Homeowner Tips: Does the Material of Your Roof Matter?
In a perfect world, your home would have all the things it needs to run smoothly. But that’s not always the case. I’ve lived in an old house and had major repairs done to the roof, and I’ve built a brand-new home where we had a choice in materials. Y’all may need some advice on ensuring everything with your home stays up to date and works correctly. A good place to start is by understanding the different materials used for roofing and what they mean for your home’s longevity and environmental impact.
Choosing the Right Roof
The material of your roof matters because it affects several things, including the life span of your roof, maintenance required for the roof, repair costs, and energy efficiency. If you’re thinking of buying a home or dealing with any kind of repair, consider these factors.
All the common roofing materials have their own pros and cons. Choosing a material is a personal choice, but it can make all the difference between having an affordable, easy-to-maintain roof and one that requires constant repair work or replacement.
Many different factors go into determining a roof’s value. When adding maintenance costs into the equation, metal roofing tends to have the upper hand over the alternatives.
Weather Extremes
Another reason the material of your roof matters so much is that it is your home’s first defense against inclement weather. If your roof cannot handle the weather patterns in your area, it can harm your home’s integrity. A weak enough roof will allow moisture to build up inside the house, causing mold and mildew growth, leading to health issues if left untreated.
After extreme weather, it’s important to inspect your roof. If there are damaged areas, repair or replace them. If the damage is extensive and you are unsure what to do, contact a professional for help.
Roofing Materials To Consider
For homeowners in the market for a new roof, there are three main types: asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and metal. Asphalt shingles are the most popular option due to their affordability and durability in heavy rain or snowfall. However, high winds can easily damage them—a common occurrence in areas that experience hurricanes or tornadoes—and require regular maintenance to look their best. Clay tiles offer increased energy efficiency over asphalt shingles but still require periodic repairs if they’re exposed to harsh weather conditions. Metal roofs last longer than either of these options thanks to their durability against temperature extremes but also require careful installation to ensure watertight seams throughout your home. A bonus is that metal roofing also creates a more energy-efficient home.
The Right Roof
Roofing can be an incredibly confusing topic, but it’s one you’ll want to get right. It’s important that you consider the material of your roof and any other factors that might affect your decision. This is especially true for you if you live in an area with extreme weather. Y’all, be sure your roof will stand up against whatever weather conditions come its way and last for years. Your roofing material matters!
