How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Home: 7 Important Aspects to Consider

Your roof may be failing or simply nearing the end of its lifespan, which means that it is probably time for a new one.

While roof replacement has numerous benefits, choosing a new roof is definitely not a simple process. There are many important aspects that may influence your decision, so take a look at what they are and choose the best possible roof for your home.

1. Home Style and Architecture

When it comes to the type of roof on your home, it is important to take into consideration the style and architecture of your property. 

Which style was it built in? Which colors prevail? Which roofing material and style would it go well with? These are some of the most important questions in this regard.

Whether or not you have a developed sense of aesthetics and know how to match styles and colors, it is important to do so, not only for the sake of curb appeal but for the sake of your home’s value as well. 

In some cases, you are even limited to certain roofing options, so make sure to consult with your roofing contractor on this matter. They will surely advise you and steer you in the right direction.

2. Roof Installation – New or Replacement Roof?

One of the vital factors to consider during your search for the best roofing system for your home is the application, i.e. the installation of the roof. This process will vary depending on your current roof and property.

What this means is that there is a difference between applying a new roof to a brand-new structure and replacing your current roof. 

When it comes to the former, your options are practically unlimited, as the new roof will not depend on any existing components. Everything will be installed from the beginning, including the underlying structures.

When it comes to replacing your existing roof, there are certain things that must be taken into consideration. You will have to consider the existing elements, the pitch, and the existing roof materials, and then conclude which roofing materials are the best match for your replacement roof. 

Of course, most of these considerations will be handled by your roofing contractor, but you have to be aware of them as well and familiar with them in order to make the best final decision. 

3. Roof Slope

When it comes to roof slope or pitch, it is also a vital aspect that will affect your roofing material choices. Certain roofing materials require more or less slope than others, which is why your options will be limited depending on your existing structure.

Of course, as is the case with the previous consideration, if you are adding a completely new roof to a new structure, then you will have the option to choose everything – from the very slope to the roofing material.

When it comes to existing roof structures, with or without a slope, you will have to make your decision based on the slope itself. For example, an asphalt shingle roof, one of the most popular roofing choices with homeowners, requires a minimum of the so-called 4-in-12 slope. This means that your roof should rise 4 inches every 12 inches of its length.

You don’t have to remember the numbers yourself, of course, we are simply giving you an example of how these slopes are referred to in the roofing business. But it is always good to know some of the most important roofing terms when talking to your roofer. 

4. The Climate 

There are more and less resistant roofs on the market today, which, naturally, vary in prices as well. What you need to consider here is your local climate and the weather that you usually get.

The best solution is to always choose the most durable and weather-resistant roofing material there is so that you are certain that you have the best possible protection. The strongest and most durable roofs pay off significantly in the long run, as there will be significantly fewer roof repairs needed in the future as well as little to no maintenance.

However, if you live in mild climates and areas that don’t receive harsh weather, severe storms, and high winds, then you can opt for a slightly more affordable roofing material that is designed to hold up well in milder climates.  

5. The Price

One of the first things that comes to any homeowner’s mind when talking about roofs is the price. A new roof a significant investment that may take a toll on your home budget, but it is also one of the most important investments that you will make in your life.

Therefore, it is important to make a good, sound, and informed decision. What most experts recommend is investing in a high-quality, durable roofing system that has a long life span because this pays off greatly in most cases. 

With such a roof, there is less risk of a roof malfunction, damage caused by the weather or any other unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, it is less likely that you’ll need to invest a significant amount of money into future roof repairs. With such a roof, you probably have a roofing system that will last you for the rest of your life.

These roofs may have a higher price tag, but they will cost you less in future repairs, additional costs, and potential replacements.

6. Local Building Codes and the HOA

State and local building codes may vary, so it is very important to get informed and abide by all of them. They are here to protect your home, your roof, and your investment and to make sure every roof is installed adequately and according to regulations. 

In addition to that, many neighborhoods and residential areas have an established Homeowners Association that also has its own rules and regulations. These serve to maintain certain levels of quality, style, and value throughout the neighborhood.

You should inform yourself whether there are such regulations in your area and make sure that the roofing material you desire is acceptable. If you hire a local roofer with a good reputation in your community, chances are that they will already be familiar with all the codes, rules and/or restrictions. 

7. Curb Appeal 

If, as mentioned in the previous section, there is an HOA in your area, then they will probably have some rules on the types, colors, and styles of shingles and materials that are acceptable. These regulations are usually there to maintain the overall style and curb appeal of the entire street, neighborhood or area.

If there are no such regulations, on the other hand, you should still make sure that your home does not stand out too much from the rest of the surrounding homes, buildings, as well as nature. 

Try choosing colors and styles that will match your home and create a great harmony with the rest of the colors and elements on it, as well as with the surrounding homes.

These efforts will not only increase your curb appeal but the overall value of your home as well.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect new roof for your home is neither a small nor a simple task. However, if you follow our advice, consider all of these important aspects, and work together with your best local roof replacement contractor, you will undoubtedly make the best decision.