The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Roofing Construction Material

Roofs serve as the first line of defense between you and the elements, keeping out rain, snow, wind and sun for many years to come. They must shed rain and snowfall while withstanding strong winds and the heat from the sun’s rays.

Understanding how different roofing materials perform over time will enable you to make more informed decisions when purchasing a roof replacement.

Cost

Selecting roofing construction materials that meet both your budget and architectural style needs can be daunting task, which is why professional roofers are there to assist in making an informed decision and guide the search for what could be your perfect match.

Your choice of roofing material will have an enormous effect on its ability to withstand weather conditions over time. Certain materials perform better in certain climates; you should also consider any fire risks in your area. If you live somewhere with high temperatures, for instance, select metal or tile roofing material which reflects sunlight rather than absorbing its heat.

Weight also impacts the total cost of roofing projects; some materials, like slate or terra-cotta tiles, require extra framing support to maintain structural integrity – increasing costs further. To minimize these additional expenditures, choosing lighter materials could be your solution.

Durability

Roof materials serve as the first line of defense between you and the elements, so it’s crucial that they can withstand rainstorms, snowfall and strong winds for years. Some materials might do better in your climate.

Asphalt shingles typically last 30-50 years before being recycled at their end of life, and are ideal for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly option with multiple color choices to match any architectural style of their home. Wooden shakes made of fireproof redwood or cedar provide natural insulation. Metal roofs last up to 50 years if properly maintained; these durable roofing options made of steel, aluminum or zinc alloy are more costly but provide greater strength than their alternatives.

Slate tiles, typically seen on steeply pitched roofs, offer class A fire resistance while offering an attractive aesthetic. Unfortunately, though, their installation and ongoing maintenance is both labor intensive and time consuming.

Maintenance

Your roof must be constructed with materials suitable to the elements in your area, in order to protect and extend its lifespan. Different materials are better equipped for specific climates – wood shingles can mold in wet environments and require regular treatment in order to remain weather-tight while metal panels and terracotta tiles may work better in hotter environments.

Roof appearance can make or break the overall aesthetic and style of your home. Select a material that blends in well with existing design vernacular. For instance, don’t use Spanish tile on a ranch style house, nor metal roofing on a colonial style one.

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the longevity of your roofing materials, including cleaning, clearing debris, and keeping it free from mildew, moss and lichen growth. Furthermore, replacing flashing may extend its useful life – this metal runs around chimneys where roof planes meet.

Appearance

Your choice of roofing material can have a dramatic effect on the aesthetics of your home. From matching your architectural style, to conforming with neighborhood design trends, aesthetic is always a factor when making this decision. New roofs often mimic existing materials’ appearance – asphalt shingles that resemble wood or slate are popular options; metal roofs may look like tiles or wood – while lighter hues help mitigate heat gain by reflecting more light onto surfaces below it.

If you’re planning on replacing your roof in Nashville, Franklin or Brentwood or any nearby Middle Tennessee city, contact us for more information on how we can assist with selecting an appropriate roofing construction material.