“Keeping a roof over your head” is a famous quote, but what about putting a roof over your head? How to choose the right roof for your home comes with several considerations, from roofing materials to nailing the perfect colour. 

Here is a list of expert recommendations to help you select your roofing to complete your new build or renovation design.

Type of Material 

Roofing materials offer more than a few options to choose from. This includes shingles, cedar shake, metal, modified bitumen, or Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO). Within each option also comes the durability and available colour choices.

Consider durability, longevity, and replacement cost when choosing the roofing for your building. You want to weigh the budget to the product’s lifespan along with maintenance expectations before installation.

For example, asphalt shingles are between one to two dollars per square foot and can last up to 30 years. However, depending on the quality and colour, asphalt shingles may not hold up, especially after severe hail storms. 

Roof Shape and Size

Whether replacing an existing roof or choosing between new home plans, you want to weigh your options based on roof shape and size. Roof size will affect material and labour costs; however, your roof’s shape— specifically the pitch— can seriously impact the difficulty of maneuvering and installing your roof. The steeper the incline or more elaborate the shape of your roofline, the more your installation cost will go up.

Get estimates from roofing contractors based on your preferred materials, square footage, and any unusual design features or roof pitch. This approach will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when budgeting your project.

Furthermore, some homes have flat tops and require a different roofing approach than those with angled roofs. It is best to know what your home needs well in advance.

Roof Location

Homeowners sometimes focus solely on the house and selecting roofing materials but forget installation requirements.

If, after construction, your roof impedes rather closely to trees or other obstructions, this can be a hindrance for your installers and end up costing more labour time. Ensure you discuss existing trees, other buildings, and potential access problems with your roofing contractor. 

Roof location also influences what materials you should choose and what to avoid. For example, extended periods of heat make some roofing materials more suitable than others. 

Existing Roof

With home upgrades, your existing roof determines how much or minor work is required. For instance, if the roof structure is sound, reroofing with the same product may be simple and more affordable.

However, changing roofing materials may entail different underlayments or structural support. Double-check with your contractor and have them inspect the existing roof for a thorough appraisal of your needs.

Budget and Preferences

After careful research and a full inspection of your existing roof, you will have a good idea about how to choose the right roof based on your budget and roofing material preferences. 

Yet, even the best-laid plans can go awry. So have a first and second option in case of sudden shipping issues or product discontinuation. You wouldn’t be the first homeowner to finally make a selection only to find out the material or colour is out of stock or no longer available.

Getting the Right Advice and Expertise

Advice is only as good as the experience of the person giving it, and roofing is no exception. For your roof installation, quality materials, and repair, trust only the experts at The Roofman Inc. in the Waterloo, Ontario, region. 

As Master Elite contractors and a family-run business, their exceptional service and quality craftsmanship will easily guide you through the entire roofing process. Book your free consultation online or by calling us at 519-744-3830 today!