A Complete Guide To Choosing The Best Roofing Material

March 11, 2023

A roof is one of the essential parts of the house. It is a protective barrier between the interior and exterior, protecting the inhabitants from external elements.

Roofing materials make up the outermost layer of the top of the house, including shingles, tiles, or metal panels. Remember that your choice of material determines the durability and total appearance of the roof, which in turn affects the outlook of your house.

The roofing industry has grown massively, expanding its options for roofing materials. From traditional asphalt shingles to eco-friendly roofing materials, homeowners now have an extended range of options that suits their desires and preferences. But having many options can also make decision-making difficult because you need clarification and know which to pick.

This article will provide a complete guide to choosing the best roofing material so our homeowners can make informed decisions.

Table of Contents

Importance Of A Sound Roof System

Everyone has heard that a roof is essential, it is a crucial component of a building, but do you know its importance?

  • Protection from external elements 

A roof protects the house and its people from external elements and weather, including rain, snow, wind, and sunlight.

A house is made bare without a roof, and all the interiors are at risk of damage.

  • Reduced energy consumption 

An insulated roof helps regulate the temperature inside the building, reduces the need for a heating and cooling system, and lowers energy costs.

  • Long-term survival 

A good roof provides long-term protection and value to the building. Also, a roof provides support to the structure, and it helps distribute weight and prevent damage.

Types Of Roofing Material And Their Pros And Cons

1. Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are a popular type of roofing material. It’s one of the most sought-after roofing materials because it is easy to install. It is from a mixture of asphalt, fibreglass, and ceramic. There are two significant types of asphalt shingles, namely:

  • Organic
  • Fiberglass

Pros

  • It is relatively affordable

Asphalt shingles are less expensive than other roofing materials.

  • Easy installation process

Asphalt shingles are easy to install, and it saves labor costs. The easy installation process is why it is popular among professional contractors.

  • Variety of styles, colors, and designs

Asphalt shingles come in different styles, techniques, and colors, giving buyers an extended range of options, and it’s easier to find something that complements your home.

  • Resistant to fire

Fiberglass shingles have a resistance to fire, and it also helps to stop the spreading of fire.

  • Weather resistant

Asphalt shingles are weather resistant. They can protect your house from weather damage.

  • Soundproof

Asphalt shingles aren’t entirely soundproof, but they can help reduce the noise levels inside your home and absorb sound waves well.

  • Resale value

A properly maintained asphalt shingles roof can immediately add value to your home and attract potential buyers.

Cons

  • Short lifespan

Compared to other roofing materials, asphalt shingles have a short lifespan. They last from about 15-30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the climate under which they got installed.

  • Durability

Asphalt shingles would likely suffer damage from severe weather, such as heavy rain, windstorm, and high winds.

  • Environmental impact

You most likely won’t say asphalt shingles and environmentally friendly in the same sentence because they are made from non-renewable resources and can’t be easily recycled, making them not ecologically friendly.

2. Metal Roofing 

Metal roofing is a material made from metal sheets or tiles. Metal roofing has lots of benefits to offer homeowners.

Pros

  • Metal roofing is highly durable, lasting up to 50 years if properly and carefully installed and maintained.
  • It is less likely to suffer from weather damage.
  • Metal roofing is not expensive to maintain, and they require little maintenance
  • It is resistant to fire.
  • Metal roofing gives a modern, attractive look at buildings.
  • It is 100 percent recyclable, making it environmentally friendly.

Cons

  • Metal roofing can be more high-priced than other roofing material
  • Metal roofing is not soundproof so it can get noisy during rainstorms.
  • Metal roofing is difficult to install, requiring a certain level of expertise and tools.

3. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are a type of roofing material made out of baked clay. Clay tiles have been around for the longest time.

Pros

  • Long lasting: Clay tiles can last for 50 years or more.
  • Environmental friendly: Clay tiles are more environmentally friendly because they are byproducts of natural materials that you can easily recycle for something different.
  • Resale value: Well-maintained clay tiles are more attractive to potential buyers
  • Low cost to maintenance: Clay tiles require little maintenance, and damages are easy to repair 

Cons

  • Tiles are brittle: They can break or crack if walked on or hit by heavy objects.
  • Complex installation: Clay tiles are the most challenging type of roofing materials to install.
  • High cost: Clay tiles are more expensive than other roofing materials 
  • Heavyweight: Clay tiles are heavy; this is one of the reasons they are difficult to install, and they need more support when installed.

4. Concrete Tiles 

Concrete tiles are a different grade made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water.

