Taking on a roof replacement is a hefty task. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to design function.
That’s because your roof has a lot of impact on the curb appeal of your home.
When replacing your roof, you must decide on a material based on its visual appeal, functionality, durability, cost. This go-to guide will help you navigate that decision with ease.
The Ultimate Guide to Roof Replacement
Let’s dive into the 5 most common types of roofing shingles you can choose from for your roof replacement.
1. Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are arguably the most widely used roofing material out there.
Pros:
They are relatively cheap have a life expectancy of 20 to 50 years. Asphalt shingles are also easy to install, so they help keep your labor costs down in addition to material costs.
They come in a variety of colors, designs, shapes, are compliant with Energy Star standards. This means you can get a cool roof rebate.
Eco-minded consumers will also be happy to know that asphalt shingles can be recycled.
Cons:
Asphalt shingles don’t stand up to drastic weather changes well. They can handle consistently cold or consistently hot, but fast changes between extremes will cause the shingles to crack and decay.
Extreme weather conditions such as hail or high winds will likely damage asphalt shingles as well.
So, if you live in an area prone to extreme weather, be sure to opt for extra thick asphalt shingles, or you may want to choose another more durable alternative.
2. Wood
Wood shingles have mostly been replaced cheaper asphalt. However, some homeowners still prefer their aesthetic appeal.
Pros:
Wood shingles look unique and achieve an old world quality perfect for the aesthetic of some homes. They are (obviously) made of organic materials, and are therefore eco-friendly. Additionally, they provide energy efficiency that can save you in heating and cooling costs.
If you live in an area with frequent storms, good news. When it comes to hail and high winds, they are very durable.
Cons:
Wood shingles are vulnerable to fire, rot, mold, and termites. They are also costly and difficult to install.
They require a good bit of maintenance, which may not be something you have time for as a homeowner.
3. Metal
Metal roofing is a great option for homes with a steep pitch or no pitch at all.
Pros:
It can also be very long-lasting, and it’s perfect for rough weather conditions such as areas that get a lot of snowfall.
Well-designed metal roofs with cooling elements can also qualify you for an Energy Star rebate. Plus, metal roofing is lightweight, durable — it’s fire, water, and rot-resistant.
In some cases, metal roofing can be applied over existing roofing, saving you the removal labor cost.
Lastly, metal roofs come in many styles, accommodating nearly any architectural design.
Cons:
Metal roofing is usually more expensive than the alternatives.
It can also be noisy, since there is no “give” to absorb the sound of falling items such as acorns, branches, and rain. Metal roofing is susceptible to rust and may require repair. Luckily, this type of repair is usually covered under warranty.
4. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are expensive. However, they have a certain Mediterranean/Spanish appeal that is hard to recreate with other materials.
Pros:
Tile shingles are extremely durable under a variety of weather conditions. When installed correctly, they can last up to 80 years.
You can achieve a unique, decorative effect with the layering of ceramic tiles. They are fire, insect, and rot-resistant, in addition to being recyclable and eco-friendly.
Cons:
The installation of a ceramic tile roof is complicated, and requires a specific expertise. Ceramic tiles are heavy, meaning that not every home can support their weight.
5. Slate
Slate is a natural rock that is one of the most long-lasting roofing options on the market, albeit an expensive one.
Pros:
Slate tiles last 80-100 years. They are also unique and expensive looking.
Finally, slate is great in snowy or rainy environments because of its low water absorption rate of 0.4%.
Cons:
Slate is costly both in material and labor.
These roofs are also very heavy, and will only work on houses with the foundation to support it.
Costly, But Worth It
It’s no secret that a roof replacement can be costly.
The cost varies greatly based on the size of your home, the pitch (slope), removal costs, damage repair, material costs, labor costs, etc.
For a deeper dive into how to estimate the cost of your roof replacement, check out this post.
With all that in mind, let’s focus on its monetary upsides for a moment.
Did you know that a new roof can help bump up your resale value by an average of $12,000? That’s a good chunk of change.
High-quality materials, the size of your roof, and additional benefits such as cooling features can bump that up even more.
Speaking of cooling features, your new roof can save you money in more ways than just resale value. Certain types of roofing shingles can shift the temperature of your house. This can save you hundreds annual on cooling heating costs.
With So Many Options, How Do You Choose?
So, when you’re choosing your roof, prioritize first by durability requirements based on weather, then by style, lastly by cost.
This will help you settle on a roof you that protects you, appeals to your aesthetic, fits your budget.
As far as style, consider the colors materials that you like. Do they go with the color style of your home exterior? Gray brown tones match the majority of exteriors. However, lighter-colored tiles offer energy saving heat reflection.
Also, decide if you want the roof replacement to make your house blend in or stand out. Do you want to embrace the architectural style of your home? Perhaps you want to modernize it?
With this criteria, you’ll be well equipped to pick out a roof replacement that you’ll love.
There You Have It!
We hope you found this roof replacement guide helpful!
Questions? Don’t hesitate to us at Davis Contracting for all of your roofing, siding, window needs.