Your roof is leaking, and it’s not just having minor problems. You know that you’re looking at a roof replacement. When you need to replace your roof, what are your options? 

Think About Your Roofing Materials 

There are many different options out there when it comes to roofing materials, but they are not all created equal. For instance, if you have a Mediterranean-style home, clay tiles are beautiful. However, they are also heavy and prone to damage. Metal roofs are amazingly strong and durable, but they are heavy and costly. Wooden shingles provide a rustic look and are lighter than some other options, but they are prone to fires. Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, come in multiple colors, and are lightweight. If you’re looking at shingles, consider what suits your home and what has the durability and safety that you need.

Look at the Color Scheme

Roofing shingles aren’t just all one color. While you might think of black shingles when you think about a new roof, in reality, shingles come in many different tones. You can even create shingle patterns that incorporate multiple shades. If you live in a place where you’d like your roof to blend with the trees, for instance, you can add green-toned shingles to your home. If your housing developing has a lot of reddish tones, you can place orange, brown, or red-toned shingles on your roof. 

Plan for Algae Resistance

If you’re in a climate that tends to lead to a lot of algae growth, consider shingles that have algae resistance added to them. This will allow them to remain algae-free, which can help improve the look of your shingles. You’ll also be less tempted to scrub and spray your roof—excessive roof cleaning can cause damage over time. 

Considering a Lighter Roof

More and more people are turning to lighter-colored roofing options. This is less of a fashion statement and more of an environmental one. According to the Department of Energy, “cool roofs can be made of a highly reflective type of paint, a sheet covering, or highly reflective tiles or shingles.” Light-colored roofing reflects light, which means that your home does not get as hot inside. This can greatly reduce cooling costs during the summer months. As you talk with your roofing contractor, examine whether or not your home would benefit from a lighter-colored roof.

Keep Your Roof Safe 

As you examine your roofing options this year, keep in mind that there’s a lot more to your roof than just your roof. For example, a new gutter can help keep your roof from suffering leaks in the future, and it also protects your home siding and foundation. Adding a gutter heating system will prevent snow and ice from building up in your gutters. This is not only bad for your gutters, it’s also bad for your roof. Ice that makes its way under your shingles can damage your roof by loosening them during freeze-thaw action. Make sure that you not only plan for a new roof but plan for an entire system to keep your home safe this year and for many years to come.

At Harry Helmet, we want you to have a successful roof replacement. Our experienced professional installers will help you consider your best roofing choices. Do you want to know more about your roofing options?  Schedule a free estimate today.

Written by Del Thebaud