Roofing Materials

Roof covering is the one part of the roof that allows a homeowner to customize according to specific needs and wants. Shingles and shake can come in all shapes, sizes, materials, colors, and prices. It is important for you to become knowledgeable on the different materials used in roof covering. This knowledge will assist you in selecting a roof covering that is right for your personal tastes, climate needs, and budget.

The most common types of roofing materials include:

• Asphalt shingles
• Wood shake and shingles
• Tile roofing
• Slate roofing
• Metal roofing

The longevity of your roof cover relies heavily on the quality of the material that you select. Using the finest material will add resale value and visual appeal to your home. When selecting a material make sure to pay special attention to the level of maintenance that each material requires and also how well it holds up to outside elements such as rain, sunlight, fire, and debris.

Keep in mind, if you are re-roofing, you may want to stick with the material you already have. For instance, a historic home ought to have the original roofing material or a least a carefully manufactured imitation simply because it is important to carry on its traditional beauty. You will still be able to find traditional materials to go forward with your re-roofing, however, modern asphalt shingles can come close to the original appearance for a fraction of the price.

Roof Slope

Aside from aesthetics and quality, you also need to pay attention to the slope and structure of your roof before deciding on a material. Basically, asphalt and wood shingles, slate, tile, and metal all work well at slopes of 4/12 or steeper. However, pitches of less than three inches per foot will require either asphalt roll roofing or one of the new membrane roofs. Likewise, roof structure matters too. It is in your best interest to have your roof examined before deciding on a material. The structure of your roof must be able to support the weight of the material you select.

Lastly, it is important to note that various geographical locations have different requirements in regard to fire rating. For this reason, you should always consult with an experienced contractor before purchasing your materials. A professional roofer should be familiar the local codes and be able to guide you with your decision accordingly.

Looking For More Information About Roofing?

Roofing or re-roofing your home is a great investment. You'll want to make sure you are choosing the right roofer for your house and your budget. We offer Free Roofing Price Quotes from local, prescreened roofing contractors.