What to Look For When Choosing Quality Roofing Materials
Proper roof framing and installation are important for your home’s appearance and safety, but the right roofing material is the deciding factor. When getting your house’s roof installed or updated, choosing a material is a matter of more than just looks. Your contractor can guide you in the decision, but some prior insight can help you find the right contractor and make the right choice.
Along with complementing your house’s style, consider the weather conditions that your roof will face and which materials can hold up, as well as maintenance and installation needs. Heavier roofing is often much hardier, but will require professional installation because of the extra support needed. Lighter materials – synthetic or organic – can be just as sturdy, though keep the local climate and fire codes in mind. Ask your roofing contractor about the options available to make an informed decision.
Clay and slate are popular heavy materials; durable, fireproof, and long-lived with proper care, they can be worth the high upfront cost as they pay for themselves over time by making frequent repairs unnecessary. They also lend your home an elegant look; slate can come in a variety of colors, and clay tiles are the perfect final touch to a Mediterranean, Spanish, or Southwest styled house.
A more rustic look can be completed with metal panels or wood shingles, lending the welcoming air of a cottage or bungalow home. Metal is the more utilitarian option here, resisting fire as well as moisture, and can be dependable in most climates. Wood needs extra care in a wetter climate to prevent rot and mold, but the natural look lends much value to a house.
For lighter roofing materials with a contemporary look, many turn to asphalt or synthetics. Asphalt is ideal for a tight budget and provides reliable protection when reinforced with fiberglass or cellulose, though it’s relatively short-lived among roofing materials. Synthetic roofing – plastic, rubber, or other polymers – can be made to mimic the texture of other materials while keeping its own durability, though some homeowners find traditional materials more dependable for quality.