Pros

  • Concrete tiles are quite durable, and last a long time; so far, they have been installed correctly.
  • Concrete tiles are versatile. They come in different styles, patterns, and designs.
  • They require little maintenance
  • Resistant to fire
  • Concrete tiles cause no harm to the environment and can be recycled.

Cons

  • They are expensive
  • Concrete tiles weigh more, and they are heavy
  • They are fragile and can break if not handled with care
  • They can be more challenging to install, and they require particular tools

5. Wood Shingles 

Wood shingles are roofing materials made from various types of wood. Wood shingles have a unique, beautiful traditional finish.

Pros

  • Aesthetic appeal.
  • They help keep a house warm in cooler seasons .
  • Wood shingles are made from natural materials, which makes them friendly to the environment.
  • Wood shingles are lightweight, so they don’t need extra structure to stay in place.
  • Easy installation.

Cons

  • Wood shingles are highly flammable and can increase the risk of fire
  • They are more expensive than other roofing materials
  • Wood shingles are high maintenance. They require regular cleaning and treatment to prevent decay and mold growth. Wood shingles are prone to moisture and insects.

6. Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing is also known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer).

It is made from synthetic rubber and is a common choice for flat or low-slope roofs.

Pros

  • Durability
  • Low maintenance
  • Leak resistance
  • Rubber roofing is inexpensive compared to other roofing materials 
  • It is quite affordable 
  • Rubber roofing does not require a unique installation process
  • Rubber roofing materials are made of recyclable and environmentally friendly materials.

Cons

  • Rubber roofing has a dull appearance because it is made out of synthetic materials, unlike the other roofing materials 
  • Rubber roofing can easily get damaged by falling debris which can cause the materials to tear.

7. Green Roof

Green roofs are mainly covered with vegetation, usually plants or soil, or other growing medium. Green roofs appear to grow in all kinds of buildings.

Pros

  • Green roofing provides tons of benefits to the environment.
  • Green roofs can help reduce energy costs by providing insulation that keeps the building warm.
  • They enhance the beauty of a building. 

Cons

  • Green roofs can be costly to install, requiring ongoing maintenance and irrigation.
  • Green roofs are heavier than regular roofing because they need additional structural support.
  • Green roofing requires more effort and time to maintain. You must ensure your plants are not pests and insects infested and that your building is not susceptible to water damage.

8. Roll Roofing 

Roll roofing is used chiefly on low-slope roofs. It is made from a combination of asphalt and fiberglass and comes in rolls.

Pros

  • Roll roofing is less expensive than other roofing materials
  • It is easy and quick to install
  • It is best suitable for low-slope roofs.
  • It can be used as a temporary roofing fix when a permanent option is unavailable.

Cons

  • Short lifespan
  • Roll roofing is a short-term solution with a lifespan of 5-10 years.
  • It is less aesthetically pleasing than other roofing materials and has a minimal design and colors.
  • Roll roofing doesn’t hold up well in extreme weather conditions.

9. Corrugated Roofing 

Corrugated roofing materials come with wavy designs made from metal or plastic. Corrugated roofing is solid and can withstand any weather, and is durable.

Pros

  • Corrugated roofing is solid and can withstand any weather. 
  • Corrugated roofing is cost-effective.
  • They are easy to install
  • Corrugated roofing is lightweight, so they don’t weigh much on a building.
  • They are versatile. There’s an extended range of designs and patterns to choose from the wide range of options.

Cons 

  • They can be noisy during rainstorms
  • It doesn’t provide much insulation, which can cause an increase in energy costs.
  • They have a short life expectancy and can be reduced to a more concise version if not correctly installed.

Ten Common Types Of Roofs And The Roofing Materials Suitable For Each

1. Gable roof

A Gable roof has two equal sloping sides that join to form a ridge. It is a trendy type of roof, easy to build, and facilitates ventilation.

 

Roofing materials suitable for it include; asphalt shingles, metal roofing, clay or concrete tiles, slate, and wood shakes

2. Hip roof

The hip roof is challenging to construct and has four sides. This type of roof is used primarily in residential houses.

The materials suitable include; Asphalt shingles, Concrete tiles, and Wood shakes or shingles.

3. Dutch roof

Dutch roof is also known as Dutch gable roof. It is a combination of both hip and gable roofs. It has a gable roof on top of a hip roof. It is suitable for stability, and it is wind resistant. The materials are; Asphalt shingles, clay or concrete tiles, and wood shingles.

