You’re a responsible property owner. So, you recognize that repair and maintenance projects are, in essence, a never-ending to-do list. You might think it’s time for a new roof for your home or place of business.
That means you’re interested in the different types of roofing materials to choose from. Choosing your roofing type can make all of the difference depending on your top priorities. You might be more concerned about price over aesthetic design, for example, or vice versa.
The thing is, you’re not alone in considering investing in your property. Statistics show that the average homeowner spends one to four percent of the property’s overall value on improvement projects each year. If it’s time for your property to get a new roof, keep reading to choose the ideal material and style.
What Is Your Overall Goal with a New Roof Installation?
Before you start to look at the different types of roofing materials, it’s important to look at your goals. What are your top priorities when it comes to investing in a new roof? Do you care about aesthetic design over long-lasting durability, for example?
Another important thing to think about is the cost of your new roofing project. You want to ensure that the project’s financial cost will be worthwhile in the long run.
Perhaps your roof was damaged in severe weather, and it needs to be replaced. Well, make sure you research your property insurance policy to see if at least partial coverage is available. Even industry experts encourage you to make a home insurance claim to cover serious roof damage if you can at all.
Take the time to look at your available budget for this roofing project. If you’re looking to save as much money as possible just to get the job done, keep reading to see which material is ideal for you.
The Basic Types of Roofing Materials for Homes and Businesses
The most affordable (and, therefore, most popular) roofing material throughout the United States is asphalt. Asphalt shingles, also called composite shingles, are affordable and widely available. You see these shingles on most “suburban” homes.
While asphalt shingles may not be as long-lasting as other roofing materials, they’ll still do well for your project. You can expect this roofing material to keep your property and assets safe from the elements for a lifespan of up to twenty years. It’ll be up to you, though, to maintain and care for the roof over the years to keep up its quality.
Perhaps you’re interested in a more modern aesthetic when it comes to your new roof. Well, consider slate shingles with edges that look a little bit crisper and sleeker than asphalt ones.
Slate shingles are also just a little bit more reliable than composite ones. You might be able to notice this in time when it comes to protection from extreme temperatures or potential water leaks.
It’s true that you’ll be paying more for a slate roofing project. The main thing you’re purchasing with this roofing material is longevity. It has a typical lifespan of even up to one hundred years!
Another roofing material more durable than composition shingles is metal itself. Standing seam metal (often aluminum) can withstand severe weather more than most other roofing materials. If you’re looking for the ultimate protection for your corporate warehouse, for instance, a strong metal roof might be just what you need.
For more specific advice, check out this guide on how to choose the best type of roof for your home. Then, whether you know what roofing material you want or not, it’s time to reach out to the experts.
Only Hire Reliable Roof Installation Experts
Choosing from different types of roofing materials is only part of the decision-making process for this project. You also need to ensure you’re only working with roofing contractors who have your best interests in mind as a client. You don’t want to get taken advantage of.
That’s why you should do some research about potential roofing installation services in your area. Check out anything you might find when searching for a company on Google. Is there any obvious history or unethical or illegal practices, for instance?
Next, it’s always a great idea to look for online reviews or testimonials from previous customers of a company you’re looking to hire. This insight could indicate whether you could expect a positive experience from a roofing contractor, too.
Also, when you do start to reach out to your new roofing contractor, don’t be afraid to evaluate their overall attitude and customer service. No matter what, you deserve to feel comfortable with anyone you hire to work on your property.
Ask Around for Advice on Choosing a New Roof!
Don’t underestimate the power of a good recommendation from a trusted friend or family member. Before you make decisions about your new roofing project, be willing to ask around for advice.
You might find that someone you know has had a recent roof update. Ask plenty of questions about who installed it, what the project cost, and what roofing material was chosen.
Having these kinds of conversations with trustworthy people in your life might help you make the best choice for your project’s roofing material. Later when you’re project is complete, don’t forget to recommend your roofing contractor to others, too!
Hire Professional Roofing Services Today
By this point, you have a thorough knowledge of the different types of roofing you can choose from. Whether you’re upgrading your home or your business, a new roof could be just the improvement project you need. That’s why you’ll take the above guidance to heart.
In addition, it’s in your best interest to ensure you’re hiring only trustworthy roofing services. That’s where our team of experts can come into play. We offer innovative and reliable roofing solutions to property owners like you.
Whether you need a roofing repair or a complete installation, our team is here to help. We encourage you to browse through the rest of our roofing services to see how we could benefit you.
6. Will You Give Me a Free Estimate?
As always, costs are important. It doesn’t matter if you’re a homeowner or a business owner. Before hiring a company, reach out to your local roofing contractors to get a free quote for your roof.
Then, compare and contrast prices. However, make sure you know what each pricing model entails. The cheapest option isn’t always the best option.
For example, a super cheap roofing contractor may not:
- Offer warranties
- Have a license or insurance
- Use quality materials
- Have professional experience
- Etc.
Make sure you know what you’re getting with each company that gives you an estimate. If they won’t give you a free estimate at all, they’re not worth your time. It’s likely because they know their prices aren’t competitive in the industry.
7. What Measures Do You Take to Protect Property?
Finally, as a property owner, it’s important to ask roofing contractors what measures they’ll take to protect your property from damages. Obviously, this includes having liability insurance, as mentioned above.
However, there are other concerns, such as:
- Protecting your driveway and landscape from vehicles and roofing refuse
- Protecting your gutters from ladders and other damages
- Ensuring they look for underlying damages to your roof and report them to you
- Cleaning up after themselves (material waste, nails, etc.)
When the roofers finish the job and leave your property, you shouldn’t have to worry about new damages. However, accidents happen. When they do, it’s important that the roofing contractors make it right.
Are You in Need of Roofing Contractors?
If you’re in need of some local roofing contractors, we can help. We offer both residential and commercial roofing services for repairs and full replacements. Contact Fitz Roofing today to get a free estimate and see what we can do for you!
