Roofs and roofing materials

Never underestimate how much a roof can impact the sale of your home.  If it is not up to par, some buyers will walk away or turn the roof into a major sticking point of negotiations.  On the other hand, a beautiful roof can give potential buyers all the reason they need to make an acceptable offer.

Whether it is a gambrel, a gable, or a mansard; the material used for roofing can make a huge impact on the look and style of a house.  Let’s take a look of the pros and cons of each.

• Slate roofs:  This is one of the best, most beautiful and architecturally significant roofing materials.  It is a blue-gray stone that last anywhere from 70-100 years or more.  Artificial slate is also available, but it typically does not have the longevity as real slate.  However, it still lasts for a few decades or more.  Slate is heavy, so a building must be constructed to support the weight.
• Metal roofs:  Are gaining popularity among those leaning to the “green” construction of a home.  Metal roofs are often chosen in green design because they last a long time, 20 plus years, and can be constructed with recycled materials.  Also metal reflects heat, which can cut down on energy costs in hot climates.  However, this roofing material is expensive and rain or hail can be quite noisy.
• Wood shakes or shingles:  These give the exterior construction a more natural look.  Generally made with cedar and can last up to 30 or 40 years depending on the climate.  Typically a shake is thicker and more rustic looking than a shingle.  These can be used as a siding material as well as for the roof.   They have a great natural look that weathers well over time.
• Clay tile roofs:  The tiles are made with clay or concrete, are fire resistant and typically have a long lifetime.  The tile is heavy, so the house must be able to support a tile roof.  It is possible to find salvaged tiles, which would be a very environmentally friendly way to re-roof.
• Asphalt shingle roofs: This is the most typical and widely used roofing material.  It is functional and affordable.  Shingles come in a variety of colors and shades to choose from.  They do have a shorter life time than the above mentioned options and don’t have the architectural substance of other roofing materials; however they are perfectly functional and widely used.
• Vegetated roofs: Also know as green roofs.  Vegetated roofs are a staple in green design.  Grasses and plants, such as wild strawberries, grow on the roof over a water-tight layer.  The soil and plants help to keep the roof cool, and blend in with its surroundings.  Not a roof for everyone.

This is also very good information for a home buyer or someone building his or her own home.  Not all roof types do well in all climates, be sure to always consult a expert or professional in this field.