To review, here are several simple guidelines that you can use to choose the right roofing material for a residential or commercial structure:
Find out how much weight your roof can support.
This is the first preliminary qualification for choosing a roofing material. If you’re attracted to a heavier roofing material like clay tile for your home, you want to first know that the internal support system of your house can withstand the weight. If not, you must be prepared to pay the price in expensive upgrades for internal bearings and supports to compensate.
Set your project budget.
The next step on the journey to choosing the right roofing material for your home or business is to determine how much you’re willing or able to spend. In many cases, able is the operative word. While you may be willing to splurge on a beautiful wooden shingle roof, a moderately priced asphalt shingle roof may be more feasible.
If you’re putting on a new roof for the sole purpose of increasing the resale value of your home, you must monitor how much you’re willing to spend on an upgrade.
Start by factoring in how long you plan to stay in your current property. If you hope to move within five years, it doesn’t make financial sense to splurge on expensive roofing materials. If you don’t plan to stay in your home for the long haul, it may be best to patch a leaking roof instead of paying for a full replacement.
Consider your climate.
This is where durability comes into play. If you live in an area of the country with severe winters, it’s critical to take care in the roofing material that you choose so that it can last for years – no matter what Mother Nature brings your way.
For this reason, metal roofs are often a popular choice since they can easily withstand heavy rain, hail, and wind; however, metal roofs aren’t recommended in coastal homes since they may rust. In climates with a large amount of snowfall, it’s best to choose a roofing material with a higher water resistance to prevent moisture accumulation.
Decide what style you prefer.
A residential or commercial structure can benefit greatly from the style of materials used on a roof. Attractive, polished roofing materials can immediately improve the curb appeal of a property, or they can clash with siding and trim on a home or business.
One quick way to determine the latest trends in roofing materials is to take a tour of your neighborhood. You may find that most of your neighbors prefer wood shingles. If that’s the case, choosing wood shingles could help your house to better complement surrounding homes, making it easier to sell when you’re ready to put it on the market.
Businesses can also benefit from choosing roofing materials that match surrounding structures. If your business is located in the midst of a neighborhood, you can take notes on the roofing materials that are already used on nearby houses. It may also help to select materials that complement the roofs of other businesses in nearby office complexes.
Factor in energy efficiency.
One of the best ways to get a return on your investment in residential or commercial roofing is to choose energy-efficient materials that cut down on heating and cooling. If that is a top concern for your property, look for materials that have an Energy Star rating for that purpose.
As outlined in the previous chapters, many businesses can benefit from the installation of green roofing to cushion urban heat exposure and promote a cleaner environment.
A & J Reliable, Inc. is one of the most trusted roofing contractors in the Tri-State Area. For professional recommendations on choosing the right roofing materials or to receive a FREE estimate on your next roofing project, please contact us today! We’re happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have to ensure the most reliable roofing in every project.
