How to decide on the best roofing for your property
Providing warmth and protection against the elements, a roof that’s built right can last for years – so it’s not surprising that having an appropriate and top-quality roof is an essential part of every home. As a place to accommodate solar panels or skylights, your roofing choice can also have a major impact on the look, feel and performance of your home.
If you’ve just moved into a new home, or feel that the roof of your current one is looking worse for wear, then it may be time to get a new one. Roofs come in many different shapes and styles, so there are several factors to consider when deciding on the best roofing material for your property.
Materials
There are all sorts of different materials that roofs can be made out of – though some of the more quaint and attractive options, like thatch, are hardly suitable for most of us.
The shape of the roof also affects what kind of material can be used, and for heavy options, like slate and tiles, you need to ensure the house will hold its weight.
Pitched roofing from Burton Roofing is a popular choice, found on many homes, as it is durable and looks neat. Asphalt shingle is another favoured choice, due to its low price, while metal roofs are increasing in prominence – they’re costlier than traditional roof tiles, but highly weather resistant.
Aesthetics
As well as serving its practical purpose, you’ll obviously want a roof that also complements the rest of your home’s design. Clay tiles provide that traditional red finish that suits almost every home, while asphalt shingles possess a darker shade.
Then there’s the actual style. From flat and smooth metal sheets, to the bumpy ridges of tiles, there’s an abundance of choice. A lot will depend on the size and shape of your property’s roof, and it’s a good idea to use artist’s impressions before making a decision.
Energy efficiency
Heat rises, so a lot of energy from the home is lost through the roof. For this reason, you’ll want to find and install the most energy-efficient roof possible. For example, there are cool roofs that reflect sunlight better, ideal for warm countries, or – perhaps better for here in the UK – you can use a darker one to absorb more heat.
For a detached home you could even create a green roof, by making the most of shallow pits to plant shrubs or other plants. Green roofs can also provide extra insulation by being covered with a layer of grass or other plant life – so, just one of the many factors to think about before arranging for your new roof to be installed!
Photo credit: Elvis Santana
