When it's time for a roof replacement, you might want the same type of roof you have now. However, you may want something different, especially since there are many options in residential roofing. Here are five things to consider when choosing the material for your new roof.
1.The Slope Of Your Roof
Homes with steep roofs have a lot more options for roofing materials than homes with low slopes or flat roofs. That's because of drainage. Rain rolls off the roof when the slope is steep, and it may pond on a flat roof. Plus, water that doesn't roll off quickly can back up and seep under shingles and tiles. Roofs with steep slopes commonly use asphalt shingles, metal, or tile. Flat roofs often use membranes or built-up roofing.
2. Your Climate
Most types of roofing are suitable in nearly all climates, but some roofing materials are better matches than others for certain climates and environments. Metal might be a good choice if your home is in an area that sees wildfires and storms since metal is so durable. Clay tiles are popular in southern states in both dry and wet climates because the tiles keep homes cooler and allow water vapor to escape.
Asphalt shingles are common nearly everywhere, and you can match the grade of shingles to your climate. For instance, you might want the highest grade shingles in places that have hailstorms so your home has the best protection against impacts.
3. The Architecture Of Your House
If you have a historic house, you may need to match the roof to your home's architecture and use roofing popular for the time period in which your home was built. You may not want a metal roof on a home built in the 1800s, but you might want metal on a cabin in a wooded setting.
Clay and slate tiles are good matches for homes with Spanish, Mediterranean, and European architecture. Ranch homes can use nearly any type of roofing. You may want advice from your roof replacement contractor when matching the roofing material to your home.
4. Your Neighborhood Roofs
Houses are usually built in the same time period in subdivisions. The houses often use the same building materials, so all houses have the same roofs. You may be required by your HOA to get a certain type of new roof, or you may just want a roof that matches others in your neighborhood so a different look won't affect the value of your home when you put it on the market.
5. Your Yard Conditions
Also, think about the conditions in your yard. If you have a lot of trees that shade your roof, you may want roofing that resists algae growth. If your roof is in full sun all day, you may want roofing that reflects the sun and keeps your home cooler. Let your contractor know your concerns so they can help you choose the right roofing or the right asphalt shingles for your roof replacement. Ask about shingles when getting a roof replacement.
