So, you know how houses are expensive?

Well, one way that a real estate agent might talk the price down with the seller is to ask for a discount if there are any elements that need fixing up. If the seller wants $100,000, but the roof is bad, you can say you’ll take care of the roof yourself, but only if the price drops to $92,000.

It’s not a bad way to pick up some St. Albert real estate. Of course, if that does work, then you’re still going to need a new roof.

We get it: everyone needs to save a buck. But if you cheap out on a roof, you may just end up spending more to have it repaired later. Trust us, it’s worth it to get a roof done the right way the first time.

Now, there are plenty of options for roofing; like anything, there’s the common routes and the more expensive routes. What to do, what to do?

Let’s explain some of your best options for roofing materials.

Asphalt Shingles

The type of house you have, and the climate you live in, should determine what type of roof you need, but by and large, if we’re just talking about the standard American home in a four-seasons climate, then you can’t argue with asphalt shingles.

Shingles are relatively easy to manufacture, and the savings are passed on to you, the customer. The base of a shingle is fiberglass, which is then coated in waterproof asphalt. Also, you know how a shingle is extremely rough to the touch? That’s because shingles are covered in little granulated pieces that protect the roof from the sun’s UV light.

With all kinds of colors to choose from, asphalt shingles are an instant win here.

Wooden Shingles

Ah, the sweet smell and look of handsome wood. Yes, wood can be used for roofs. People like it because it lends a house a more rustic feel, and some say it just looks better than asphalt shingles, even though both will protect your home from the elements.

Wood shingles are machine-cut, meaning your roof will have a clean, neat, uniform look when it’s all done. Wood roofs tend to last about 5 to 10 years longer than asphalt shingles, and they will insulate your home a little better than asphalt will. On top of that, cedar and redwood shingles have oils that will stop insects and moisture from infiltrating your roof.

Now, keep in mind that you’ll have to maintain untreated wood shingles so algae and moss don’t grow up there. Also, if you live in a wildfire-susceptible area, wood roofs might not even be allowed. On top of all that, wooden shingles are more expensive to buy and have installed.

So, you do get those advantages, but at an increased price. Only you know what is best for you.

Metal Roofs

Lastly, we have metal roofs. Make no mistake, these things are durable. They will last you a long time while fully protecting you from everything you can think of, from rainstorms to windstorms to snow and hail.

Metal roofs are typically made of aluminum, copper, or zinc and come in large sheets. The interesting thing about metal roofs is that they are manufactured in many styles so that you have your choice of look. You can even get a metal roof that mirrors the look of shingles or tiles.

That all sounds great, but keep in mind that metal roofs are much more expensive than more traditional options such as asphalt. Copper roofs in particular are known for being exorbitantly expensive. However, you’ll get undeniable protection from the elements and certainly a good return on your investment.

It’s all just a question of where you want to put your money when it comes to your roofing. Any of the above options are solid and would serve you well. What you will do will probably just come down to budget.

Published: 2021-05-22 00:33:31