One of the most exciting and popular ways to undertake a big home makeover is to install a new roof. Not only can a new roof change your home into a more protective and secure structure, but furthermore significantly boost curb appeal! With so many alternatives, how can you be sure you’re making the most outstanding choice for your home? Homebuilders today have a more comprehensive range of materials to choose from when building a new roof than in previous decades. There are numerous options to consider:
- asphalt
- wood & wood-look
- metal
- solar shingles
- tile
Asphalt
Asphalt is an economical shingle choice that provides durable and dependable coverage for homes of all shapes and sizes. It is by far one of the most extensively utilized roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are also relatively long-lasting, adding to their value as an investment.
Another frequently forgotten benefit is the vast color palette! Because of the variety of colors available, it’s simple to match the roofing to other architectural elements such as soffit, siding, exterior door trim, shutters, and porch columns. Asphalt shingles are available in various colors, including brown, gray, black, and beige, as well as beautifully varied tones, which can add depth and dimension to a roof’s appearance.
Wood & Wood-Look
Wood shingles are a popular choice among homeowners because they may add quaint and appealing character to a home’s exterior. When properly maintained, wood shingles can last just as long as asphalt shingles, depending on the climate, the severity of weather problems, and the material quality. Insect damage, mold, and warping, on the other hand, are all things that can degrade performance.
Wood-look shingles are a popular option since they have the same aesthetic appeal as genuine wood without flammability or fragility. Wood-look materials, such as synthetic composite and faux cedar shake shingles, have the advantage of being far more durable and weather-resistant than conventional wood.
Metal
Metal roofing, such as aluminum and tin shingles, is less prevalent. However, it still deserves to be considered when deciding on a roofing material for your next construction project. Metal shingle durability varies greatly and may be determined by the thickness and quality of the shingle used. Thinner metal roofs can take a lot of dents and damage from hail, tree branches, and other unexpected hits, but thicker shingles can last for decades.
Another thing to keep in mind is that metal shingles aren’t as energy efficient as some other shingle types. As a result, high-quality roof insulation is necessary to compensate for this material’s extreme temperature sensitivity.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are one of the most inventive and cutting-edge roofing choices. Solar shingles use sustainable, energy-efficient technology to replace individual shingles with shingles that function as solar panels. This renewable energy source can be a wise investment if you equip your home to run on converted energy.
On the other hand, solar shingles come with a steep price tag. Because the technology is still relatively new, it has a long way to go before competing with other, more traditional shingle materials on the market.
Tile
Finally, people who appreciate the old-fashioned charm of this eye-catching architectural feature will enjoy tile shingles. While tile shingles are heavier and more challenging to work with, they can last for over a century when built. If maintained correctly, tile shingles are an excellent long-term investment.