The roof is the most important part of your home. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to keep your family sheltered from wind, rain or pests. Therefore, it is important that you use quality materials to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. Let’s take a look at some options that can look great on your home without breaking your budget.
Wood Shingles
Treated wood shingles can last for 30-80 years in most parts of the country and longer in places of moderate weather. Another advantage is that they have a natural look as the wood is taken right from a tree, trimmed to size and coated before being put on your roof. This means that they retain the markings and patterns that help them to stand out compared to other roofs in the neighborhood.
Finally, they can be placed on your roof either painted or in their original form, which can save time and money. One disadvantage is that they can be susceptible to water and pest damage as they age and if they are not properly treated before being placed on your roof.
Asphalt Shingles
If you want something that can be installed quickly and easily, asphalt shingles are typically your best option. The best part is that you may be able to put a new layer of shingles over an existing one without having to tear them off. However, you should have the roof checked for structural stability before deciding to do so.
Although asphalt shingles are inexpensive and easy to install, they generally have a relatively short useful life. Under normal conditions, you will need to replace them every 20 years. They may also require more maintenance if they are exposed to extremely cold or wet weather.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing can last for about 50 years without a lot of maintenance. It may also help to regulate the temperature inside of your home during the summer as it can reflect excess sunlight.
If you are going to go with a metal roof, make sure that your home can support its weight. It may be necessary to add trusses or otherwise retrofit your home when you go from asphalt or wood shingles to a metal roof. Another potential downfall is that you have to physically take off the roof if you want to repair or replace it in the future.
Slate Tiles
If you live in a state like Arizona or Nevada, there is a good chance that your home has a slate tile or similar type of roof. They are good in hot weather as they are heat and fire resistant, and they can also help to insulate a home. When properly insulated, a home is easier to cool without the need to run the air conditioner all day.
Slate tiles can last for up to 150 years, and tiles can also be recycled if they last longer than the home that they were installed on. One of the drawbacks to a slate roof is that it is expensive to install. If you choose slate tiles, be sure to hire an experienced roofer to install them as it takes a steady hand to do so without damaging the tiles.
When it’s time to replace your roof, there are plenty of options that will help to meet your needs and your budget. Ideally, you will pick something that looks nice and is well suited for the type of environment that you live in.
If you have just finished replacing your roof in order to prepare to sell it, contact us to reveal its hidden beauty and appeal through photography and drone video. Impress prospective buyers and sell your home fast!