The thought of finding the right roofing material for your house can be daunting.
Let’s face it, there’s an abundance of roofing material types out there, and each of them claims to be the “best.” However, here’s the hard truth…
Selecting the wrong roofing material can put you in for unnecessary thousands of dollars in repairs and replacement in the future. Considering 92% of homeowners say their roof is in the top three of their home improvement priorities, it is even more important to ensure you make the right choice.
The good news is…
Learning about your roofing options can be made simple. Once you understand the things to consider when it comes to roofing materials, the best option for your home becomes glaringly obvious.
In this post, you’ll discover:
- The significance of your roofing material
- The most common roofing materials and their advantages
- Factors to consider when picking the right roofing material for your home
- Expert tips on material recommendations and selection
Why Your Roofing Material Is More Important Than You Realize
Your roofing material may just be the most vital part of your home.
Your roof protects everything from harsh rain, intense winds, falling snow, and searing summer temperatures. However, not all roofing materials are created equal. Some will last you for up to 15 years, while others can protect your house for 50+ years.
Consider this…
When looking up Grosse Pointe roofing services, you will soon realize that choosing the right material matters. It has a great impact on the overall cost of your roofing project and the long-term value it will add to your home. Finding a Grosse Pointe based roofing company that has a strong understanding of the local weather and architecture will guide you on the materials that will perform well in your region and make your roofing experience seamless.
The right roofing material also impacts your home’s energy efficiency, curb appeal, and resale value. Over 60% of homeowners opt to upgrade their roofs because of damage or aging rather than appearance. This is an indication that you need to pick a durable roofing material.
Asphalt Shingles: The Popular Choice
The asphalt shingles roofing material is by far the most common type of residential roofing material, and for a very good reason.
They are cost-effective, versatile, and relatively easy to work with. In fact, 75% of North American homes have asphalt shingles roofing. This makes it the most popular roofing material.
Here are a few more reasons homeowners are loyal to asphalt shingles:
- Cheaper upfront costs compared to other roofing materials
- Variety of styles and colors to choose from
- Performs well in most regions
- Easy repairs when damaged
On the flip side, asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than some other roofing materials. A high-quality asphalt shingle can last you for 20 to 25 years. It also underperforms in extreme conditions such as heatwaves and strong winds if not installed correctly.
The truth is, for most people, asphalt shingles offer a great balance between performance and cost.
Metal Roofing: Built to Last
Metal roofing may be what you need if you are looking for a roofing material that will outlast most other materials by a long mile.
Metal roofs are known to last for 40-70 years with little to no maintenance required. They are also fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and are able to stand against harsh weather where other materials would be damaged.
The unique heat-reflecting properties of metal roofing will also help to keep your home cool during summer. Metal roofs are also lightweight, which does not put additional pressure on your home’s structure.
Here are a few downsides to metal roofing:
- Cost more upfront compared to asphalt roofing
- Can get noisy during heavy rain and hailstorms
- Installation needs to be done by professionals
- The roofing can get dented when hit by large hailstones
However, if you plan on staying in the house for a long time, the high durability of metal roofing justifies the upfront costs.
Tile Roofing: The Premium Option
Tile roofing is known for its exceptional elegance and can last a very long time.
Tile roofing made from clay or concrete can last for 50-100 years. They are also naturally resistant to fire, rot, and insect infestation. They are also great for temperature regulation indoors.
Tile roofing works best on Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture or Mission-style homes. The unique aesthetics of tile roofing significantly adds value to a home’s curb appeal.
There are two downsides to tile roofing:
- Tile roofs are generally heavy, and the house’s structure must support the added weight
- Tile roofing is expensive and requires professional roofing companies that are experienced in tile roofing installation
Tile roofing is an excellent option for homes that have the right architectural design and homeowners that can afford to pay the premium.
Slate Roofing: The Ultimate Investment
Slate roofing is the epitome of durability when it comes to roofing materials.
Slate roofs are natural stone roofing material that can easily last you over 100 years. They are also resistant to fire and are environmentally friendly. These roofing materials also require little to no maintenance.
When it comes to aesthetics, the natural beauty of slate roofs is unmatched, as each tile comes in unique color variations and textures that add character and an expensive look to your roof.
The cons of slate roofing are:
- Extremely expensive to install
- Slate is also heavy, and your home must support the additional weight
- Repairing slate roofing requires specialized skills
- It is easy to damage slate tiles if someone is walking on them
If you are a homeowner who has the budget and you are looking for a truly permanent roofing solution, slate roofing can work for you. Slate roofing is also an excellent choice for old or historical homes and premium properties.
How to Choose the Right Material
Selecting the right roofing material for your home is not as complicated as it may seem.
You simply need to consider a few factors.
- What is your budget for the initial roofing installation and long-term maintenance?
- How long do you plan on living in your current house?
- What kinds of harsh weather conditions does your home need to withstand?
- Does your home’s structure support the weight of heavier materials such as tile and slate roofing?
- What is the architectural design of your house?
Get multiple quotes from reputable roofing companies and contractors, ask about material warranties, roofing installation timelines, and how long the material will last. Your roofing contractor can help you understand your options and recommend the most suitable materials for your specific requirements. Keep in mind your local building codes, and any homeowners association guidelines.
Most importantly, do not compromise on quality just because the material or roofing company is cheaper. Cut corners, and you will find yourself shelling more money in the future through repairs, early replacement, and potential interior damages.
Bottom Line on Roofing Materials
Choosing the right roofing material for your home is an important decision every homeowner will make.
Asphalt shingles roofing is a great option that is both affordable and versatile. Metal roofing is one of the most durable roofing materials with excellent energy-efficiency. Tile roofing may be the priciest of all roofing materials, but it is also one of the most premium roofing options with unbeatable longevity. Slate roofing is by far the ultimate investment for those looking for a truly permanent roofing material.
Every material has its advantages and disadvantages, and the right one for you will largely depend on your budget, architectural design, and the features you want. It is also important to work with the right contractor that can help guide you through the process and work with you in making a choice you will be satisfied with for years to come.
The roof of your home is more important than you think. It protects all the things you care about in your home. Getting it right is worth the investment.
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