The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Roofing Materials
A roof will last for decades. Thus you need to take your time in ensuring that you get the right roofing system and material for your commercial building or home. From clay tiles, concrete roof ridges, concrete roof tiles, to roof tiles and more, the range of these products can be confusing and here’s a guide on how to choose roofing materials to fit your needs.
1. Style
Your property’s style plays a significant role in determining the type of roofing materials that is right for you Metal roofing would not be ideal for 60’s ranch house while a Spanish-styled home wouldn’t match with wood shingles. Choose a roofing material which is consistent with the architectural design of your property.
If you don’t like the original material, you still have the option of choosing a product which imitates the original roof. For example, there are fiber cement shingles which appear like slate or wood while some concrete and metal products look like wood or tile. Ensure that the product you choose sounds like the original roof for consistency with your house’s design even if the material is different.
2. Cost
Roof materials range from relatively affordable to extremely expensive. Shingles made from a composition of fiberglass and asphalt are the most common because they are the least costly to buy as well as install. It is essential that you consider the cost of buying and that of installing before buying the roof. Installation costs vary depending on the material, height, steepness, and complexity of the roof.
3. Durability and Longevity
In most cases, the material’s price is an excellent determinant of its durability. Inexpensive materials last for a shorter duration as they are not sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear that comes with exposure to natural elements such as rain and sun. It is good to consider the price and longevity of the material as you may not be saving anything if you buy inexpensive equipment that will require to be replaced after a few years. Replacing a roof is expensive, and it comes with disruption of day to day activities. It is wise to pay more for roof products made from materials that have a longer life span.
4. Weight
The material’s weight affects installation. Light materials are more natural to load and handle during installation than heavier ones. The structural framing of a particular roof is designed to handle up to a certain amount of weight. A material which, together with the substructure, exceeds this weight will require you to reinforce the framing. This means that you will have to spend more money and time.
In the end, the right roof should protect your household. Choosing the ideal material and expert to ensure the job is effectively carried out gives the property a long-life, durable, cost-effective, and aesthetically appealing roof.