The roof of your home should protect your house from the elements, help keep out the cold in winter and the heat in summer and improve the aesthetics of your house. With a number of materials now on the market, homeowners may be confused about which materials are best and which ones could cause problems down the road. Roofing contractors often have an opinion about which kind is best depending upon a number of features, including cost, durability, beauty and value. If you aren’t sure what kind of roof you want installed, keep the following information in mind.
Natural Materials Such As Slate Or Wood Shakes
There’s an unmistakable appeal to using natural roof materials such as slate or wood shakes. They have natural striations and irregularities that add depth and character to your home, but there are some concerns. With wood shakes, you’ll discover that the weather can quickly wear out, warp and split the wood, leading to costly repairs or replacement after as little as ten to fifteen years. If you’re set on having wood shakes on your home, be sure to talk to roofing contractors who are familiar with the material and can install them properly for optimal lifespan.
Slate overcomes this problem because it is a natural stone that can last for fifty years or more while showing little or no wear. While slate is exceptionally attractive and has an Old World charm, it is also extremely heavy. You’ll need a roofing company that can How To Identify My Roof Tiles reinforce the support beams properly to hold up the weight of the slate. The down side to the natural beauty of slate is that it is a poor insulator, so be sure to add extra insulation under the eaves and in your attic in order to keep electricity costs down.
Metal Makes A Comeback
Before asphalt shingles became the most popular products on the market, a metal roof was the most common choice. It’s easy to install and comes in large sections with fewer seams to worry about. Consequently, you don’t have as many places where leaks or ice dams could cause problems beneath the surface. It’s also completely fireproof, making it ideal for homes in areas that are frequently threatened by forest fires. Metal can last for seventy-five or even a hundred years with little or no maintenance, and it’s easy to paint in just about any color. The cost of metal can be prohibitive for some people, but they should consider the price over time, which can make it more affordable since it lasts so long.
Roofing Contractors Recommend The What Is The Peak Of A Roof Called Versatility Of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles continue to be a favorite with many home improvement professionals due to their durability, attractiveness and easy installation. Most contractors agree that shingles successfully strike a balance between cost, efficiency and style, appealing to nearly every budget and most homeowners’ style preferences. Asphalt shingles continue to be affordable and they now come in an impressive array of colors, styles and profiles to give added depth to your home. Many use shadowing or sculptural designs to mimic the more expensive look of slate or wood while retaining the long life expected of asphalt shingles. Roofing contractors can easily replace or repair damaged asphalt shingles, so the cost of maintenance is minimal. Improved materials mean that today’s asphalt shingles are lightweight and durable while remaining affordable for every homeowner.
If you still aren’t sure what material is best for your roof, you can talk to a roofing company in your area to learn more about the various options available from local roofing contractors. They will also be able to show you samples of each product they install and help you choose the ideal material for your home.
