Installing a new roof is one of the most expensive home improvement projects for homeowners. Like other remodeling projects, the quality of the roof will affect the cost you have to pay. Investing in quality materials, of course, means your roof will last longer.
Before you begin with this project, you have to identify what kind of roof you want for your house, whether you’re building a new one or renovating.
What Material Should You Use for Your Roof?
There are a variety of roofing materials in the market. Each has a different lifespan, and its performance depends on where you install the roof. Choose the material carefully to make the most of your money.
Here are three common types of roofing:
1. Composite Asphalt Shingle Roof
It is the most popular roofing material. You can find it on over 80 percent of homes. This type of roofing uses organic or fiberglass base saturated and coated on the bottom side with asphalt. On the other hand, the exposed surface is soaked with small chips of slate, quartz, schist, or ceramic granules.
Shingles are popular because of low cost, easy to install, and decent life expectancy. This roofing can last from 15 to 40 years, depending on the materials used. Cheap shingles and walking on them frequently will shorten the roof’s lifespan.
2. Standing-Seam Metal Roof
This type of roofing is becoming more popular, particularly among homes in areas prone to wildfire danger. These roofs have large steel panels placed on the roof deck. The seams overlap in raised ridges, running vertically along the roof slope. You may use steel or aluminum metal sheets, but other options include copper and zinc. Metal roofs are durable and virtually maintenance-free.
Standing-seam metal roofs can last for 30 to 50 years. In some cases, their lifespan can extend up to 75 years. You should regularly check if the fasteners and sealants are still intact and look for signs of bent, distressed, or slipped panels.
3. Clay or Cement Tile Roof
This type is another popular roofing because of its incredible strength and durability. Terracotta clay is the material used in traditional tiles. But you can also find tile roofs made from ceramic and concrete. This roofing consists of individual tiles in overlapping layers over the roof surface. All the tile roofs have almost the same degree of strength and durability.
The average lifespan of this roofing is up to 100 years, given that you maintain it properly. Cracking, however, can end your tile roof. That’s you should avoid walking on them. When there are spot cracks or broken tiles, replace them as soon as possible.
Should You Install Your Roof?
Some kinds of roofs are easy to install. It doesn’t mean, however, you should do the installation on your own. Although DIY can cut the cost of this project, hiring a professional is an ideal option to reduce the risk of mistakes that can cost you more. Installing a roof is a tedious process. It also requires specific equipment to make sure your roof is installed correctly based on the material.
A roof is a vital part of your home. Poorly installed or damaged roofs can compromise the integrity of your home’s foundation as well as your safety. Choose the right material that suits your location and your home to make it last longer.