4. Mansard roof

The mansard roof is a French design. It has four sloping sides, with the lower side steeper than the upper side. The materials suitable include Metal roofing, Clay or concrete tiles, Slate, and Asphalt shingles.

5. Flat roofs

Most flat roofs are not flat; they’re very low-slope roofs that appear flat. They are used primarily for commercial and industrial buildings. Suitable materials include: Built-up roofing BUR, modified bitumen, Single ply roofing, and Metal roofing. 

6. Shed roof 

A shed roof is similar to a flat roof but with more pitch. It has a single-sloping plane with one higher end than the other. They are used primarily in workshops and sheds.

The materials are; Asphalt shingles, Metal roofing, corrugated fiberglass, and Roll roofing.

7. Butterfly roof

A butterfly roof is an inverted roof. It has a shape that looks like a butterfly wing hence the name. Suitable materials include; Standing seam, metal roofing, Built-up roofing BUR, TPO or PVC single-ply roofing, and Green roof.

8. Gambrel roof

A gambrel is used mainly in the barn. It contains two sides with two slopes, and the shape allows for more headroom. Suitable materials include; Asphalt shingles, Metal roofing, Wood shingles, and Slate tiles.

9. Dormer roof

The Dormer roof has a vertically sloping roof. It is both a roof and a window.

Suitable materials; Asphalt shingles, Metal Roofing, Slate tiles, and Wood shingles.

10. M shaped roof

The M-shaped roof is a double gable roof. It has two roof ends with a valley in the middle that forms an M shape and two slopes. The materials suitable include; Asphalt shingles, Metal roofing, Clay or concrete tiles, and Synthetic tiles.

Eco-friendly Roofing Materials 

A cool roof is an eco-friendly roof. It is one of the popular choices.

It is a mixture of white glue and gravel that helps reflect the sun’s rays. The house has less heat penetration, meaning less air conditioning and electricity.

  • Wood shingles

Wood shingles are durable and eco-friendly because they can be recycled into wood that people can use in their homes.

  • Metal roofing

Metal roofing is also reflective, which keeps the house cool and limits the need for air conditioners.

  • Clay tiles

Clay tiles are also eco-friendly and energy efficient. They allow air to circulate, and they’re low maintenance.

Steep Slope VS Low Slope Roofing

Roofs all serve the same purpose, to protect the building. Still, all roofs are different as they were designed from other materials and designs. There are roofs with slopes classified into steep and low slope roofing.

Let’s see the difference between steep-slope and low-slope roofing.

The first difference between them is the position. A steep slope roofing has an 18 degrees pitch and sometimes more, used on residential buildings. In comparison, low-slope roofing has a rise of below 18 degrees. The low slope roofing is a flat roof.

Common materials used for steep slopes are;

  • Asphalt shingles
  • Brick tiles
  • Metal

Common materials used for low-slope roofing

    1. Metal JSW color-coated sheets
    2. Modified bitumen
    3. Bitumen consists of roofing sheets created from asphalt modified with rubber or plastic.
  • Built-Up roofs(BUR)
  • It’s a combination of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics 
  • It’s a multilayer system that creates protection.
  1. Rolled roofing 
  • It is a mineral-based asphalt that comes in rolls
  1. Single ply
  • Thermoplastic polyolefin(TPO)
  • Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer(EPDM)
  • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Choosing the suitable roofing material for a low slope is crucial because this type of roof is exposed to many things, including water, UV rays, debris, etc.

Another difference between the two is the water flow. Rainwater does not stay on the steep slope, which helps improve its durability, but water stays long on the low slope roofs, leading to leaks and water damage. Stagnant water has been a significant concern for homeowners. Nobody wants a pool of water on their roof after heavy rainfall.

Low-slope roofing takes a simple system. The materials are less expensive, making the low slope less expensive. The steep slope roofing requires more labor due to its height and a more complex installation process.

Polycarbonate roofs are known to be one of the best options perfect for both steep slope and low slope roofing.

Homeowners with steep slopes can design and show their roofing system. Still, low-slope roofs have less visibility to showcase anything. 

Four Best Roofing Materials For Hot Climates 

Your roof, your first defense against the sun, slows heat transfer into your home. It is crucial to select the best roofing materials for hot climates if you live in such areas.

Asphalt shingles

Certain types of asphalt shingles can reflect sunlight, as a result of this preventing heat absorption.

Metal

Metal roofing reflects sunlight, forming a thermal barrier keeping your building cool.

