As your home’s primary defense against the elements, your roof needs to remain damage-free and intact at all times. Just as with your siding, if your roof sustains significant damage, it likely needs to be replaced.
The thought of installing a new roof can be intimidating. As a result, some homeowners procrastinate with this task, thinking they can avoid it for awhile without serious repercussions. Delaying this home improvement project, however, will only lead to more serious problems.
To help you make the right decisions, Bradford Xteriors, a roof replacement contractor in the area, discusses the things to consider when preparing for a roof installation.
Choosing the Right Material
You have a number of options when it comes to roofing materials, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision:
Service Life
When you invest in a new roofing system, you want it to last for a long time. Certain materials are better than others when it comes to longevity. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular materials in the country, with a relatively low upfront cost and an average lifespan of around 20 years. Metal roofing, on the other hand, can last as long as 50 years with proper maintenance.
Many factors can affect your roof’s service life. Proper installation is key to your roofing system’s long-lasting performance, which is why it’s important to work with the best roofer for this project. This will help you avoid the risks of botched roof replacement, which can jeopardize your home’s integrity.
Weather Protection
Your roofing system is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It also helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, no matter what the temperature is outside. To gauge a roof’s weather performance, determine its wind resistance. You also need to know whether it can withstand debris or hail impact. Pick a roofing material that won’t succumb easily to torrential rainfalls and high winds, especially during a storm.
Fire Ratings
To add an extra layer of protection to your home, ask your roof replacement contractor to install a roofing material with the highest fire ratings. You’ll then have one less thing to worry about, especially if you’re in a fire-prone area.
Considering Roof Design
The design of your roof is another important consideration. Your roof takes up a significant portion of your home’s exterior and therefore can make or break your home’s curb appeal. You need to ensure that the roofing system you choose complements the other components of your home’s exterior for a cohesive effect.
Flat Roof vs. Sloped Roof
There are two general roof layouts: flat and sloped. The latter is more popular in residential homes since they are smaller in size than commercial buildings. The best roofer can also add more shape to your home by creating pitched roofs.
Flat roofs, on the other hand, are more common in commercial properties, although they are becoming increasingly popular in the residential sector, particularly in modern-style homes. Flat roofing systems have a sleek, industrial look that is perfect for contemporary homes.
Other Roofing Styles
You may also choose among several timeless styles for your roof replacement. For instance, the gable is a roof design that will give your home classic elegance and is also easy to install and maintain. The gable is a versatile roof design since it can match almost any shingle material.
You can also consider the skillion or shed roofing system. This style of roof features no adjoining slopes as it is pitched in only one direction. This is gaining more popularity in modern homes, whereas gable roofs are featured more in traditional houses.
Picking the Perfect Roofing Color
Choosing a roofing color for your home can be fun, but it’s something you should do carefully. You may ask the best roofer in the area for suggestions if you need some guidance. Here are some things to consider:
Neighborhood Ambiance
You want your home to be noticeable for its charm, but not so unique that it sticks out like a sore thumb. To ensure you’re striking the right balance, observe the prominent color palettes in your neighborhood before choosing a roof color. Pick a roof that will look good next to the other homes on your street.
You should also find out whether there are existing rules established by the homeowners’ association in the neighborhood when it comes to the siding or roofing color.
Home Style
Most importantly, choose a roofing color that matches your home’s style. You should also consider the existing components of your exterior. For example, houses with bold siding color may look better with a more toned-down hue for the roof. This will help prevent a color clash.
Count on Bradford Xteriors for your residential roof installation and maintenance needs. Our team will guide you through the entire process to ensure you make the most of your investment. Apart from roofing services, we also provide siding installation. Call us today at (614) 328-8188 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of Columbus, OH, and other nearby locations.