A roof remodel will add value to your home, especially if it is eco-friendly. In addition to improving your home’s value, modern roofs save you money on gas bills. Old roofs leak warm and cold air, meaning your A/C system will have to work extra hard to achieve the desired temperature in your house. Efficient roofing improves ventilation, keeping your home warm during winter and cool during summer. According to Energy Star, certified products promise as much as a 15% savings on energy bills. Lastly, a well maintained or new roof actually creates a healthier home. Years of exposure to moisture leads to a buildup of unwanted health concerns, such as hidden mildew or mold. 

This is the most common type of roofing material used in the country. Asphalt shingles work well with most home styles, especially traditional suburbs. They are generally the least expensive roofing option and very easy to install, making labor costs low. Asphalt shingles can be reinforced with materials like wood or fiberglass, without changing the material. These shingles provide reliable waterproofing and come in a variety of colors. Depending on the quality, asphalt shingles usually last about 20 years. Dark asphalt shingles are prone to fading, become inconsistent in coloring, and accumulate moss easier than other materials.

These tiles add texture and classic elegance to a home. Clay tiles are well-suited and compliment Spanish, southwestern, and mission style residences. They are non-combustible, meaning they won’t catch fire and are energy efficient. Clay and concrete tiles are both long-lasting (30-50 years). Ribbed or scalloped concrete and clay tiles are durable but heavy. Due to their weight, additional framing is typically installed by a qualified professional. Genuine tiles are more expensive than synthetics and require maintenance from time to time to prevent mold build-up or replace cracked areas.

This material can quickly beautify any home. Slate offers a distinctive natural-look that increases elegance. The variety of colors allow for a unique home personality. Slate complements colonial and European chateau homes. They are fire-resistant, invulnerable to rot, and withstand weather conditions well. Slate can easily last 50 + years. However, slate tiles or shingles can easily be broken underfoot, making cleaning and gutter clearance difficult. Slate is heavy and usually requires additional framing. This makes installation challenging, driving up labor costs.

Available in two types, shingles or panels, metal roofs are usually made of aluminum, copper, zinc, or stainless steel. They have a modern look, making it a great option for sleek city homes. In addition, their durability makes them ideal for cabins and cottage-style residences. Metal roofs are resistant to harsh weather conditions and are long-lasting (40-75 years). They will not corrode or crack, ultimately reducing the need for maintenance. It reflects the sun’s rays well, and therefore keeps your house cool. Metal roofs are safe and will not spark and ignite into flames during a wildfire or lightning strike. Additionally, these roofs are environmentally friendly, almost always be comprised of recycled materials and can even make great rain capturing devices. Although metallic roofs have many benefits, they may not be the best fit for every home and lifestyle. They usually cost more than $10 per square foot. Also, metal roofs may not look great depending on the architecture of your home (i.e. older, classic styles).

Natural, appealing, and the original roofing choice for hundreds of years. Homeowners with wood shakes and shingles love the classic appeal and how they maintain an attractive look throughout the years. Wood looks great on rustic style homes like cottages and Tudor homes. They work well in most climates, but especially well in hot and sunny areas as they resist UV damage. Their durability promotes a lifespan of 25 years or more. Depending on your personal preference you can choose between wood shakes which are made by hand or wood shingles, which are typically cut by machine. Shakes have a rougher look and shingles have a more sharp, precise cut. This type of roofing option is an eco-friendly choice as it can be made of recycled wood or harvested in a sustainable manner. Like most wood products, wood roofing material is prone to fire, mold, rot, or splitting.

The most modern option, synthetic products include rubber, plastic, and different polymers. Synthetics come in a variety of colors, textures, and can replicate wood or slate. Some are fire-resistant, strong, and easy-to-maintain. The abundance of options allow you to tailor your roof to fit your exact desire and needs. Synthetics are highly flexible in design choice, meaning they can work well on any style home. Typically, they are less expensive than natural products and weigh less. To ensure reliability and quality, it’s important to select synthetic materials that have been on the market for at least 10 years. Newer products haven’t faced the test of time. Due to the many types of synthetic products and designs, selecting the right material for your home’s style and geographical location can be challenging. Some synthetic products absorb water more readily, while other products can be flimsy. Asking your professional roofing contractor which are the common materials in your area will help give you an idea of which to choose.