A roofing system is a big investment. It protects your home from the elements and preserves its structural integrity. Of course, you want something that is budget-friendly. However, to get the most out of your curb appeal cost shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. If you are in the market for a new roof, here are some things to consider before choosing a roofing material.
Will You be Staying or Moving?
If you intend to stay in your home for 20 or more years, a roof that is durable and long-lasting will be a good return on investment (ROI). On the other hand, if you don’t intend on living in the residence on a long-term basis, selecting a more budget-friendly roofing material might be a better plan.
Architectural Style of Your Home
The material you select for the roof should match or complement the architectural style of your home. For a general guideline take into account the following:
- Cedar shingles, cedar shakes, and wood shingles on traditional style homes
- Asphalt shingles on traditional and contemporary homes
- Ceramic tile roofs for historic homes and Mediterranean design houses
- Metal roofing on modern and contemporary houses
While many home styles are compatible with an asphalt shingle roof, keep in mind that not all roofing products work for all homes.
New, Replacement or Other?
Why is the new roof being installed? If the roofing system is for a new residence being custom-built, the material selection process will be different from when replacing the roof on your existing home or purchasing a new roof for an addition. Homeowners choosing a new roof have more choices because they do not have to consider matching the roofing material to existing exterior finishing elements. However, a homeowner selecting a roofing material for a replacement roof or a roof being installed on a new addition has to ensure that it matches in colour components such as trim, entry doors, and siding.
How much does it Weigh?
Because they are heavier than asphalt shingles, for example, roof materials such as concrete, clay, and slate tiles can add weight to a roof’s structure. When choosing a replacement roof, before making a final decision, ensure that the existing structure will be able to support a slate roof.
Your Local Climate and Microclimate
In order to function optimally, the material of a new roof should be able to adapt and withstand its surrounding environment. If the house is near an ocean or in an area that receives a lot of rain or has tall trees growing close to your home, choose a roofing material that will be able to handle moisture and is resistant to mold, moss, mildew, and algae. It’s crucial to take into consideration the effects that both local climate and microclimate will have on your roof.
Energy Efficiency
Especially if you’re purchasing a new roof in today’s competitive housing market, you will want to select an energy-efficient roofing material. The benefits of energy efficiency roofing are air is prevented from entering and/or escaping (lower utility bills); promotes natural ventilation; extends its lifespan (keeps materials out of landfills longer).
Sustainability
Sustainable roofing materials are good for the environment, especially if it is both manufactured eco-responsibly and can be completely recycled when it reaches the end of its lifespan. Check provincial rebate programs to see if you qualify.
Easy to Maintain
You want the material you select for your new roof to be easy to maintain. Particularly if the house has a multi-level roof design, a roofing material that doesn’t need much maintenance will make you happier in the long run. Select a roofing system that won’t damage easily, withstands active weather including hail and snow, and resists dirt buildup and moisture.
Does It Look Good?
While a roofing material must be selected for its practicality and functionality, it should also be pleasing to the eye. Whether you plan on living in your home for a long time or selling it 10 years from now, selecting a roofing material that has the best possible curb appeal will help increase its resale value. To get the most out of your curb appeal roof wise consider the style of your home, the pitch of the roof (steep or low slope), and the styles and colours of the roofs in your neighbourhood.
