6 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Roofing Material

The variety of roofing materials has grown, thanks to new technologies and innovations. The materials available can meet different homeowners' tastes, preferences, and budgets. However, while the wide variety gives homeowners options to choose from, some may find the process of selecting the best roofing material overwhelming.

Due to a lack of knowledge, some homeowners consider only aesthetics and cost when choosing materials for their roofing projects. Let's see some important factors to consider when choosing a roofing material.

1. Roof Design 

Since different roofing materials have varying properties, some materials fit some designs better than others. For example, if your roof has a low pitch, you need a material that is resistant to leaks due to the high risk of pooling water.

On the other hand, if your roof has a steep pitch, like a gable roof, you can use other roofing materials, as the risk of pooling water is minimal.

2. Weather

If you value durability, it’s crucial to consider the weather conditions in your area of residence as you determine the best roofing material. Since the roof acts as a shield that protects your family from the harmful effects of sun, rain, snow, and other weather, choose a material that can withstand the elements in your area.

For example, metal roofs with a steel substrate are not a good option for coastal homes because they are more likely to rust when exposed to a salty and humid environment. However, due to its robustness, the material is best for areas that experience extreme weather like strong winds, storms, and tornadoes.

3. Architectural Design

Most architectural designs have a roof type that suits them best. For example, if you choose a traditional architectural style, you must select traditional roofing materials like masonry tiles or wood tiles to achieve style consistency.

Likewise, modern roofing materials, like metal roofs and shingles, best suit contemporary house designs. Though you can break the rules to choose a material that suits your budget, make sure that your chosen material does not look out of place when installed on your roof.

4. Maintenance Cost

Owning a home comes with the responsibility of keeping it in good shape. All materials require some form of upkeep, but some may cost more to maintain than others. For example, a material that requires annual repainting may cost more to maintain than a material that only needs annual inspection and cleaning.

Therefore, research a material’s maintenance needs before selecting it. An experienced roofer can help you identify the maintenance needs for various roofing materials.

5. Energy Efficiency

Due to rising energy costs, many homeowners are embracing energy-efficient roofs to save money on energy bills. An energy-efficient roof should reflect rays from the sun to minimize the amount of heat absorbed into your house.

6. Cost

Roofing material manufacturers price materials differently depending on the cost of production. Therefore, while you must consider other factors like durability and aesthetics, your budget determines the roofing material you can afford.

Usually, high-quality materials come at a higher price, but that is not always the case, as some materials are only priced higher due to brand name. 

If you have a roofing project, you must choose a material that best suits your aesthetics and functionality needs. The tips above should help you compare the available options and choose a roofing material that meets all your roofing needs. An experienced roofing contractor can help you if you are still unsure about the roofing material to choose.

At Ludemann Construction LLC, we help our clients finish their residential construction projects flawlessly. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.