One of the most important decisions homeowners in southeastern Pennsylvania can make concerns the material they want installed on their roof. This decision will not only round out the appearance of a home – it also involves considerations for protection against the elements, as well as longevity and maintenance requirements for the future.
This article will give you a starting point for your search, with helpful guidelines to choosing your home’s roofing material.
Deciding on roofing: questions to consider
Answering these basic questions will help you understand which materials are better candidates for your home:
- What is the cost of this material, and is it within my budget?
- Does this material have a long enough lifespan to make its installation worthwhile?
- Is the material available in a style that compliments the rest of my home?
- Is this material in-line with local regulations, like neighborhood codes and fire codes?
- Will this material withstand the typical climate of my area?
What are the most commonly-used roofing materials?
While there are lots of options for roofing materials, some are more common than others – and for good reason. All of these options offer their own advantages in terms of style, protection, and price:
- Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles take the cake as the most commonly used roofing material for several reasons. They have a relatively low price point when compared to other options, and are easy for roofers to install. They also come in a variety of styles and colors, so many homeowners are able to find an option that suits their needs – especially those living in a traditional suburb.
- Metal: Metal roofs can be installed as panels or shingles, so they offer versatility of appearance. Metal is a lightweight material and very resistant to adverse weather conditions. If the heat bothers you, metal is the best option in terms of solar reflectance.
- Synthetic materials: This umbrella category is home to the newest additions to roofing – including rubber, plastic, and other polymer composites. These laboratory-proven formulas offer greater protection and are easy to maintain. Rubber, in particular, is known to be fire-resistant.
- Cedar shake: Out of this list, cedar shake and other wooden materials are the most time-tested options. Wooden shingles are attractive to many homeowners for their classic appearance. Recent advancements in technology make this option more fire-resistant, with new coatings available to alleviate some concerns.
Once you feel you’ve made your decision and are ready to move forward, be sure to do a final check of your neighborhood or local area’s rules and regulations regarding home materials. The last thing you want is to be set on a roof style, only to realize that it doesn’t meet local standards.
Lastly, make sure to invest in a roofing company that you can trust to deliver the best results. Homeowners in Southeastern Pennsylvania need look no further than J L Roofing & Siding, the premier installation service in the area. We’ve served countless homeowners over the years, and would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding all aspects of your home’s structure. Give us a call for a free consultation today.