Clay tiles 

Clay tiles have good airflow, and this helps to make your house cooler

Green roofing 

Green roofing is an environmentally friendly material that is great for hot climates. It regulates heat temperature and absorption and cools the building.

Roofing Materials Ideal For Wind And Fire-prone Areas

When looking for roofing materials, it’s essential to consider natural disasters such as wind and fire. 

Wind causes significant damage to roofs, most especially during severe storm attacks, and fire can ruin everything.

You need materials resistant to these elements to help protect your home, and you can have a certain amount of peace of mind.

  • Metal roofing

Metal roofing is both wind and fire-resistant. It is firm and can withstand wind up to 140 miles per hour. The strength makes it a perfect choice for people in areas prone to hurricanes. Metal roofing is also fire resistant and reflects heat, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to wildfire.

  • Tile Roofing 

Tile roofing is also a good material for wind and fire. Tile roofs are made of clay or concrete and can withstand wind up to 150 miles per hour. Tiles are fire-resistant and durable, lasting up to 50 years.

  • Slate roofing

Slate roofing is both wind and fire-resistant. Slate roofing is an ideal option for people in wildfire areas, and it can hold winds of up to 130 miles per hour.

Roofing Materials Suitable For Heavy Rain

Your roofing is your house’s number one defense against nature. When choosing a roofing material suitable for rainy weather environments, select a waterproof material that can handle heavy rain without leaking or sustaining damage.

Below are some roofing materials that have these attributes and can withstand rainstorms

  • Metal roofing

Metal roofing is a durable, strong option with heavy rain. It has a waterproof design, and It can prevent leaks and water damage.

  • Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingle is an affordable option to hold heavy rain without falling apart. It is waterproof and leakproof.

  • Clay and concrete tiles

They are a solid, durable option that withstands heavy rain and wind. They are also leak proof and waterproof.

  • Synthetic roofing materials.

Synthetic roofing materials such as PVC and TPO are manufactured to withstand rainstorms and are waterproof; being lightweight is a plus.

  • Slate roofing

Slate is an excellent choice for rainy climates; though expensive, but very effective.

You might need a professional to properly assess your needs and choose the proper protection material for your building.

Sustainable Roofing Materials 

Sustainability is not only restricted to green or living roofs. There is also a broad category that includes many roofing materials.

What Makes Roofing Materials Sustainable?

It’s not only the raw materials of the roofing material that makes it environmentally friendly but also how it works over its lifespan.

Sustainable materials are produced without destroying the resources, and it does little or no harm to the earth.

Any roofing material that uses fuel or mined materials is not sustainable because the source was destroyed.

Comparing Roofing Materials Sustainability

  • Metal roofing

Metal roofs are long-lasting, attractive, and contain highly recyclable materials that can be easily recycled at the end of their lifespan.

Metal is highly conductive to heat, so it must be appropriately insulated. 

Steel and aluminium are the two standard metal roofings; these materials are obtained from the earth, making them unsustainable. 

  • Slate roofing

Slate roofing is expensive and heavyweight. It also takes a lot of resources to mine. Mining is not a sustainable practice, equating to slate roofing not being sustainable.

  1. Clay tiles 

Clay tiles are durable and made with naturally shaped and fired clay. Clay is a resource that is in abundance, so people claim clay tiles to be sustainable.

  • Wood shakes and shingles

Wood shakes are the most unarguable sustainable roofing material, and wood is a sustainable material.

Destroying wood roofing is easy because wood is a biodegradable material.

  • Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are made with paper, minerals, fiberglass, tar, and petroleum products.

Shingles are not biodegradable, and they are not recyclable because petroleum, which is their based product, is not recyclable. Asphalt shingles are not sustainable.

  • Concrete tiles

Concrete tiles are made with cement which is highly intensive to produce, and it also emits CO2, which is a greenhouse gas. Concrete tiles are heavy and highly durable.

  • Green roofing

Green roofs are flat roofs that are covered in grass or plants. The green roof offers many benefits, including providing insulation and absorbing rainwater, amongst other things.

A downside is that green roofs rely on heavy rubber membrane to waterproof their roof, which is made of petroleum and not sustainable.

Tips For Choosing A Sustainable Roofing Material

  • Check the material to see if it contains materials that can be recycled. Research well to see if the material can be recycled.
  • Please avoid roofing materials coated in copper or zinc because washing them into a water source could be deadly to aquatic life.
  • Check to know if your roofing material needs toxic products to maintain it. Suppose it doesn’t; look for another one with a less time-consuming maintenance process.
  • Heavy roofing materials are advisable because they can’t fly off during a windstorm. Still, you must ensure your house structure can support it.
  • Choose roofing materials with an extended warranty period to be more durable.

