5 Roofing Choices for Your Home

A new roof is one of the most expensive home improvement projects owners may have to tackle. If you've been thinking about replacing your roof, you may be surprised by the number of important decisions you'll have to make. This includes figuring out your financing, choosing a great roofer, and deciding on the best roofing materials for your home. 

When it comes time to choose your roofing materials, you may be surprised by the number of options available. Each option brings varying costs, quality, and aesthetics. Not sure which to choose? Start by reviewing the pros and cons of the following five popular roofing options. 

1. Asphalt 
   Asphalt shingles are the most common choice for homes in the United States. The popularity comes from the fact that it's fairly inexpensive, comes in a variety of colors, and is easy to install.
   
   When choosing the material, however, you'll need to be careful as the quality can vary. Asphalt also doesn't offer much insulation and has a shorter lifespan than some other types of roofing materials
   
   The cost of asphalt roofing typically runs between $70 and $120 per square foot and the average lifespan is about 20 to 25 years. 
2. Wood
   Wood shingles have been a staple among homeowners for hundreds of years. They offer a rustic look that adds a ton of personality to the home and they age beautifully. Some popular options include cedar, southern pine, and redwood.
   
   Although this is an attractive option, wood roofing can split, rot, or mold in wet climates. Homeowners in fire-prone areas may also decide that wood roofing isn't the best choice for them.
   
   The average cost of wood roofing is $100 to $150 per square foot and the lifespan tends to range between 25 and 30 years. 

3. Metal 
   If you're looking for a durable and environmentally-friendly roofing material, then metal roofing might be a great choice for you. It looks great on contemporary homes, bungalows, and cottage-style homes.
   
   One drawback is that metal roofing tends to be more expensive than some of the other options. Depending on the style you choose, you can pay anywhere from $100 to $800 per square foot. However, it's a great investment. Metal roofs have an average lifespan of 40 to 75 years.
4. Clay
   Clay roofing is both beautiful and durable. It's popular among owners of Mediterranian, Spanish-style, and Southwestern-style homes. It's also non-combustible, energy-efficient, and has an expected lifespan of 40 to 50 years.  Clay tiles are very heavy and will usually require extra framing and professional installation. The cost ranges between $300 and $500 a square foot. 

4. Slate
   Want to invest in a home improvement that will really add value? Consider a slate roof. It's one of the most beautiful types of roofing you can choose, and it's also durable, fire-resistant, eco-friendly, and long-lasting. The average lifespan is 50 to 100 years or more! 
   
   Many homeowners find that a slate roof is out of their price range as the starting cost is about $600 per square foot. It's also quite heavy, requires extra framing, and must be professionally installed.  

Some Final Tips

Before making your final decision, you'll need to consider a wide variety of factors including your budget, the environmental conditions where you live, and the overall look you want to achieve. 

Since replacing your roof is definitely your run-of-the-mill DIY home improvement project, you might also consider asking your roofing company to help you determine which material is the most appropriate for your home and the goals you're trying to achieve. 

• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage
• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
• Winterproofing Windows and Doors: A Guide to Keeping the Cold Out
• How to Future-Proof Your Home for Changing Needs
• Home Happiness 101: Small Upgrades That Can Make Every Day Feel Better
• Fall Cleaning Tips For Decluttering Before the Holidays
• How to Create a Cozy Fall Retreat in Your Backyard
• Why Fall is Prime Time for Window Replacement
• Tips for Transitioning Your Closet From Summer to Fall

• Why September Is the Best Month to Paint Your Home's Exterior
• End-of-Summer Pool Closing Tips

• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• How to Research Crime and Safety
• What Buyers Need to Know About Home Warranties
• Browsing for Homes Online? Follow These Shopping Tips
• How to Look Past Bad Staging
• What Happens If Interest Rates Change After You Buy?
• How to Compare Two Homes You Love
• Post-Holiday Finances: How to Reset Your Budget for Home Buying
• New Year, New Home: How to Set Smart Home-Buying Goals for the Year Ahead

• Looking Beyond Closets: How to Evaluate a Home's Storage Potential
• Time-Off Tips: Using Your Holiday Break for Real Estate Decision-Making

• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos
• How Spring Sellers Can Enter The Market With Confidence
• Tax Considerations Home Sellers Should Know About
• The One-Room-at-a-Time Spring Prep Strategy
• What's the Difference Between Listing a Home and Marketing It?
• How to Respond to Buyer Feedback Without Panicking
• Transparency Builds Trust: Why Honesty Sells Homes Faster
• Winter Selling Myths That Shouldn't Keep You From Listing
• The Value of Local Market Knowledge When Selling Your Home
• Selling in Snowy Conditions: Safety, Access, and Presentation Tips

• Making Your Home Smell Like Home: Winter Scents That Attract Buyers
• Handling Relocation Buyers During the Holidays