Buying a New Home? Know All the Roofing Options Available for You

1. June 30, 2017 Buying a New Home? Know All the Roofing Options Available for You A roof is an important part of your house. Not only does it add to the aesthetic and style value of your home, it also protects you and your family from the elements like the sun, rain, and snow. Choosing the perfect roof for your residence is not an easy task. There are many things to consider aside from style and function such as the installation process, the fire resistant property of the material, and possible future maintenance issues. Below are some of the materials most often used for a house roof, along with their individual pros and cons. Page | 1

2. Asphalt Shingles Over 80% residences in the United States use this type of roofing. They are made of either paper fiber mat or fiberglass infused with asphalt and coated with minerals. Both types are inexpensive, widely available, and easy to install. If you live in an area with cold weather and windy climate, paper fiber is the better option. On the other hand, fiberglass is perfect to protect against fire and moisture. Asphalt shingles are extremely versatile, as it comes in many colors and is suitable for many architectural styles. It is, however, not insulated and has a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. When buying this material for home use, pay attention to the quality of the material. Clay and Concrete Traditional elegance is the word that comes to mind when one sees a clay and concrete roof. They are durable and fire-resistant, as well as environmentally friendly. However, they are heavy and most likely need the help of a professional to install. Typically, they are also more expensive than asphalt shingles. Clay and concrete roofs suit homes with Spanish, Mediterranean, Mission, and Southwestern styles best. It comes in many shapes such as flat, ribbed, scalloped, or wood-like. Metal Metal roofs come in two types; sheets or shingles. They offer excellent protection from extreme weather conditions such as a storm or hurricanes. They are also lightweight and recyclable. Metal roofs last longer than asphalt shingles and clay or concrete roofs. The cost of metal roofs depends on the type of metal you choose. Generally, steel roof is moderately priced, while unfinished copper is more expensive. Metal roofing can complement the look of bungalows, cabins, and cottage-style homes. Page | 2

3. Synthetic Rubber, plastic, and polymer are some of the materials used in synthetic roofing. This type of material is increasingly popular because people can get the specific color, look, or texture they want that may not be available if they choose other materials. Synthetic roofs are not as fragile, heavy, or expensive as roofs using natural materials. However, homeowners must check if the product they want is resistant to fire and water. The concept of a perfect roof varies from person to person. To determine the best roofing materials, you need to know what you need and want. Are you looking for durability or a custom architectural look? Whichever it is, consulting a professional roofing company is the best thing you can do to find the ideal roofing for your home. About Lumin System: Lumin System is the number one expert on roofing in Colorado Springs. We understand that getting the perfect roof means getting the right balance between style and safety. We only use top quality materials for all of our clients and will assist homeowners in choosing a material that suits their needs best. Sources: Top 6 Roofing Materials, HGTV.com How to Choose a Roof for Your Home, TodaysHomeowner.com Page | 3