Environmental Impact To Consider When Choosing A Roofing Material

  • Sustainable energy management 

Some roofing materials are highly reflective and can help to reduce cooling costs. 

Example: Metal and tiles

  • Capacity to endure over time 

Choosing materials that last long will reduce replacement and also minimize waste and resources from replacement

Example:Slate metal

 

  • The ability to be reused

It’s advisable to choose materials that can be recycled and used again. The recyclable factor will help reduce the waste that goes to landfills. 

Example: Metal and asphalt

  • Renewable resources

There are renewable roofing materials that are renewable. They are resources that people can sustainably harvest. E.g., Wood shakes and shingles

  • Environmental impact of production

Manufacturing some roofing materials has a significant environmental impact, including pollution and using energy and resources.

  • Green roofing

The use of green roofing can reduce energy consumption and improve air quality, amongst other environmental benefits.

Your home is a long-term investment, and it’s important to seal it up with the best roofing materials to protect it.

Here Are Factors To Consider When Picking A Roofing Material

  • Cost of purchase 

Before you start, you should have a budget of what you’re willing to spend on the house. Your budget helps you in the direction that you should go. You should know that a costly material does not guarantee durability, and a less expensive one does not necessarily mean it’s of less quality.

  • Continuous upkeep and maintenance 

Pick a roofing material that suits your schedule. If you’re busy, it automatically means you only have a little time to care for your roof, so pick one that only needs a little maintenance. Metal is a good material that does not require much work, so it’s best for busy homeowners.

  • Shape of the building 

The shape of your building/ roof determines the roofing materials you’ll get. Not all roofing materials are suitable for all kinds of roofs. The roof used in a commercial building might differ from that used in a residential building.

  • Style and design of the building 

The style and design of your building are factors to be considered by homeowners. Some materials can’t be used with a particular house design, e.g., modern houses and traditional houses, they already have a theme, so it’s just best to stick to it so that the house does not have an odd appearance.

  • Requirement of your community

Some communities have rules and regulations guiding their buildings. You should consult your local building codes and regulations to ensure you get suitable materials.

  • Climate conditions and changes

A critical factor to consider is the weather. What is the weather condition in your environment? Get a roofing material that can withstand the weather pressure in your environment. Certain roofing materials work better in certain climates than others. 

  • Weight of the materials 

Roofing materials weigh more than each other, and some are heavier than others, e.g., green roofing is weighty than others, requiring extra support structure.

Picking the right weight can help your building. Check well to know If your building has the structure to support the weight of the roofing materials; if not, you might need additional structural support.

  • Resistance to fire and flames 

If you live in areas prone to wildlife, you need to be careful of the type of roofing materials you use. Some roofing materials are more vulnerable to fire.

  • Process of installing 

What is the installation process? Know that some materials have long and tedious installation processes. Some even require expertise and specific tools, which can increase your labor force and cost.

  • Availability of the materials

Some roofing materials are more difficult to find in certain areas, and it’s advisable to go with materials that can easily be found in your area to shorten your installation process and the cost of materials.

Considering all these factors, you can make a more informed decision.

Cost of Roofing Materials

The cost of a roof replacement varies widely. But some factors that determine the cost include the type of roofing materials installed, the size and shape of your roof, home size, slope of the roof, local labor prices, and other factors.

A home roof replacement costs between $5,400 to $19,800 on average as of 2023. 

But it can also range from $4,500 to as much as $30,000.

Which Roofing Material Is The Best?

There is no single best roofing material. All the roofing materials have their strengths and areas they lack. There is a roofing material that is perfect for you and your building, and the best roofing material depends on your needs and preferences. You can seek a professional to choose the best roof to serve your needs perfectly.

Note: Working with a professional to ensure you get the best material for your building is advisable.

How To Care For The Roof To Avoid Damage 

  • Regular inspection

It’s advisable to inspect your roof at least twice a year, once at the beginning and the end of the year, and also after weather events such as heavy rain, windstorm, or snowfall. Check for signs of cracks, missing shingles, and any other damage

  1. Trim your trees 

Cut off any hanging branches close to your roof. A tree branch could snap and fall on the roof causing it to get damaged, so regular trimming of branches and trees close to the roof can reduce the chances of damage.

  • Clean gutters

Gutters help the roofing because it directs water off the roof, but if the drain is clogged, water will remain stagnant and won’t move from the top, which is unsuitable for the roof. So regular cleaning of the gutter will help the roof.

