The Many Faces of New Roofing

Time for a new roof? With the government currently offering tax breaks for major home renovations, now might be just the time to take the plunge. If you do so, you're probably thinking, "How complicated can the choices really be?" Warning: The options are actually a lot more plentiful than you might imagine. The "Times Colonist" recently addressed this topic in an article titled "Lots of options for new roof."

Sure, functionality is the main selling point when it comes to new roofing, but as a homeowner who takes pride in your home, you want your new roof to look good too. A consultation with a reputable roofing contractor will help you marry function with visual appeal. In the meantime, here are some of roofing options you can mull over. Compare their pros with their cons before deciding which type is right for you.

1. The most popular roofing material, fiberglass is "light yet strong." These types of shingles are also inexpensive and easy to install. And because they're made of glass fibers, they have a high flame-resistant rating, thereby better protecting your home against fire. You will, however, have to be prudent in investigating the type of fiberglass material used in the shingles in select since quality widely fluctuates in this market. A new fiberglass roof should last you 25-35 years.

2. Cedar shingles are an attractive roofing option, but they also have a tendency to be expensive. In addition, they're not particularly fire friendly and must be seal coated every five years. Expect a new cedar roof to last 15 to 30 years.

3. Probably the most expensive option is metal roofing, but the cost may be warranted if you live in a snowy or fire prone region and/or if you anticipate remaining in your home for a long time. Flame resistant and amenable to shedding snow, a new metal roof can last up to 50 years.

4. Roofing tiles made of clay and concrete are heavy and therefore "usually require structural reinforcing to an existing roof." Much more delicate, hail and freeze-thaw patterns will damage clay and concrete. As such, this type of roof is probably best for those who live in temperate climates. On the upside, a clay and concrete roof will last you 30 years or more.

5. If you like the look of cedar but can't afford it, consider a roof that is tiled in plastic, polymer and rubber as these materials can mimic that more expensive one. Even better, they're more durable than cedar, lasting 50 years or more. Eco-conscious homeowners will love the fact that these roofing tiles are made from recycled materials, but they may not enjoy the smell they emit on hot days.

If you're in the market for a new roof, there's probably a lot more to think about than you anticipated. An experienced roofing contractor can help you sort it all out. Plus, they can offer you a full range of services from complete tear-offs, re-roofs, repairs and seamless aluminum gutters to complete attic and ventilation analysis to ensure healthy indoor air quality.