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Your roof is your primary line of defense against the elements. It protects not just you and your family but also your possessions. Not to mention, your roof’s design and quality of installation can make or break the curb appeal of your property. Plus, building a roof from scratch will take a significant chunk out of our budget.
That said, choosing the best roof that ticks all your boxes is imperative. Continue reading to discover tips on how to pick the right roof for your property:
How to Choose a Roof for Your Home
Matching the best roofing with your property requires plenty of consideration. Below are some tips to help you narrow down your search:
1. Know your options
There’s a dizzying array of roof options out there, but it all comes down to the type and material of the roof. The most common types of roofs in Canada are hip, gable, and flat, while the most popular materials include asphalt, wood, metal, tile and slate, and rubber. The safe option is to go with the material that’s common in your area as it could mean that the material is suitable for the area’s distinct climate. You can check skilled roofing contractors in your area to know more about the common roofing material and types. This will help you assess which roofing material and type would be best suited for your property.
2. Match your home’s architecture
One way to know which roofing type you should pick is to match it with your home’s architectural style. A craftsman house, for instance, typically has a low-pitched gable roof, while a flat asphalt roof will go well with a modern build. A Pacific Northwest home would usually have asphalt or composition shingles. If it’s an unconventional design, go for roofing that will compliment the style of your house. Consult with your architect, builder, or roofing company to help you make an informed choice.
3. Consider the surroundings
If you’re going the DIY route or are considering an unconventional roof design, it pays to factor in your area’s topography and climate. For instance, a desert home would benefit from the passive quality of ceramic roof tiles. If your property is near the ocean, you might want to consider clay, slate, rubber, and copper roofs as certain materials don’t perform well against salty breezes and moisture. However, shingles made of pre-treated local wood can fare well against the elements.
4. Check your area’s building code
Before you commit to anything, it’s crucial to know which coverings are allowed according to your local area’s building code. Certain zones have stricter rules for various reasons, including heritage, disaster-proofing, and even aesthetics. If you’re working with a trusted local builder or architect, this shouldn’t be a problem.
5. Pick the right color
Color is not just an aesthetic choice, especially when roofing is concerned, The golden rule is to pick dark colors if you live in a cold or temperate region and brighter colors in hot and sunny climates. This is because darker colors absorb more heat while lighter colors reflect it. Additionally, when picking a color, consider contrast, as well as the size of the property and its architectural style.
6. Opt for an eco-friendly roof
The weather in Canada can be ruthless, especially in winter. If you’re concerned about the environmental footprint of heating your home, consider eco-friendly roofing materials. Rubber, roofs made from reclaimed materials, and green roofs are great options. Some green roofing options may be harder to maintain, but they can significantly reduce your utility bills and even entitle you to tax incentives. You should also check if the material of the roof is recyclable.
7. Prioritize durability & longevity
A roof is a big investment and its upkeep over the years will take a toll on your finances. You’d feel the full brunt of it in the event of a disaster like a bushfire or a hurricane. For this reason, it’s important to choose the roofing material and design that will hold up against all kinds of weather. You should also consider fire and wind resistance. Asphalt shingles, slate, clay tile, wood shake, and stale have proven to be the most durable roofing options.
8. Factor in the cost
The cost of your roof installation should be a key deciding factor, as well. Before breaking ground, you should have at least an estimate of how much the covering and installation will cost. The price range could greatly vary when it comes to roofing, so be sure to shop around to compare rates so you can get the best deal possible. On top of that, you should also consider future upkeep and maintenance costs. Discuss the figures with your roofing provider or builder and consult experts to avoid unexpected expenses.
Whether you’re flipping an old home or building a new one from scratch, the type of roof you choose could make or break your project. Do your research, consult the experts, and heed our advice to make sure you get the right roof for your home.
