When it is time to reroof their house, many homeowners are left in awe of the many types of roofing materials available for the home. The kind of roofing material homeowners purchase comes down to the type of home they have, their budget and their desire to “go green.” Whether a homeowner chooses traditional asphalt shingles, wood shingles or shakes, or ceramic tiles, they must also make decisions regarding the manufacturer, color and style of their new roofs. There are so many things to consider when choosing quality roofing materials, it may feel difficult to narrow down the choices. However, if homeowners narrow down their search by considering three important factors, the search for a new roof can become much easier. By considering the lifespan, the price, and the energy efficiency of the materials, homeowners can narrow down their search and begin building faster.

3 Elements of Quality Roofing Materials

Lifespan

The expected lifespan of the roofing materials is one of the most important factors in choosing quality roofing materials because this will ensure that the product is of value and can improve the return on your investment. Traditional asphalt shingles may come with a life guarantee of 15 to 20 years on the low end and 35 years on the high end. Ceramic tiles can last decades longer than traditional shingles; however, they require more skill in the installation. When homeowners purchase new roofing materials, they will need to consider how long their new roof will last so that they do not have to replace the roof again in the near future.

Price

The price of materials is often the biggest factor in making a decision about quality roofing materials. Everyone wants to get the best product for the best price. When homeowners look at roofing materials, they should consider the value of the products alongside the price. By installing cheap shingles on a home, the upfront cost may be lower, but it may result in frequent repairs or even an entire re-roofing before it should be necessary. The price will often come down to the material that the product is made from. High-end products like ceramic and wood will often cost more than asphalt shingles because they require careful craftsmanship as well as natural resources to make. Ceramic and wood shingles also require more skill than traditional asphalt shingles, so the price rises not only through the materials, but through the installation as well.

Climate & Energy Efficiency

More and more homeowners consider energy efficiency when deciding on a new roof. Energy efficiency will vary between different manufacturers, but it is important to consider because the right materials can save homeowners money on energy bills. This is especially important in climates with significant temperature changes where preventing warm air from leaving through the attic during the cold winter months can make a large impact on energy bills.

The roof is one of the most important elements of a home and choosing the right roofing materials can make a big difference in protecting it. By considering the life of the materials alongside their price and energy efficiency, homeowners can make informed decisions about their new roof and make sure that they install the right products for their home.