If you’re planning to put a new roof on your home soon, but it’s been years since you last purchasing roofing materials, you might be feeling overwhelmed by all of the choices that are available to consumers today! In recent years, more and more homeowners have been deciding to stray from conventional asphalt shingles and go with unique roofing options. As you read this guide, you’ll learn more about what you need to think about as you shop and what types of roofs you can pick from.
Evaluate your budget
The very first thing you need to do is figure out how much of your total renovation budget you want to dedicate to your roof. If a new roof is the only project you’re tackling at this time, you will have to determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend on it. The amount of money you can put towards the job may limit the roofing materials you can purchase. If, for example, you’re on a very tight budget, you probably won’t be able to buy high-end materials, such as slate.
Think about the look you want
Different roofing materials have different aesthetics. Take some time to really think about how you want your house to look when your remodeling project is done. Having a clear vision will help you select the most appropriate option for you. If, for instance, you reside in a Mediterranean style home, you might want to look into investing in clay tiles for your roof. This will give your house an authentic feeling.
Familiarize yourself with the options
As stated previously, there are dozens of different materials that can be used on roofs these days. Learning about some of the most popular choices will make it easier for you to have conversations with both your contractor and salespeople. Some common materials are detailed next.
- Shingles – Asphalt shingles are still America’s favorite roofing material. They are affordable, durable, and come in more colors and styles than ever before. Typically, shingles will last two decades or more before they need to be replaced; living in coastal areas, like North Carolina’s Outer Banks, may result in more wear and tear from the salt air. Furthermore, manufacturers are now making architectural shingles that have more depth and dimension than traditional styles.
- Metal – Metal roofing was once thought of only for commercial or agricultural use. Today, however, an increasing number of homeowners are choosing it for residential purposes. Metal roofing comes in numerous colors and looks great on many home styles. Mid-century abodes and ultra-modern spaces, for instance, both work exceptionally well with this material.
- Concrete tiles – Concrete tiles are a relatively new roofing material that offers durability and strength at an affordable cost. If you love the look of slate roofs, but cannot afford the high price tag associated with them, concrete tiles are a great alternative. Depending on the finish you choose for your tiles, this roofing material can work on everything from traditional homes to contemporary, minimalist structures.
- Clay tiles – As you read earlier, clay tiles are the perfect choice for Mediterranean style houses, which are popular in many subdivisions throughout North Carolina and South Carolina. It is important to note that clay tiles are fragile and can be broken if tree branches, hail, or other debris hit them. Due to this, this type of roofing often has to be repaired more frequently than other options. However, for homeowners who choose this material, the additional upkeep is well worth the aesthetic they get in return.
If the time has come for you to invest in a new roof for your home, the team at Hatch Homes would love to talk to you. Our skilled crew can work with a wide variety of materials, so whatever look you have in mind for your house, we can surely help you achieve it. We’re excited to meet with you soon!