by Kevin Bradley

Created on: April 29, 2010   Last Updated: August 17, 2011

A good roof needs good materials to make it safe, efficient and able to withstand the elements. There are numerous things to consider when choosing roofing material for your home. If you choose the cheapest option it can come back to haunt you at a later date with more frequent repairs needed to prevent a leaky roof. However, the most expensive option can also bring its own problems and the repair costs will be more significant.

The following guide will help you select the most appropriate roofing material to ensure your roof is efficient and long lasting.

You need to check local building regulations before choosing roofing material. This will determine which materials you can rule out and therefore narrow down the choices available to use. It also means you become familiar with roof safety and are able to make better decisions.

After checking the building regulations you need to assess the local weather conditions. Choosing the right roofing material for your annual weather pattern will help reduce repair costs in the long term. This could mean buying a more expensive material initially, but will mean the roof will last longer and therefore cost less in the long term.

You also need to consider the type of roof and whether it is a sloped or flat roof. Some materials are better suited to sloping roofs while other materials are ideal for flat roofs. The regulations will help provide this information and the weather conditions will help dictate the most suitable material.

When you know the local building regulations and are aware of the annual weather pattern you can set about choosing the most appropriate roofing material. The most common materials include Asphalt Shingles, Wood Shakes, Clay Tiles, Slate and other synthetic materials.

Asphalt shingles are generally the most economical material to use on modern roofs. They are fire resistant and available in different compositions and colors. They are lightweight and easy to work with. This makes them ideal for most residential houses.

Wood shakes or shingles have great aesthetic appeal but can be a fire hazard. They are generally more expensive than asphalt shingles and can become warped through weathering.

Clay tiles are generally the most expensive type of material used on residential roofs. They are extremely durable, fire resistant and have a long lifespan.

Slate roofs are fire resistant, weatherproof and quite heavy. They are long lasting and with proper maintenance will easily last a lifetime. However, repair costs can be expensive.

Overall, if you select the right type of material for your area you will reduce the chances of needing repairs or upgrades. You will also save money in the long run if you ensure the roof material provides adequate insulation and is within the local building regulations.

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