Need A New Roof? These 4 Factors Will Influence Your Decision

The roof of your home is as vital as the foundations. Your roof protects your home from the elements constantly, and any damage sustained to the roof can mean you risk putting the structure and interior of your home at risk.

Often, your roof will need repairs to maintain its structure and allow it to function as required. However, if you find yourself needing a new roof, there are some things you should consider when choosing one for your home.

Design of Your Home

The architectural style of your home will influence your choice of roofing material to some extent. Asphalt shingles, for example, are versatile and can be used with practically any architectural design, whereas tiles are more appropriate for older homes. Houses painted in bright colors such as red, green, or yellow contrast well with dark roofing.

For a classic but contrasting style, grey or blue homes should have dark grey or black roofs; the same can be said for white buildings for an elegant yet distinct appeal. A brown roof or a combination of brown and cream colors complements homes painted tan, cream, or a darker shade of brown. Whatever material you choose, be sure that it complements your home’s architecture and wall color.

The Climate

When selecting a roofing material, it is critical to consider the climate of the area in question. Choosing a material that can survive heavy rainfall, for example, is essential in areas with a lot of rain. You might also think about a sloped roof, which allows water and snow to flow more readily from the roof. A humid coastal climate, as well as trees that are taller than your roof, might cause mold, mildew, moss, or algae to grow on your roof, impairing its performance and reducing its lifespan. However, if you are in a sunnier climate, you might want to consider a solar roof to help you generate electricity using solar tiles.

Choose a roofing material that is resistant to extreme weather conditions to avoid roof damage. For hotter areas, materials such as terracotta, concrete, and slate tiles, for example, are excellent choices. When building a home in a colder climate, you may want to use materials that retain heat, such as slate, metal, and asphalt shingles, to keep your home warm.

Maintenance Requirements

So, what exactly will it take to keep the roof in good condition? Is there a pattern to the day-to-day maintenance tasks? Will you need to recoat or repaint your walls as time goes on? How often will you be required to engage a contractor to perform expert maintenance on your property? How much does it cost to maintain a roofing system? Before you choose a roof, make sure you are comfortable with the upkeep requirements.

Weight Of The Roof

Take into consideration the roof’s weight; heavy materials may compromise the structural integrity of the structure. Instead, choose materials that will enhance rather than detract from the structural stability of your building’s structure. Keep in mind that as the building ages, its structural integrity begins to deteriorate. When it comes to homes built more than 40 years ago, it is critical to lessen the overall pressure on the structure by using a lightweight roofing material such as asphalt.

In case you need any architectural and structural design projects, feel free to contact us.