  • Clean your roof regularly.

It is vital to clean periodically. Remove every leaf, twig, dirt, and debris from the roof regularly. By doing so, you’re protecting your roof from mold, lichen, and algae growth.

  • Sufficient air flow

Ensure your roof is well-ventilated because proper ventilation will prevent moisture buildup, and lack of moisture will prevent mold growth.

  1. Repair any damage immediately

If you notice slight damage on the roof, repair it immediately before it escalates.

  • Use of sealant and coating

Applying sealant and coating will add a protective layer to your roof, protecting it from harsh weather conditions.

  • Professional inspection

It would be best to have your roof inspected by a professional every few years to check for signs of damage that professionals can only detect.

The processes can help prevent damage to your roof and prolong its lifespan.

When To Replace Your Roof

Replacing a roof is a significant project, and it can be expensive. But if you wait too long before you do it, it could lead to more damage and put you at risk.

Below are signs that you need to change your roof.

  • Duration of existence 

Every roof has a lifespan lasting between 20 to 25 years. If your roof is older than that, it’s time to start thinking of changing it before it caves in on you.

If you start to notice leaks, cracks, broken pieces of the roof, or extensive damage, it’s time for a change. If you ignore the damage, it will only worsen and might cost you even more damage.

  • Water damage

If you notice water damage on your ceiling or walls or water stain, it’s a clear sign that your roof is leaking; change it to prevent further damage.

  • Granule loss

If you notice a pile of granules around your house or on the gutter, your shingles are losing their protective granules and should be changed.

  • Sagging of the roof

If you notice sagging, your roof has rotted due to trapped moisture and must be replaced.

  • Curling shingles

When you notice that your shingles have started to curl, it is a sign that they are not correctly attached and are likely damaged; you need a professional to look at them.

  • Missing shingles

The appearance of moss and fungi means that there is trapped moisture; you need to check it out to avoid more damage.

Do I Need A Professional To Fix My Roof, Or Can I Do It Myself?

You can do some random minor roof repairs, but having a professional handle is the best. 

These roofing contractors have the needed expertise and tools to fix it.

They know the dos and don’t of the job; if anything were to go wrong, they would know how to maneuver and correct it. 

If the roof is not installed correctly, it could lead to future problems. For example, suppose spaces were accidentally left when fixing the roof. In that case, water could get in and create moisture, leading to mold, rot, and other damage. Also, installing a roof on your own could compromise the insurance policy.

If you think the labor cost is much, think of how much it would cost to fix it if it was damaged again.

All home projects are essential and need to be done with care. Most homeowners hastily search for any available roofing constructor to get the work done; it’s not a good idea, but it has more disadvantages rather than advantages.

Choosing a good roof constructor requires research, time, and patience.

Tips For Hiring A Good Roofing Contractor

  • Cross-check insurance and licensing

Look for a reputable contractor and check their license. Please take your time to research the contractor properly. Only work with contractors who can provide their insurance.

  1. Pick local contractor

Use local roofing companies. Picking a local contractor will reduce your risk of falling prey to scammers. A local contractor is familiar with the rules and regulations in the community. They know of all the weather conditions and know which roof is best to withstand them, and they have a good relationship with the area’s suppliers and crew. You can get your materials at a discounted rate.

  • Check for experience

Hire a contractor with long roof construction experience who will likely do a good job. The constructors might charge higher, but you’ll be satisfied with the results you’ll get.

  1. Go through their past work as a reference

A contractor’s work will always speak for them. It will show in their work if they are as good as they say. Go through their site and portfolio and talk with someone who has used their service to ensure you’re on the right path

  1. Review the contract and warranties carefully before you commit

Check and read every contract repeatedly until there’s nothing else to read. Understand the warranty period that came with your new roof.

Beware of constructors who want you to sign hastily.

Focus on something other than the price. Most times, it’s about something other than money. Pick a roofing contractor who offers the best value for your money.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, selecting suitable roofing materials for your home is vital and should be done wisely and carefully. Not only does it protect your home, but it also adds to the house’s overall appearance. 

From asphalt shingles to wood shingles, there are a variety of roofing materials to pick from, each with its disadvantages and benefits.

It’s essential to keep those factors such as type of material, cost, durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and environmental impact in mind. Also, the roof’s proper installation and maintenance process determines how long it will last. 

Finally, as the world has become more environmentally conscious and we’re caring for our environment, you need to consider roofing materials that positively impact the environment.

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