The roof of your home is essential to keeping bad weather and animals outside where they belong. A good roof helps your home regulate temperature, minimize outdoor sounds, and adds to the exterior beauty of the house too! There are a wide variety of roofing materials to choose from. From traditional asphalt shingles to more modern options like slate and concrete, there’s a roofing material to fit any home and budget. Keep these factors in mind when you’re deciding what roofing material is right for your home!
Local Climate
Certain roofing materials are more suitable for harsh climates than others. If your home is located somewhere that sees harsh winters, heavy rain, and wind, you need a material that can withstand those conditions. Slate is known to be durable against wind and rain but doesn’t do as well in winter climates. Asphalt shingles are a great option if you live in a harsh climate. Some shingles may blow off overtime if there’s a bad windstorm but replacing just the affected shingles is easy and affordable.
Durability and Lifespan of the Roof
Getting a new roof is expensive to say the least. Consider the durability and expected lifespan of the roofing material before deciding on a roofing option. Asphalt roofs can last around 30 years with proper maintenance, while slate and concrete can last over double that time in the right climate! Choosing a material that’s cheap at the time of installation can actually cost you more in the long run if it needs to be replaced after only 15 or 20 years.
Installation and Repairs
Roofing materials that are heavier are more difficult to install and repair. The harder something is the install, the higher the labor costs will be. Choosing a material that’s easier for contractors to install will keep installation labor costs low and make for cheap repairs in the future too!
Aesthetics
Once you’ve considered all of the practical aspects of your new roof, don’t forget to consider how it’s going to look on the home too. Choose a material that pairs well with your siding and the design style of the home. Some roofing materials even come in a variety of colors and shingle shapes!
If you’re interested in installing a new roof on your home, the first step should be a consult with an experienced roofing contractor in your area. Always hire a contractor that’s licensed, insured, and has the customer’s best interest in mind. A roofing contractor will be able to look at your specific home, location, design, and desired budget to determine what roofing material will be the best fit. Contact Pro Exteriors today to schedule a consultation with a trusted roofing expert in the Delaware area!