Whether you’re building the home of your dreams or looking to make your existing home look better, choosing the type of roof shingles can be difficult. Many people don’t realize there are lots of options available and instead choose asphalt shingles by instinct since it’s been the most popular for residential houses.
There are many factors that you should consider before choosing your shingles. We’ll examine the best methods to use in choosing the types of roof shingles for your home.
1. Choose Roof Shingles That Fit Your Home Style
There are many different styles of home and not all roof shingles go with every style. For example, if you have a ranch-style home then a metal roofing material wouldn’t likely go with it. Also, a Spanish style hacienda home wouldn’t look right with wood shingles.
Shingles can come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials, but they must fit naturally with the style of the home or else it could be an expensive eyesore.
2. Impacts on Roofing Materials
If you live in a part of the country that has a near year-long summer where shingles get hit with powerful rays of the sun, then you’ll want a roofing material that can literally take the heat.
If you live in an area that sees harsh fall and spring storms and freezing winters, then you’ll need a material that can handle the wind and cold temperatures.
This directly impacts the type of roofing material you should use. If you get lots of rain, then a material that easily and quickly lets water flow down is ideal. If you live in a hot dry area then concrete, slate, and other materials help protect against fire.
3. Durability Vs. Temporary
If you don’t plan on living in the house long or don’t want to put a lot of money into the roof, then you can choose less expensive shingles that will protect your home but won’t last forever. Generally, the more expensive the materials, the longer it will protect your home.
If you plan on living there for a long time, then choose a more expensive and durable material that you won’t have to worry about for many years to come.
4. Can Your Roof Support the Weight?
Asphalt shingles are light, and most roofs can handle the weight with no problem, but slate and concrete are heavier and may need additional support.
Before choosing, ask the roofer if your roof can handle heavier roofing materials. If it can’t ask them if there is anything that could be done to remedy the situation.
5. How Easy Are They to Install?
Roofing tiles take more time to install than standard asphalt and that means there will be additional labor costs. Don’t forget to take into account how easy or difficult the materials are to install on your roof.
You may think the cost of the roofing material is fine, but don’t consider the labor involved with installing them.
Choose the Best for Your Home
Roof shingles are not only an important part of protecting your home but also the overall look and curb appeal as well. A great looking roof can be the envy of all your neighbors, so choose your roofing materials well.
If you want more information on types of roofing materials or want to schedule a free estimate, then please contact us today.
