Choosing the right roofing material can make all the difference in durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. However, with the numerous options available on the market, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the six essential factors when choosing a roofing material. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a roofing material.
By the end of this read, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for and what questions to ask to make an informed decision about your roofing materials.
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The cost of the roofing material and your budget
Cost is an important factor to consider when selecting a roofing material. While all roofing materials tend to cost significantly, their prices still vary depending on the type of material you choose.
Hence, the first thing you need to do is determine your budget. How much are you willing to spend on your roof at that time? When you can figure this out, it becomes easier to narrow down your options.
If you want the most affordable options, you should consider buying asphalt shingle roofs. They are affordable, popular, and efficient. But if you have bigger plans, you can consider buying premium roofing materials that offer more benefits.
Though they are more expensive than regular roofing materials, they are worth it as they offer superior durability and longevity. Just ensure to research the brand you want to buy from.
You can also consult with your roofing specialist for guidance on the best type of roofing materials to buy.
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The lifespan of the roofing material and the warranty you get on it
When choosing a roofing material, it’s important to consider both the lifespan of the material and the warranty you’ll receive on it.
Different roofing materials come with different types of material warranties. For example, all three types of asphalt shingles have a warranty on the materials themselves, which is typically 25 to 30 years.
However, some warranties tend to cover more years. For instance, architectural and luxury asphalt shingles offer an enhanced 50-year non-prorated warranty option. A steel standing seam metal roof often comes with a 30-year warranty.
Meanwhile, composite shingle roofs usually come with a lifetime limited material warranty that will prorate after several years.
Natural materials like cedar shake or slate don’t come with a material warranty since they aren’t made by a manufacturer. In this case, you’ll need to rely solely on your roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty if any problems arise.
Aside from the warranty, it’s also important to consider the material’s lifespan. Some materials have a lifespan of only two decades or less, while others can last much longer.
It’s important to determine your plans before making a decision. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, investing in a roof that can last longer may be a better choice.
However, if you plan to sell the house shortly, you may not need to invest as much in a new roof.
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The aesthetic appeal the roof material offers to your home in general
It’s important that any roofing material you intend to buy matches the aesthetic appeal of your home. Generally, installing a new roof can improve your home’s appearance, but doing so with the right roofing materials does better justice.
If you want to make your home stand out, you need to choose a material that complements the design of your home. Search for roofing materials that complement your home’s design and other features.
For example, clay roof tiles suit Spanish and Japanese-style buildings well.
It’s also important to consider the architectural style of your building. Your choice of roofing material should complement the architectural style of your home to create a beautiful and cohesive look.
When you follow this guide, you will be able to choose a roofing material that not only protects your home but also enhances its overall appearance.
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Local and community building codes
It is important to consider the local and community building codes in your area. Building codes are laws and regulations that dictate the standards for construction in a particular area.
They may include specific rules regarding the type of materials that can be used in roofing. If you fail to adhere to these codes, you can get fined, and your structure may even be removed.
Additionally, some gated communities may have construction rules that must be followed. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the building codes in your area before choosing a roofing material to avoid potential legal issues.
By doing so, you can ensure that your roofing project complies with local regulations while protecting your home.
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How much maintenance the roofing material needs
Just like your machinery needs regular oiling, your roof needs periodic maintenance to ensure it remains in good condition. Every roofing material requires maintenance at some point, but the frequency of maintenance varies depending on the material.
You should consider how often you want to worry about getting maintenance inspections. For instance, asphalt shingles, composite shingles, and cedar shakes require annual maintenance inspections to ensure they remain in good condition.
On the other hand, standing seam roofs require virtually no maintenance after installation, but it’s still advisable to be checked biannually. Although some materials may be costly, they may require little to no maintenance in the future.
Always research the time and effort needed to maintain the roof, and consider yearly maintenance to maximize your roof investment.
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Energy Efficiency
It’s important to consider the energy efficiency of your options. Some materials, like asphalt shingles and metal, can reflect the sun’s heat away from the attic instead of absorbing and transferring it into the home.
This can help reduce the burden on your cooling system, resulting in lower energy bills. Additionally, certain roofing materials, such as the Balinese Shakes Stone Coated Metal Roof, can withstand extreme weather conditions and benefit energy efficiency.
Although metal roofing materials are resistant to wind, weather, and fire, they tend to get extremely hot, so they are not very energy efficient.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when selecting a roofing material – from cost and local weather that may affect performance to the aesthetic value that makes the home look more attractive. It’s key to remember things like maintenance, lifespan, and warranties. Remember, different materials have different advantages, and you should be making your decision on which is best for you to choose depending on your needs.
That said, no matter which material you pick, it’s essential to hire a qualified, experienced contractor with a good reputation, such as Roofpro, who can provide professional installation or replacement of any roofing style. So don’t put it off any longer – contact our roofing experts at Roofpro today for expert roofing installation, repairs, and maintenance.