Roofing can come in a massive variety of materials and styles, and outside of planned communities, can often vary between building to building. If you need new roof installation, know your options so you can make an informed decision that will not only save you the most money, but also increase the value of your property in the long run. This guide to different roofing options will help you make your decision on your roofing choice, and also who you should trust to install it for you.
This guide to different roofing options is going to cover tips ranging from material and aesthetic options, to what to expect from an installation company.
1. Roof Type
First things first, let’s discuss the type of roofing: the more common ones include shingles, tiles, and slate (which is in a category of its own as both a material and a method of roofing).
- Shingles are by far the most common roofing material used in the US, are the cheapest and easiest to install. However, they come in a rather narrow array of materials, and don’t afford much customization. They are also the least durable and arguably the least waterproof. Shingles require fairly regular maintenance due to normal wear-and-tear, not to mention they may need replacing if a violent enough storm passes through.
- Tiles are more of an in-between option. They come in a much wider variety of materials and styles, are more waterproof and durable than regular shingles, but as a result are mildly more expensive. Tiles allow for much greater customization than shingles and slate due to the wide variety of shapes and materials they’re available in.
- Slate is the most expensive roofing option available, but for good reason- it is the most durable roofing material on the market, as well as the heaviest, and, some would say, the most aesthetically pleasing. It takes a very experienced group of professionals to install slate roofing due to the specific way in which it needs to be installed. This will ensure that there are no leaks, and if installed properly, it should last for centuries. Slate needs the least regular maintenance due to its durability, and it can add to significant value to your property.
2. Roofing Contractor
Who you hire to do the job can drastically affect the quality of work, especially if you choose a more complicated roofing type. Most any roofing company can install shingles properly, but many are prone to making potentially ceiling-damaging or even structurally dangerous mistakes when working with heavier materials like slate.
Despite being the cheapest, lightest, and arguably easiest to install, even shingles, if not properly installed, can lead to roof and interior damage, water leaks, and worse. These risks only increase when more complicated roofing options like tile and slate become part of the mix. Tiles often feature interlocking designs that can be difficult to put up quickly. Additionally, slate has a host of its own particular problems, which means that you should hire a professional roofing company to properly install this type of roofing.
3. Shopping around
Next up, a refresher on something we’ve already covered in a previous guide. In short, try to prioritize contractor reputation and quality of previous work when considering who to hire to install your roof. Communication is also an important factor in projects like these, so try to discover how you get along with the customer service of any company you’re considering.
Decades of operation have lent our team to a great repository of professional experience and expertise. Integ Roof and Gutter is a manufacturer-approved installer of most major brands of roofing material. We also have a dedicated team of roof-installation professionals standing by to answer any questions you may have about the roofing options available.
Every project is supervised by the owner of the company himself, and great care is taken to not disturb the rest of the property during installation, including your lawn, trees, landscaping, or garden. Don’t hesitate to view the Roofing Information page and contact Integ Roof and Gutter for your free quote and more information regarding roof installation.