When the weather inside is leaky, you know that a roof replacement is in order. Over time, fallen branches, wind, sun, rain, and ice all take their toll on your roof. You can replace sections of your roof, but after a while, you decide that it’s time for a full roof replacement. What roofing is best for your home?

What Kind of Roof Will Suit Your Home?

Although you might think of a roof as a way to protect your home from the elements, it’s also a significant part of your home’s curb appeal. Each roof brings a different aesthetic to your home. For a cottage or heritage home, wood shingles add a natural look. Metal has a more modern feel. Concrete and plastic shingles can look like slate or wood, giving more durability while maintaining the aesthetic you’re seeking. If you want your roof to make a statement, consider what look you want and then look at the cost and durability of the potential materials.

What Roof Can Your Home Hold?

You’ll also need to consider the structural aspects of any roofing product. For example, you may want clay tile for your Mediterranean-inspired home, but clay tiles are very heavy. You might think that slate is a good option for your natural yet luxurious home, but without roof reinforcements, plastic could be a better option. Choices such as asphalt and wood are fairly lightweight, making them easy to install without additional reinforcement.

What Roof Suits Your Home Budget?

Cost is also a factor when you’re looking at a new roof. A roof replacement is a significant project, which is why new owners often look to see if your roof has been redone before they decide whether they’re going to buy. If you’re looking at lower-cost roofing options, asphalt shingles are a good choice. Plastic polymer, wooden shakes, and concrete tile are moderately-priced options. Roofs such as copper or slate are suitable for luxury homes and are more expensive.

How Long Will Your Roof Last?

Roofs have different life spans. When you install your new roof, ask about the typical lifespan of your roofing product. For example, Owens Corning shingles are guaranteed for at least 20 years and often last up to 50 years.

Asphalt shingles may not last as long as a metal roof, but these roofs are relatively easy to repair. Plastic polymer roofs can be relatively durable, but they can also crack. Look at the particular hazards to roofs in your area and ask specific questions about the roof’s resistance to wind, sun, rain, and disasters such as fire.

When you are looking at a roof, don’t forget to check the company’s history and the company’s warranty. A roofing company should have a long history of satisfied customers and the installers need to have extensive experience in the field. Choose roofing experts instead of roofing amateurs, and your roofing project will go more smoothly and last longer. Look for a roofing warranty that covers materials and performance and is transferable to new owners.

Are you looking for a roof replacement? Harry Helmet can help you make that choice. Contact us for an estimate and let our experienced installers work with you to add a new roof to your home.

Written by Del Thebaud