A Good Looking New Roof Might Not Be Your Best Choice

If it’s time for a new roof on your home, you’re probably in for a surprise. If you’re looking for a new roof now, it means you likely haven’t done so since the last century. And you’ll find many more options than when you last reroofed your home. And many of those choices can make a big difference to the look of your home.

But the wider variety of choices can be both a good thing and a bad thing. The good news is that you aren’t necessarily limited to the tried a true asphalt shingle for the look of your home. The bad news is that you might be tempted to choose a roofing material that looks great, but isn’t the right choice for your home or your plans for it.

A New Look for Your Roof

Before you choose a new look or different roofing material, you should be aware of some of their advantages and disadvantages.

Asphalt Shingles

Still the most popular roofing material in Canada, you’ll probably notice that asphalt shingles are available in a much wider variety of styles and colours, many of which imitate far more expensive roofing options, than when you last checked. They all offer the same good value and relative long life that you’ve come to expect from asphalt shingles.

Clay Tile

An increasingly popular choice in and around Toronto and the GTA, clay tiles are durable but will require some research on your part, and certain expertise from your roofer, if you are to make the right decision. Make sure your tiles won’t be affected by frost and that your roofer uses flashing that will last as long as the clay tile.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Another roofing material that enjoys growing popularity due its unique character, high insulating properties and low environmental impact. But be ready for somewhat higher maintenance and a shorter lifespan versus most other roofing materials.

Slate Tile

If you’re looking for one of the most distinctive looks for your roof, and perhaps the longest lasting roofing material, slate tile is it. But it’s also one of the most expensive. While a slate roof can last over 100 years, if you’re planning to sell your house in the foreseeable future, the long lifespan is of no benefit to you and you’ll have to consider whether or not you’ll get a return on your investment.

If you’re looking for help to make your roofing decision talk to friends and family about their experiences and opinions, and then find a trusted roofing company to give you straight answers.