So your home needs a new roof. Now what? How do you decide what kind of roof to install, and what kind of questions should you ask your roofer?

Here are a few things to consider before choosing a new roof for your home.

Specific Considerations for Your Home
There are a few questions you need to answer before installing a new roof. These include:

  • Will the roofing contractor be required to have a contractor license to replace my roof?
  • What slope is needed to properly distribute rain and snow?
  • Will the look of the new roof compliment the aesthetics of my house?
  • How long do I want my new roof last?
  • What weight roof will the existing framing hold?
  • What does my Homeowners Association allow?
  • What’s my budget for a new roof?

Different Roofs for Different Needs

Homeowners often don’t realize they have choices when it comes to selecting a roof. Not all roofing materials are created equal. Where one home might need superior sun protection, another might have issues with moisture and algae.

By far the most common U.S. roofing material is composition asphalt shingles. They’re a moderate weight, relatively inexpensive and come in dozens of colors to match just about any home. Todays shingle life varies depending on weather, location, grade and installation. Installation quality varies widely. For the best appearance and the least amount of repairs, be sure you select a certified, local roofing professional to install your roofing system.

Metal roofs come in a wide variety of materials and finishes (i.e. aluminum, steel, copper, etc.) and they’re lighter than they appear. They can be used on roofs of varying slopes and are actually very durable over time. Their major downside is cost, so if you’re extremely budget conscious upfront, metal may not be your first choice.

Tile roofs like those commonly seen on Mediterranean-style houses, typically barrel tile, are custom jobs, so they are generally expensive. Tiles can be made from clay, concrete, slate, metal, or synthetic materials.  This material is typically heavier in nature and will in most cases require possible roof reinforcements. They are generally more durable and have a longer life expectancy.

Shake roofs – wooden shingle roofs – are attractive and unique. Wood roof shingles are commonly cut from red cedar and sawn uniformly. Cedar shakes are also frequently hand-split, creating a more rustic appearance. They’re moderate in weight but high in cost. They require a fair amount more maintenance than other roof materials due to the natural properties of wood. As with many products these days, composite synthetic shake tiles are available and offer all of the natural, rustic beauty of real cedar shingles but without any of the natural drawbacks of real wood.

Composite roof shingles are typically lightweight, impervious to freeze/thaw cycles, impact resistant, maintenance free, and known for their color fade resistance.

Choosing a New Roof
The first place to start when choosing a new roof is a discussion with a licensed, insured, and experienced professional roofing contractor. Ask your roofer what kind of roof he or she would suggest, and talk about factors like budget, maintenance, warranty and style. It’s a personal decision and one you will live with for a long time potentially. Don’t get pressured by a door-to-door roofer. Consult a local, professional, highly rated roofer with experience under their belt.

Ready for a new roof? Contact H&S Roofing and Gutter Company, Charlotte’s choice since 1939 for reliable roofing. We’re ready to talk to you about which roof is right for you today!