a must.
This is one of the main consideration while choosing a roofing material. The number of inches the roof rises for every 12 inches of a horizontal ‘run’ is called as roof slope. For instance, a roof that rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of a horizontal run will be considered as “4-in-12 slope”. Most tiles, shingles, and slate-like materials can be used for 4-in-12 slope or a steeper slope roof. However, if the roofs are flat-pitched then it must be topped with seamless materials such sprayed polyurethane foam or built-up-tar and gravel. If this is not done then the roof might leak in case water pools are formed on the surface. Hence, it is advisable to take advice from a roofing company.
By far asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material and is both less expensive and easy to install. However, the choice you make depends upon your budget, you may use more expensive materials such as; wood shingles, clay tiles, steel, or copper. The height, steepness of the roof, and the complexity can affect the labor cost.
Choosing a roofing material that is consistent with the design of your home is a must. For instance, using wood shingles on a Spanish style house may not be a good idea. If you live in a hot climate than consider lighter tones and vice-versa. The roofing companies have experienced professionals who can guide you on some of the best materials according to the design of your home.
If you plan to live for a longer span in the house then choosing an inexpensive material which may not last long is not advisable. You may end up spending as much in roof maintenance and repair in the long run. Therefore, it is always worth to pay for materials that have longer life spans. However, always check the warranty and understand the coverage offered. The roofing company can also advise you on the installation process and fire ratings.
For more information on roofing materials contact us today.