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Buying a new roof requires making important decisions, which will depend on several factors. Price is an important factor to consider, but it should not be the sole basis for making a buying decision. As an essential component of your home, you need to take time to do your research.
5 Key Tips To Buying A New Roof
1. Consider The Roofing Material
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, but there are other roofing materials that match the longevity of asphalt such as slate, plastic, wood, or a combination of these materials. The type of roof to consider will depend on where you live. Other roofing materials thrive on the colder weather while some can withstand warmer climates.
- Slate: This type of roof contains durable materials, which can last up to 50 to 100 years. Since slate is a natural product, it does not create a dangerous impact on the environment. The material is also recyclable. Slate is ideal for high heat areas.
- Asphalt: Asphalt is the most popular and cost-effective roof material. In fact, 75% of homeowners prefer asphalt shingles. Aside from its durability, you also have plenty of great styles and colors to choose from. They are ideal for both residential and commercial structures. Asphalt is eco-friendly and can withstand harsh weather elements.
- Metal: This roof is as durable as asphalt and slate. Metal comes in many forms, which is a determining factor for its price. The material can last more than 50 years depending on the area you live in. It is made of lightweight material, making it easier to install than other roofing materials.
- Wood: This material gives your home a rustic feel. It uses various types of wood like southern pine, redwood, and cedar. Wood shingles can last up to 50 years. They are also a natural product, which contains recyclable materials.
- Tile/Concrete/Clay: Tiles are resistant to weather and fire. It is also durable like Asphalt and Slate. Its longevity depends on a few factors such as the location of your home.
2. Take The Style Of Roof Into Account
The roof you buy depends on the style of your home. Consider the surface area as this gives you an idea what you should look for in a roofing material. Here are some of the most common roofing styles:
- Gable Roof: This roof has a triangular shape, placed in between two roof panels. The gable has a sloping shape and popular in areas where there are heavy snowfalls. Gabled roofs are affordable, functional and easy to install. They also come in a variety of styles such as Dutch gable, saltbox gable, boxed gable and crow-stepped gable.
- Flat Roof: This style is ideal for building new homes. It comes in various types such as rubber membrane, built-up roof, and modified bitumen. Flat roofs differ from traditional sloped roofs because they use different methods of replacement and repair. Since this style is prone to leaks, it is necessary to use strong and proper foundational materials.
- Hip Roof: Hip roofs have four sides with consistent angles to meet a single point. Although there are many ways to create a hip roof, the two basic shapes complete its form. A hip roof is easily recognizable because of its lack of gables or vertical sides. This style is common in modern architecture such as ranch homes, cottages, and bungalows.
- Mansard Roof: Mansard roof or French roof is not as common as flat and gable roof, but it is popular in barn houses.
3. Choose Colored Roof
The color of the roof is an important element to consider. There are many choices to explore, but the climate determines the ideal color for your home. Colors have an impact on your energy bills because they contribute to the temperature. Color can either attract heat or cool your home.
Light-colored roofs keep your home temperature down while dark-colored roofs absorb heat. If you are in a warm area, it is best to consider white shingles. Dark shingles work best in colder climates. You may also want to look into the style of your home including its colors and the materials used. Trendy colors are the way to go for those who want their homes to make a statement. However, if you prefer to maintain the same style for many years, choosing neutral colors will do the trick.
4. Check If Materials Are Durable
Most customers miss out on checking the durability of the roof because of focusing on the price. The longevity of your roof will depend on materials and maintenance. However, not all roofs have the same quality. Since there are many types of roofing materials available in the market, it is imperative that you are aware what the roof is made of. Depending on the weather in your area, your roof can last up to 100 years.
Choose eco-friendly materials like slate shingles. You can also purchase roofing materials that mimic concrete or tile shingles, known as composite or synthetic roofing. However, you will still need to keep in mind that the quality of these roofs will depend on their manufacturer.
5. Get To Know Your Budget Range
The price may be a primary concern for you when buying a roof, but there are factors that determine the price of a roof. For instance, roofing companies will figure out the exact size of your roof based on square footage. They will check the layers of shingles that you already have. The multiple layers of shingles affect the cost as well.
Other factors that determine the final cost of the roof include the weight, design, durability, and longevity. Dimensional lifetime shingles are more expensive than asphalt composition shingles. Roofs with extended warranties are more expensive because they require additional materials, steps, support, and inspection.
There are cases when the roofer needs to secure permits for roof repair. Permits can affect the overall cost of the roof. In some areas, a permit that protects your home from natural disasters such as tropical storms and hurricanes can add a few dollars to the final roofing cost.
With the elements and factors involved in choosing a roof, buying a roof is not an easy task. You can make your buying experience a breeze if you put your trust in precisionroofingsupplies.com. They are your one stop shop for roofing supplies and materials, offering top quality products.
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