Your roof’s condition can compound moisture problems and reduce your home’s energy efficiency. A replacement is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. Think about these factors before choosing replacement material for your roof.
1. The Roof’s Underlying Structure
Typically, roof constructions involve placing materials on a structural member that can be either flat or slopped. The network of beams and trusses must be strong enough to support the roofing materials.
As the roof ages, it may lose its ability to handle loads from winds and snow. Some roofing materials like concrete need a sturdy structure to support their weight. Other alternatives like wood shingles are prone to pest and termite attacks.
In Southern Minnesota, hailstorms can be severe, with wind gusts reaching 60 mph. A routine roofing inspection can determine the materials suitable for the new roof. A roofing services company in Rochester will assess and detect hard-to-spot structural faults to reduce the risk of expensive repairs.
2. The Extent of the Roof’s Pitch
The roof’s slope can limit the choice of materials for a new roof. Asphalt shingles are popular for many Rochester homes, but the tiles require a slope to drain water effectively. The gradient should be at least 3/12 to minimize the risk of water damage on the asphalt shingles.
If you have a low-pitched roof, consider alternative roofing options such as BUR (Built-Up Roof membrane) or rubber. You can install a standing seal metal to protect a flat section of the house.
The rest of the building with a higher pitch could be asphalt shingles, which are more versatile and less expensive. The metal roofing can protect the low-pitched section from ice dams and moisture problems and outlast the asphalt tiles.
3. Your Home’s Style and Curb Appeal
Before choosing an ideal material for roof replacement, you may want to consider the building’s style. You can select an inexpensive option like asphalt to save on installation costs, but slate might be a better choice for older Rochester buildings to preserve their historic look.
Clay and concrete are also popular alternative materials available in a wide variety of styles and colors. However, despite their reputation for durability, the high costs may be impractical for homeowners on a budget.
If you want to match your home’s aesthetics, another affordable option is synthetic materials. Synthetic roofing may include faux slate, rubber, or composite shingles.
Synthetic materials like faux slate mimic the look of traditional roofs, but they are lighter and easier to install. They have fewer maintenance requirements and can reduce the overall cost of a replacement.
Before going for a replacement, take time to choose a suitable material for your roof’s structure. If in doubt, consult us at Heyn Brothers Roofing for exceptional roofing replacement services in Rochester, MN.
