When building a home, there are a couple of things that are essential to get right. You need to ensure that you have a proper foundation so that your home doesn’t collapse. You need to properly install wiring and plumbing so that there are no issues. And you need to choose the right roofing material so that you can sufficiently protect your home. But, how are you supposed to know which roofing material is suited for your home? Well, that is what we’re here to find out.
Choose the right roofing material for your house
At first glance, it might seem that choosing the roofing material only boils down to cost vs. utility. The more money you spend, the better your roof will be, right? Well, not quite. To make the right choice for your home, you need to consider a couple of aspects, including the cost efficiency of your roof.
Weight
Not every roof can be safely placed on every home. Due to structural integrity, or lack thereof, your home might not be able to support certain types of roofing material. Older homes, in particular, tend to be less structurally sound, which is why you need to consider how much your roof will weigh before making your choice.
Not all homes can support the same weight. So, this is essential to consider before you can choose the right roofing material.
Home design
The role of your roof is not only to protect your home but also to make it more beautiful. While practicality is important, you also need to keep the design of your home in mind and how your roof will alter your curb appeal. For instance, tiles are a good choice for antique houses. While asphalt shingles are better suited for modern ones. If your home’s exterior is painted in warm colors, you might consider using a cooler shade for your roof to add some contracts. On the other hand, if your home is cool-toned, your roof should be warm. A good idea here is to consult a professional home designer or go online and see how different roofs are paired with other homes.
Local climate
One of the critical factors to consider when picking the roofing material is your local climate. In fact, the local climate is the main reason why there isn’t a “best roofing material” out there and why every homeowner needs to consider their needs. If you live in hotter climates, materials like slate, concrete, or terracotta are your best bet. For colder climates with harsh winters, we recommend going with slate, asphalt shingles, or metal. These materials trap heat, which makes your home much more energy-efficient. So, even if they seem more expensive at first glance, certain materials can be much more cost-efficient in the long run. Also, if you are considering energy efficiency, don’t forget that the design of your home is just as important as the materials you use to build it.
It would be best if you considered the local climate to choose the suitable roofing material.
Cost
Whether you are installing a new roof or replacing a preexisting one, doing so is going to cost you. Your home’s structure, the materials you use, the brand that you get them from, and the overall quality will all play a role in how much your roof will cost. Thus, installing a roof can range from $1,500 to $30,000.
But, it is essential to mention that installing a roof is a long-term investment. A good roof can last you for decades, while a poorly structured one may need reparations within a year or two. So, always think of long-term costs when picking your roofing material.
Copying the neighbors
If you’ve just moved to a new area and need to install a new roof, it can be hard to consider all the crucial aspects. Especially if you have moved long distance and don’t know the climate that well. There will be a lot to get used to, so if you have managed to arrange the simplest possible relocation, you will have more energy to dedicate to your roofing project. Still, it will be necessary to get used to the local climate and learn how your roof can help you mitigate its downsides. So, what people tend to do is look at what their neighbors are using. Of course, your neighbors might not have made the right choice, especially if they installed their roofs decades ago. But, informing yourself on why they are using a specific type of roofing material will at least drive your thought process in the right direction.
If all the homes in your area have the same roof, there is probably a good reason behind it.
Different types of roofing material
Before we finish, let’s elaborate on the most common types of roofing material used in the U.S.
Asphalt shingles
4 out of 5 homes in the U.S. use asphalt shingles as a roofing material. The reason for this is that they are sturdy, easy to replace, and quite budget-friendly. With them, you also have many design options, as they come in various styles. This is why we recommend using asphalt shingles if you want the freedom to make your home look as you wish. Also, if your priority is cost-effectiveness and ease of installment.
Slate
High-end slate roofs are practically indestructible. They provide natural insulation and are stylistically perfectly suited for modern homes. However, the potential downside is that they are heavy. Both on your budget and your home. So, if you can afford to have one, you should definitely consider using slate.
Metal
Metal roofs can range wildly in quality and cost. If you can afford a decent one, metal roofs can work surprisingly well as they are fire-resistant and easy to repair. They can also give your home a modern look. The potential downside is that they can be noisy during rain. Also, hail can put dents on your roof, which you will have to repair regularly to prevent ice dams from accumulating.
Clay
For a more traditional home, clay is an obvious choice. Clay tiles come in a wide range of colors and designs, so you can pick the one that suits your home best. Quality tiles are pretty durable and resistant to fire, wind, and impact. The potential downside is that they can be expensive and brittle. So, you may need to invest in maintaining them.
As you can see, there is a lot to consider before you choose the right roofing material for your home. Still, we hope we have made it a bit easier for you to make an informed decision.
