By the year 2021, the roofing industry is expected to reach a valuation of $19.9 billion.
Clearly, lots folks are or are planning on shelling out for new roofs in the near future. Are you one of them? Are you having a hard time deciding what type of roof you want? Check out our Gresham roofing company for more types of roofing guides.
Making plans for a new roof can be a daunting task. We’re here to help, though. Read on for some guidelines that will help you select roofing materials and styles for your dream home.
Most Popular Types of Roofs
First, let’s go over some of the most common roofing styles you might want to choose for your home. All of these are great options to consider:
Gable Roofs
When most people draw a house from memory, they draw a house with a gable roof. Gable roofs are classic pitched roofs with two sloping sides that originate from a center point.
Gambrel Roofs
A gambrel roof is another popular option. Gambrel roofs feature four sides and two slopes, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper slope. Gambrel roofs also have short ends that are vertical gables, and these ends jut out over the edge of the house.
Flat Roofs
As the name suggests, a flat roof is flat and simple to build. They have a very modern look to them, but they’re not ideal for very wet areas since they don’t drain well.
Skillion Roofs
Skillion roofs are also known as shed roofs. They consist of a single plane that’s slanted so it’s high on one side and low on the other. It creates a unique, one-of-a-kind look for those who like the modern style but don’t live in an area where flat roofs make sense.
Most Popular Roofing Materials
Now, let’s move on to the materials. There are lots of different materials you can use when
constructing your dream roof, including the following:
Asphalt Shingles
Of all the roofing materials used in the United States, asphalt shingles are the most common option. They’re affordable and come in a variety of colors, so they can work for all kinds of houses. They tend to not last as long as some other types of roofing materials, though.
Clay/Concrete Tiles
In warm climates, tiles made of clay or concrete are a popular alternative to asphalt shingles. These tiles will add texture and a sense of elegance to your home.
Whether you choose clay or concrete tiles, you can rest easy knowing they’ll last a long time. They are heavy, though, and can be quite expensive.
Metal
Metal roofs are popular for many home types, especially those who are looking for a more modern style.
Metal roofs are sleek, long-lasting, and can resist harsh weather conditions with ease. They also offer solar reflectance. On the downside, though, metal roofing materials are often expensive.
Slate
Slate is an alternative to asphalt tiles that you may want to consider if you prefer the asphalt look but want a more durable option.
Slate lasts a long time and is a sustainable and recyclable roofing material option. It is more expensive than asphalt, though.
Wood Shakes
For those who prefer the rustic look for their houses, wood shakes are a good choice to consider.
Wooden shakes have been used for a long time as a popular roofing material that’s natural and long-lasting. They’re not allowed everywhere, though, and you’ll have to take special precautions to prevent mold and mildew from developing on them.
Synthetic Tiles
Finally, you may want to consider synthetic tiles. Synthetic roofing tiles are made of materials like plastic, rubber, and polymer but are meant to look like slate or other roofing materials. Synthetic tiles are less expensive, but they still provide a great look and can last for a long time.
How to Select Roofing for Your Home
There’s a lot to think about when choosing the roof for your home. Here are some more factors you should take into account when making plans for your roof:
Consider Your House Structure
Start by assessing the structure of your house. What kind of roofing style will best match the type of house you have?
If you live in an old farmhouse, for example, a modern flat roof might look a bit odd. A gable or gambrel roof might be a better fit.
Think About Your Location
Be sure to compare roofs in your area, too. What kind of roofs do your neighbors have? Do you want to match the style of the neighborhood?
What kind of roof makes sense for the climate in which you live? If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain, a flat roof would be a bad choice. It also would be ideal to choose a material like wood for your shingles.
Know Your Budget
Of course, you have to think about your budget. What can you afford to spend on a new roof? Certain types of roofs and roofing materials are more cost-effective than others, so take that into account before you fall in love with an option that’s way outside of your price range.
Check the Building Codes
Find out what the building codes are in your area, too. Some neighborhoods and homeowners associations might have rules when it comes to the type of roof you can build or the type of materials you can use.
Get Several Quotes
Before you agree to work with a particular roofing company, get quotes from several options. This gives you a chance to compare and contrast prices, timelines, and previous work to ensure you’re making the right decision.
Update Your Roof Today
Now that you know more about how to select roofing types, materials, and more, are you ready to get to work?
Follow the instructions laid out above as you begin your journey to a new roof. You’ll have one that you’re proud to show off before you know it.
If you’re looking for more home improvement advice, check out the Architecture section of our site today. You’ll find lots of other helpful articles there that will help you create the home you’ve always dreamed of having.
