If you’re planning on redoing your roof, it’s important to choose a durable roofing material. Learn more about your options here.
No matter where you live, your roof needs to be in excellent condition to keep your family and your property safe.
If you’re wondering which types of durable roofing will give your home the protection you need, look no further.
This helpful guide from Barrie’s leading roofing company will give you eight tips so you can choose the most durable roofing material for your needs. Read on to discover more.
1. Consider Snow Load
If you live in an area where you get heavy snow during the winter months, you’ll want to choose a roofing material that can handle the excess weight. Metal is an excellent choice, and you’ll see metal roofs in a lot of areas where snow is prevalent.
Find out what kind of snow load the roof you’re interested in will withstand. This will help you determine which option should work for your needs, and choose a roof that can handle the burdensome weight that snow will inevitably bring.
2. Examine Your Budget
Not all roofing material is of the same quality, nor is it of the same cost. When you’re looking for new roofing material, consider how much it will cost you to have it installed.
In general, the classic asphalt shingle roof is the most budget-friendly. Material like copper, ceramic, and slate will cost a lot more since they’re tougher and more durable. These materials are also more difficult to install, so the cost of labor will naturally be higher, too.
3. The Life Expectancy of Durable Roofing
If you have a home that you plan to pass on to future generations, slate is a great choice since it can last up to around 100 years. On the other hand, if you’re planning to sell your home, traditional shingles should be fine although they only last about 20 years or less.
Metal roofing can last anywhere from 40 to an impressive 80 years. And, although wood shingles need a lot more maintenance than many other options, they can still last around 30 years as long as you give them the care and attention they need.
4. Consider Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are a newer player on the market, but they’re becoming a popular option for homeowners who need durable roofing. These types of shingles come in a variety of colors and weigh about twice as much as asphalt shingles.
Architectural shingles are made from a composite material, and you can even find them in a wood-look style. Since this product is fairly new, it’s still too soon to tell exactly how long it will last. Since architectural shingles are pre-made and engineered, they’re less expensive than slate, tile, and metal.
5. What About Flat Roofs?
Flat roof installation is popular throughout the Southwest thanks to an abundance of adobe-style homes. These roofs are installed in layers that alternate between protective materials like fiberglass and tar.
The issue with flat roofs is that they tend to buckle under the weight of too much water. With good maintenance, however, a flat roof should last around 20 to 30 years. This roofing material lasts well as long as the roof is properly cared for and maintained.
6. Consult a Professional
If you’re just not sure which type of roofing will work your location and your budget, it’s a good idea to schedule an estimate with a professional roofing company. They can take a closer look at your home and factor in things like the local climate and the age of your house.
A professional roofer understands what will work well in various situations so you can get the most from your money. It’s usually more cost-effective to pay more upfront rather than having to replace your roof every 10 years or less if you go with the least durable option.
7. Understand Threats to Your Roof
Even if you have extremely durable roofing, there are several things that can cause issues with the structure and integrity of the roof. Weather is the number one cause of roof damage, and it’s mostly due to severe storms like hurricanes or tornadoes.
But the weather isn’t the only thing that can cause your roof to fail. Improper installation or inadequate underlay can make your roof leak, warp, or fall apart. Cheap materials can also play a role in roof issues, so make sure you choose quality roofing materials that come with a warranty.
8. Weight and Fire Resistance
Durable roofing material like Spanish clay tile, slate, and even some kinds of metal are great for giving your home the protection it needs. On the other hand, these types of materials are very heavy which means you may have to do some structural changes so your home can bear the weight.
Fire resistance is another important factor when it comes to durability. Wood shingles are not recommended for this reason alone in most cases. Check the fire rating of any roofing material before you make a decision so you can keep your home and your family safe.
Choose a Roof that Lasts
Whether it’s the classic asphalt shingle or a piece of metal, there’s plenty of durable roofing materials to choose from. As long as you know what will fit into your plans, your budget, and your future, you should have no problems finding the perfect roof.
Ask for a free roof inspection and estimate so you can be sure you’re making the right decision.
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