Choosing the best roofing material for your home

Four walls do not make a house. It needs a roof to shelter you from the elements. The right roof can even enhance the overall appearance of the property, as well as boost its property value.

If you are having a custom home built or you plan to replace the roof of your current home, one of your tasks is to determine which type of roofing material will work best. Here are a couple of things to consider as you explore your options:

• Overall cost: Roofing materials come in a wide price range, depending on its inherent characteristics, including weight.
• Style: Some materials work best with certain architectural styles and home designs. For instance, clay roof tiles will give a Tuscan-inspired home an authentic feel. The local environment and climate can also have an impact on the style you choose.
• Durability: Roofing materials have different levels of durability, which impacts the work you need to do to maintain its quality and prolong its life.
• *Bonus: Compatibility to solar panels: If you are planning to install solar panels on your roof, it is important to make sure the roofing material you choose (and its color) can support them.

Different types of roofing materials

Here are some of the most common types of materials used in the United States.

• Composition asphalt: Seen throughout the U.S., composition asphalt is inexpensive, easy to install, and comes in a wide array of colors. Because of the selection, it can match different home styles, making it a convenient and low-cost option.
• Metal: Metal roofs are expensive, but their high durability and compatibility with modern architectural styles make the cost worth it. It comes in different colors and designs, such as standing seam. This kind of roof also gives older homes an updated touch.
• Clay: Clay roof tiles are considered premium. It is expensive and can give any property a luxury, old-world look. On the downside, clay roof tiles can break easily, driving costs even further in case of replacements.
• Concrete: Concrete roof tiles are durable, long-lasting, and can replicate other roofing materials, even clay. Most importantly, concrete tiles are affordable and accessible.
• Wood shingles and/or shakes: This roofing material is easy to work with and adds insulation to any house. Like clay tiles, wood shingles and shakes also lend a historic vibe. They can, however, be fire hazards.
• Slate: Slate tiles are versatile and also scores high when it comes to durability. It blends well with a variety of natural surroundings and architectural styles while offering long-lasting performance.

If you are going for an eco-sustainable route, you may also want to consider alternative roofing materials. You can opt for a living or green roof, which uses traditional roofing technology at the base. Long-term benefits include lower life cycle and energy costs, as well as reduced stormwater runoff.

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Feel free to browse our blog to find home design tips and other helpful articles about Methow Valley real estate and land for sale in Methow Valley.