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A roof is the most important part of any home. It protects your family from the elements, it provides a space for relaxation and playtime, and it’s where you retreat to when you need some time alone. But what type of roof should you have on your home? The answer to that question depends on many factors, including your needs, location, climate and more. However, we can't stress it enough, knowing the answer to this question is just as important as knowing when a roof replacement is needed and what time of the year is best to do it. That’s why we created this article - to help you decide which type of roof is best for you!
1. Why Is Your Roof Important?
Roofs are important because they protect your home's interior from the weather and potential water damage with serious consequences. A slanted roof is not just aesthetic, it also helps catch water and divert it away from your home. Your roof is also one of the major items that affect your home insurance rates. It's also important to get a roof inspection before going through with any kind of repairs or improvements to provide for safety and longevity.
In addition, your roof is an excellent indication of the overall condition of your house. Roofs are easy to inspect and if there are problems, they can usually be spotted before they lead to major damage of other parts of the house.
2. Roof Types
There are many types of roofs, but here we will be focusing on the most common types which are asphalt shingle and metal roofs.
Asphalt shingle roofs are a good option if you want to have a classic look. They come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are easy to install and maintain. These shingles will need to be replaced once every 20 years or so.
Metal roofs are more durable and less prone to leaking than asphalt shingle roofs. Metal roofing is made of steel that is made to look like copper or aluminum. As oppose to asphalt shingle roofs, metal roofs only need to be replaced every 40-70 years.
Let's discuss the two in more detail.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
The asphalt shingle roof is a roofing material made of overlapping asphalt sheets that are not attached to each other. The most common type of asphalt shingle roof has two layers, with the inner layer used as an insulator that provides warmth in the winter and reflects heat in the summer. Asphalt shingles are also the most commonly installed roofing material in North America, with more than 70% of all homes having them.
Metal Roof
The metal roof is made of sheets of material such as aluminum and copper, designed to withstand wind, rain, and snow. It is an excellent option for those living in regions that experience extreme weather or high winds. The metal roof has the benefits of being fireproof and waterproof as well as energy saving. This type of roof can be designed to blend with the home's architecture which provides a visual aesthetic that many people find appealing.
3. Pros & Cons Of Each Type Of Roof
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Pros:
Asphalt shingle roofs are less expensive than other roofing materials including metal, tile, or slate.
The cost of an asphalt roof installation can be recouped in the first 10 years for those who plan on staying put.
There is limited maintenance to worry about with an asphalt shingle roof and it will last a while before needing replacement.
Cons:
They may wear out quicker than other types of roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs are more likely to leak
They're not as aesthetically appealing
Allergens and debris can build up on asphalt shingle roofing material, leading to mold contamination
Metal Roof
Pros:
Metal roofs last a lot longer than other types of roofs.
They are more aesthetically appealing and will reflect your home’s character
Your energy bills can be cut significantly because they improve your property's insulation, thereby reducing the heat transfer into or out of the house.
They are considered green because they do not emit any toxins that harm the environment, unlike asphalt shingles.
Cons:
The installation process is quite complex
They can be costly to install and maintain
There are a lot of types on the market and it can be difficult for homeowners to figure out which one best suits their needs
4. So Which Type Of Roof Should I Get For My Home, Metal Or Asphalt Shingle?
It all depends on your preference and how long you plan on living in your home. For those homeowners who are not going to be living in their homes for a long time, asphalt shingles would be the best option because of its low cost and limited need for maintenance. If the homeowner is looking for more aesthetic appeal and durability, metal roofing would be an ideal choice. Another factor to consider would be the amount of money they plan on spending, because the cost of a metal roof is higher than an asphalt shingle roof.
5. Final Thoughts On Which Type To Choose For Your Home
Being sure which type of roof is best for your home can be challenging. There are a lot of choices out there, but it can be hard to figure out what's right for you.
We know that the decision isn't easy, so we've created this handy guide to help you make the best choice. If you would Nova Construction to assist you in your journey of choosing the best roof for your property, please do not hesitate to reach out. To schedule a consultation give us a call at (509) 361-8697 or fill out our online form and we will reach out soon!
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