The homeowner’s guide to buying a new roof

Buying a new roof for your property is going to be a potentially big decision, as you need to be aware of a few different technical things about roofs in order to make the best decision for your property. Once you know what you’re choosing between, (in terms of materials and styles) it’s pretty smooth sailing. I want to discuss some of the different types of roofing materials there are out there in the hopes that it makes it easier for you to take the plunge and buy your new roof. Remember, if you ever need help with making a roofing decision, you can call up a roofing specialist for a quote – and they are usually happy to help you with the decision making process. Let’s take a look at some of the different products there are out there to help you to get started with making the decision for your home’s crowning glory.

Types of materials

There are a number of different materials, both natural and man-made, so let’s take a look at a few of them here:

• Asphalt
• Metal
• Wood
• Slate
• Plastic polymers

It’s all well and good to know the types of materials, but how do you choose which one is right for your home? You need to know:

• The lifespan of the roof
• Strength of the roof for natural disasters (fires, hurricanes etc)
• Fit for existing roof framing – i.e. is it too heavy for the current frame?
• Is there enough slope?
• Will the material complement your home?
• Are the materials eco-friendly and recyclable?
• Does the roofing material complement the local building codes?
• How much it will cost?

Some kinds of roofing will be better suited to some houses than others, and factors like the slope and strength of the frame may limit your choice.

Let’s take a look at some of the options:

Asphalt composition shingles

Made of either organic paper fibre mat or fiberglass, these are available in a couple of different styles of thickness. These are eco-friendly and can be recycled as well. Moderately heavy, they can be used on low right through to steep sloped roofs. They are inexpensive to moderately expensive, depending on your options.

Metal

The metal roof can be copper, steel, aluminium or zinc alloy. Steel roofs come with either zinc coating or a painted finish, while copper are installed unfinished and acquire a protective green patina with age. The metal roof can be recycled and is moderate to expensive (copper).

Wood

The wooden roof is not very fire resistant unless treated. Commonly made of cedar, you can also get other rot-resistant woods, like redwood. A natural looking roof and very eco-friendly, the wood roof can be installed on moderate to steep sloped roofs and is moderately expensive.

Slate

One of the oldest roofing materials, this is a brittle and expensive option but highly advantageous as it is very durable and resists wind and fire. Made from natural materials and works only on steeply sloped roofs, it requires specially trained workers to install it.

Plastic Polymer

A cheaper alternative to slate, the plastic polymer option is molded from high-tech plastic. It is made to resemble slate or wood and is light to moderate in weight. It can be used on moderate to steeply sloped roofs and is good with fire and wind resistance.

For any kind of roof installation or roof restoration in Melbourne, you should jump online and check out the local roofing specialist for some quotes and advice. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to getting a new roof and new aesthetic for your home.  Eada Hudes