Putting a new roof together requires a lot of different materials. Those materials also better be of the utmost quality if you want your roof to last you and your family for decades without any significant issues. To that end, here are some considerations to keep in mind when picking out materials for your new roof.
Start with a Strong Support System
Most people spend a lot of time thinking about what kind of shingle they want for their roof, but good roof construction starts before the first shingle is put down. A top-quality shingle isn't going to do you much good if you are putting it down on a faulty support beam or an old tension bar that isn't up to the job. Take a look at your roof's support structure once all old shingles are removed to see if you need to make any changes before putting the new shingles down. If you don't know what you're doing here, contact a roofing contractor for assistance.
Don't Forget to Insulate
The hardy materials that put together your roof are only part of the story when it comes to picking out the right roofing materials. Maintaining proper roof insulation should also be a top priority of every homeowner. Completely redoing your roof is a great opportunity to take a look at your insulation as well. A home without the right insulation is going to let too much outside air in while leaking air from the inside. Trying to go cheap on insulation will likely result in a higher energy bill. Failing to properly ventilate between your insulation and your roof materials will likely cause damage to your roof. Roofing contractors are adept at inspecting the insulation and ventilation in the attic or elsewhere at the top of your house in order to ensure that everything is as it should be.
Consider Longevity and Long-Term Maintenance
Asphalt shingles remain very popular as a roofing material and well-constructed ones can last for up to 30 years. But there are other types of roofing materials you may want to consider. Slate shingles are considered a premium material and you will pay for it, but slate can last considerably longer than asphalt, perhaps up to an entire century with proper maintenance. You could also go with a curve ball like a metal roof if you want to significantly cut down on maintenance going forward.
Contact a roofing contractor or visit a site like https://www.diromaroofing.com/ to learn more about the roofing materials you intend to use for your next project.