Does the roof on your home, or at your place of business, need to be replaced? This is the time when many people learn that a lot more goes into a roof refit than simply putting a few tiles in place, and if you are aiming for something different, what do you need to think about for your new roof?
Material
Most people are familiar with shingle roofs, as they are, by far, the most common and the most affordable for many homeowners. However, their upkeep, especially in areas of high winds, can be costly, pushing many home and business owners towards other materials.
Metal roofing is becoming more common due to its durability, but you will need a specialised metal roofing contractor to fit it, to ensure it is installed correctly. When choosing the material for your roof, you need to think about initial costs versus longevity.
Roof Type
What type of roof do you currently have, and which type are you replacing it with? The most common residential roof is the gable roof (two sloping sides meeting in the middle) and the hip roof. If you are aiming to change the shape of the roof, more structural work and planning will be needed. If you switch from a gable roof to a mansard roof (shaped like a pyramid with four small triangles meeting in a point), this will take longer and cost more due to beam reshaping.
Maintenance
Some roofs require more maintenance than others, with metal options requiring the least maintenance and 3-tab asphalt shingles requiring the most upkeep. You need to be realistic about how much time and money you can dedicate to maintaining the roof and how happy you are with regular inspections (if needed) and professional repairs occurring.
The average life span of a roof is between 15-30 years, and, for each type, there are different requirements to keep it standing. So, do your research and choose wisely.
Aesthetic
Do roofs really have an aesthetic appeal? Yes, and if you are having a roof replacement, this is something to consider, especially if you are a business owner who wants to add a timeless look to your store, or if you are a homeowner who is planning to sell their property soon.
Ideally, you will aim to match the roof to the home’s design and, if possible, you will want one that also has a timeless charm, which can add to the value of the property, or to the appeal of your store or business.
Your Local Climate
Not all climates are the same, and so, not all roofs are either. If you live or work somewhere that has high winds, a lot of rain, and scorching summers, you will need a roof that can handle all of these without succumbing to damage.
When the roof is fitted, you will need to hire a contractor who can advise you on the suitability of your new roof, based on structural integrity and potential vulnerabilities of each material. This will help you to choose a roof that will last long-term.
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