A new roof is one of the most expensive home improvement projects owners may have to tackle. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your roof, you may be surprised by the number of important decisions you’ll have to make. This includes figuring out your financing, choosing a great roofer, and deciding on the best roofing materials for your home.
When it comes time to choose your roofing materials, you may be surprised by the number of options available. Each option brings varying costs, quality, and aesthetics. Not sure which to choose? Start by reviewing the pros and cons of the following five popular roofing options.
- Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are the most common choice for homes in the United States. The popularity comes from the fact that it’s fairly inexpensive, comes in a variety of colors, and is easy to install.
When choosing the material, however, you’ll need to be careful as the quality can vary. Asphalt also doesn’t offer much insulation and has a shorter lifespan than some other types of roofing materials
The cost of asphalt roofing typically runs between $70 and $120 per square foot and the average lifespan is about 20 to 25 years. - Wood
Wood shingles have been a staple among homeowners for hundreds of years. They offer a rustic look that adds a ton of personality to the home and they age beautifully. Some popular options include cedar, southern pine, and redwood.
Although this is an attractive option, wood roofing can split, rot, or mold in wet climates. Homeowners in fire-prone areas may also decide that wood roofing isn’t the best choice for them.
The average cost of wood roofing is $100 to $150 per square foot and the lifespan tends to range between 25 and 30 years. - Metal
If you’re looking for a durable and environmentally-friendly roofing material, then metal roofing might be a great choice for you. It looks great on contemporary homes, bungalows, and cottage-style homes.
One drawback is that metal roofing tends to be more expensive than some of the other options. Depending on the style you choose, you can pay anywhere from $100 to $800 per square foot. However, it’s a great investment. Metal roofs have an average lifespan of 40 to 75 years. - Clay
Clay roofing is both beautiful and durable. It’s popular among owners of Mediterranian, Spanish-style, and Southwestern-style homes. It’s also non-combustible, energy-efficient, and has an expected lifespan of 40 to 50 years. Clay tiles are very heavy and will usually require extra framing and professional installation. The cost ranges between $300 and $500 a square foot. - Slate
Want to invest in a home improvement that will really add value? Consider a slate roof. It’s one of the most beautiful types of roofing you can choose, and it’s also durable, fire-resistant, eco-friendly, and long-lasting. The average lifespan is 50 to 100 years or more!
Many homeowners find that a slate roof is out of their price range as the starting cost is about $600 per square foot. It’s also quite heavy, requires extra framing, and must be professionally installed.
Some Final Tips
Before making your final decision, you’ll need to consider a wide variety of factors includingyour budget, the environmental conditions where you live, and the overall look you want to achieve.
Since replacing your roof is definitely your run-of-the-mill DIY home improvement project, you might also consider asking your roofing company to help you determine which material is the most appropriate for your home and the goals you’re trying to achieve.
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