It is common for people to think that a roof protects one’s home from weather conditions. While this is true, it should not be the first thought a homeowner should have when building a house or purchasing a new roof. It has been proven time and again that how you install your roof determines if it can protect your property from any damages or leaks as well as provide you with energy savings depending on the material used. In order to make sure your home is protected at all times, you need to make sure you choose the ideal roofing materials. Before installing anything for your residential needs, consider these factors:
You need to know how much experience each contractor has in handling roofs. No matter how good their products are, if they have no idea how to install them, you are just wasting your money. You would be better off hiring a professional with the right skills in addition to using high-quality materials.
Type of Material
There are many different options when it comes to choosing residential roofing st louis materials for your home. For example, there are three main types of roofing shingles which include organic-based asphalt shingles, fiberglass shingles, and metal roofs. When considering these options, you should try looking at what type of climate you live in so you can choose the material that will last longer. For instance, asphalt shingles cost less but if you reside in an area where it snows often, then installing metal roofs is ideal because it does not easily break or bend.
You also have to think about the installation cost. While metal roofs are more expensive to install, it is a one-time investment that you will never have to worry about again. On the other hand, asphalt shingles need to be replaced every 10-12 years, and fiberglass shingles should be replaced every 15-20 years. So if you are looking for something that is low maintenance, metal roofs would be your best option.
The slope of your roof can also determine what type of material you should use. If your roof has a steep slope, then it is more susceptible to wind damage, and you will need a stronger material such as metal. However, if your roof has a low slope, then you can use asphalt shingles without any problems.
Professional Installation vs. Self-Installation
One of the main things to consider when choosing roofing materials is if you want to install it yourself or have a professional do it for you. Most people think that it is cheaper to install the roof themselves, but this is not always the case. If you do not have any experience in installing roofs, you are likely to make mistakes that will end up costing you more money in the long run. For example, you might not purchase enough material, which will lead to having to purchase more later on, or you might not seal the roof properly, which will cause water damage.
On the other hand, if you hire a professional to install the roof for you, they will make sure everything is done correctly and to code. They will also warranty their work in case of any problems. So, while professional installation may be more expensive up front, it is definitely worth it in the long run.
When choosing roofing materials for your home, there are many factors to consider. By thinking about the climate you live in, the type of material, and if you want to install it yourself or have a professional do it for you, you can make an informed decision that will best suit your needs.