Your roof’s longevity is primarily dictated by the kind of roofing material you settle for and the quality of installation workmanship. A fundamental element you must evaluate before you kick off that roofing project is the roofing material you will use. To help you out, here are 10 factors to consider when choosing a roofing material.
1. Your region’s climate
Roofs play a critical role in protecting your property from adverse weather conditions. Since every region has unique climatic conditions, you need to consult with a roofing contractor like Landmark Roofing about the best roofing material to use. Typically, hotter areas do better with materials that do not trap heat, while colder regions require those with excellent insulation.
2. The material’s lifespan
While new roofs are expected to last for at least two decades, some roofing materials last longer than others. In turn, you need to evaluate why you are undertaking the roofing project and how long you plan to stay in the house before selling it. For example, a shingle roof is expected to last for between 25 and 30 years with proper maintenance, while copper and steel can last for 40 years.
3. Energy efficiency
Roofing materials play a major role in dictating your house’s energy efficiency since they dictate how hot or cold your indoor space will be at different times of the year. Some materials such as asphalt shingles and metal will reflect the sun instead of absorbing the heat, making your house cooler. In turn, your HVAC will not have to work too hard to cool down your home during those hot months. If you live in colder regions, your best bet would be to go for roofing materials that provide better insulation and are strong enough to withstand heavy storms and strong winds.
4. Your home’s design
It is highly recommended that you find a roof that perfectly suits your home’s design to avoid embarrassing failures. As such, the architectural style of your home must be a top priority when choosing the best roofing material that will enhance the appeal of your home. To avoid taking chances, make it a priority to consult with your architecture or trustworthy roofing contractor on the best roofing options that will suit your home’s design.
5. The expected roof slope and pitch
If you are installing a new roof, attention must be paid to the expected roof slope and pitch, a primary factor that roofers use to determine the best roofing material for a building. Even with the growing demand for eco-friendly roofs, you need to assess whether your building style works best with a steep or flat-pitched roof and how this will suit your long-term plans.
6. Required underlayment
Depending on where you live and the type of roofing material you choose, you will require specific underlayment materials. Therefore, you need to consider the kind of underlayment recommended for use with different roofing materials and how it will impact your overall budget. Remember, your roof’s underlayment is meant to provide a secondary layer of protection, and you must never skimp on the quality of materials you use.
7. State building codes
Most states have established their unique building codes that might restrict you from using certain types of roofing materials. This mostly affects states heavily affected by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or forest fires. In addition to your state’s building codes, you will also need to factor in the local municipality requirements and residential building covenants.
8. Aesthetics
A roof is the crown of a home, and it should be among the catchiest elements of your house. Consequently, it is only right to consider how a specific roofing material will look after it is installed. As such, you need to evaluate the range of roof colors and finishing options that each roofing material offers.
9. Maintenance requirements
The only way to make your roof last for decades is through proper maintenance. Still, you have to pre-anticipate the maintenance requirements of the roofing material you settle for as some options require more attention. This translates to more maintenance costs and the risks of costly repairs should you neglect your roof for an extended period.
10. Your budget
Roofing projects are never cheap, whether you have to put up a new roof or restore an old one. This calls for serious consideration about your manageable budget against the quotes provided by roofing contractors for different roofing types. On average, roofing materials such as asphalt shingles are considered more affordable than others like metal roofs and slate.
Note: If you cannot afford to meet the cost of roofing your home, you can consider favorable financing options to avoid settling for low-quality options or overstraining your family’s finances.
Endnote
Choosing a roofing material can be quite challenging, but with the help of a competent roofing contractor and these tips, you will easily select the best option for your property.