3 Questions to Consider Before Getting a New Roof

If you're in the market for a new roof, you probably have a lot of questions. However, before you start calling for quotes, you should have an outline of what you want. This includes your budget, goals, and additional features. If you would like to learn more, keep reading.

1. What's Your Budget?

Depending on your budget, some roofing materials may be better than others. Asphalt roof shingles work in just about any climate, including the hot California weather. They are often the most affordable. Plus, many roofs that use asphalt shingles are flatter roofs, creating less surface area to replace when compared to a steeper roof.

Wood shingles are another affordable option. The downside to wood is that not only is it prone to water damage, but it is prone to damage from UV rays. UV rays can cause cracking as the wood becomes brittle. Therefore, to have a nice wood roof in California, you will need to maintain it more often than an asphalt shingle roof.

On the other end of the spectrum are clay tile roofs. These are amazing for hot weather. The clay helps absorb a lot of the heat before it enters your home. Plus, the design often allows for air to travel under the tiles. However, clay tiles are often costly. Yet, because of the higher price, you also get a roof that could last 100 years.

2. What Are Your Roofing Goals?

Naturally, everyone usually wants the roof to keep the elements out of the house. However, as technology advances, roofs can do more and more. So, before you choose your next roof, list your goals. One common goal, especially in hotter climates, is to choose a roof that will naturally help keep the house cooler inside.

You can do this in multiple ways. First, choose a material like clay that will better absorb the heat. However, regardless of what you choose, make sure to pick lighter colors to reflect the sunlight rather than absorb it.

For this reason, slate tiles, which are often dark grey or black, may not be the best choice for heat reduction. Lighter-colored stone tiles, however, may be a good idea because the stone will act as a natural insulation.

Membranes, like modified bitumen sheet membranes, which are more common on commercial buildings, have started to be used on residential homes too for their many benefits. This membrane is a great insulator to reduce the amount of heat gain inside your home.

3. Do You Want Additional Features?

If you want any additional features, make sure to list them before you speak with your roofing contractor. For example, skylights can brighten up a home. However, improper installation could lead to leaking down the line. For this reason, construct the new roof and skylights together so they better fit.

If you've considered an asphalt roof, do you want it to look like every other roof or stand out? Many asphalt roofs have 3-tab shingles, but more and more people have turned to architectural roofing shingles. These shingles are designed so each shingle isn't an exact duplicate of the one next to it. This gives the roof a more textured and interesting appearance.

Finally, talk to your roofing contract or about roof sealants. You probably don't need to worry about water protection, but many roofing sealants are also designed to protect the roof from UV rays and heat.

A new roof may not below-priced, but it is a worthwhile investment for your home. For this reason, you likely want the best roof for your home and climate. If you would like to learn more, or if you are ready for a quote, contact us at All American Roofing today.