At Revive Restoration, we have crafted our business to help customers determine how to choose the right roofing material. We provide excellent communication to our customers throughout the entire restoration process. We understand how stressful it can be for homeowners when their roof experiences storm damage.
How to choose the right roofing material
From artificial materials such as asphalt, plastic polymers, and sheet metal to natural materials like slate and wood, there are more and more roofing styles to choose from each passing day. Each has its benefits and limitations. So, how do you choose the right roofing material?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right type of proofing, including:
- How much does it cost?
- Do the materials have fire resistance?
- Is the type of roofing allowed by the local rules and regulations?
- Will the look go with the style of the house?
- Is the material too heavy for the existing framing?
- How long will it last?
- Is the material strong enough to withstand natural calamities like hurricanes and storms?
Some roofing types may be better for your house than others. Below is an overview of the things to consider when choosing a roofing material.
Budget
A new roof will always be an investment. As with any home improvement project, you must consider the budget when picking a roofing material. If you’re looking to save money or have a tight budget, an asphalt shingle roof might be your best bet. However, if you don’t have to worry about budget, you have more flexibility to choose a metal roof or a tile roof, amongst other roofing materials.
Insurance companies may or may not cover claims for roof damage. Responsible homeowners have an insurance policy that covers unexpected property damage. Understandably, an insurance policy does not cover all types of damage.
If your roof is damaged, you should contact your insurance provider immediately to determine if they will cover the replacement cost. You can choose the best roofing system available if the insurance company covers the cost. However, you need to consider your budget if the insurance company will not cover the damage.
To learn more about homeowners’ insurance, read our article on whether insurance should cover the cost of roof replacement.
Warranty
When investing in a roofing system, you expect to get as much use as possible. It is best to always go for the roofing material with a good warranty. Even though you may need to pay more upfront, you’ll be thankful when your investment pays off.
Asphalt shingles usually have a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years. Wood shakes have a lifespan of over 30 years and can get up to 50 years, depending on the area’s weather conditions.
Roof slope
To narrow down the list of viable roofing materials, pay attention to the slope of your roof. The ability of your roof to drain water will also be a deciding factor. Asphalt shingles are popular because many American residential roofs have a steep slope.
The steeper the slope, the more material will be required for roofing. If you have a flat roof, you will need to choose a roofing material that is more resistant to water damage.
Weight
The weight of the roofing material can affect the cost and timeline. If you choose a roofing material heavier than the existing roof, some structural changes may be necessary to ensure your home can support the extra weight.
Remember, as the building ages, it starts to lose its strength. For houses built a while ago, it is better to reduce the pressure exerted on the building by choosing a light roofing material.
Maintenance requirements
How much will it cost to maintain the roof? What does regular maintenance involve? How often will you require the services of roofing contractors? Consider all these questions when choosing the right roofing material.
Home design
Your choice of roofing material will also depend on the architectural design of your house. For example, architectural shingles are flexible and can suit any design, whereas clay tiles and wood shingles are more suitable for an antique-style home. Whatever roofing material you choose should blend in with the design of your house and the wall color.
Roofing application
Consider whether your roof is being applied on a brand new structure, used as a replacement roof, or as an addition to an existing roof. You have more options with a new roof because existing roof materials and slopes do not limit you. An additional roof also limits you because it must go well with the existing roof.
Energy efficiency
A good roof can help you save money on your energy bills. Certain roofing materials like asphalt shingles and metal reflect the sun’s heat away from the house rather than absorbing and transmitting the heat to the attic and the rest of the house. With a cool roof, your AC will not need to work overtime to decrease the temperature. This can have a good impact on your energy bills.
Need an expert to help with your roofing needs?
If you need a guide on choosing the right roofing material, reach out to Revive Restoration today. We offer storm damage repair, gutter installation, solar roofing, insulation, and roofing services. We understand how stressful it can be when your roof gets damaged unexpectedly.
Our team will help you make the best decisions about style, design, and materials that work best with your budget and provide the best value for money. What are you waiting for? Contact us today and request a quote for the best restoration services.
