How to Determine the Right Roofing Material for Your Home

Some homeowners think they can choose a replacement roofing material based purely on aesthetics, but beauty isn’t the only thing that matters. Curb appeal is important, but your roof contributes to almost everything that makes your home livable — it provides insulation, protection and energy savings!

To determine the right roofing material for your home, Horizon’s Roofing recommends focusing on these seven important factors:

‍Weather endurance — Your local climate plays a big factor in the lifespan of your roof. Asphalt shingles last anywhere between 15 and 30 years, but with frequent winds, rain or snow, you may find yourself having to replace some (or all!) of your shingles more frequently. Hamilton is one of the windiest cities in the GTA, and homes closer to the lake tend to be more exposed to windy conditions. In this case, you would want to consider a more durable material like metal or slate. You should find out how each material reacts to the elements and climate in your area before deciding.

Price — A new roof is a big investment! Your budget will often determine what materials you can afford. The prices of roofing products differ significantly, and materials account for a significant portion of your project cost — but you also pay for labour and time during the project. Asphalt shingles are cheaper and easier to install than other materials. That makes them more affordable...but they last half as long as other materials and require more maintenance. Getting an estimate will help determine your budget for your new roof.

Looks —  A brand new roof can improve your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. But which option is better? Shingles come in different styles and colours (mainly black, grey, and brown), and metal roofs can be any colour! Slate tiles can add a Spanish-style look to your home. Whether you choose asphalt, slate, metal or other material, a new roof will always look sharp. Some materials stand out more than others, and if you are looking for something out of the ordinary to complement your home's style and increase its value, consider investing a little more.

Grading — To narrow down your list of materials, pay attention to your roof pitch. A roof’s pitch is your roof’s ability to drain water and can be a deciding factor in the material available to you. Asphalt shingles are the industry’s most popular choice, but it’s only because most residential roofs have a steep pitch.

Long-term maintenance — Buying a new roofing system is a decades-long commitment. While all materials need upkeep to last, some cost more money to maintain than others. For example, asphalt shingles can come loose over time, and while it’s a relatively easy fix, it may cost more in the long run than a metal roof built to last longer. 

Material weight — The heft of the material can affect your project’s timeline and labour cost. If you choose a heavier material than the one currently covering your home, structural adjustments might be necessary to ensure your home can support the added weight. An engineer is recommended (and often required) when adding significant weight load to your current structure.

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We can help!

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when deciding on the best roofing choice for your home. But there’s no need to do it alone. Horizon’s Roofing can guide you through your options and help you make a decision for your roof. Contact us today to get started.