The right roof is not only there to keep the rain off—it enhances the aesthetics of your home, increases curb appeal, and is an essential part of your home’s energy efficiency and weatherproofing. To help guide you to the right type of roofing, Mesler Roofing & Exteriors has put together the facts you need to make the right decision. If you are in the Northeast Kansas area and need your roof installed, repaired, or replaced, contact Mesler Roofing & Exteriors today!
Asphalt Composition Roofs
Asphalt shingles are fiberglass sandwiched between asphalt and ceramic granules for strength, durability, and waterproofing. The ceramic granules that give shingles their color also help deflect UV light, which has damaging effects on you and your home.
Because they are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install, asphalt shingles are the number one choice in roofing in North America. This type of roof is a solid choice for home and business owners alike, from their cost-effective quality to design variety to energy efficiency.
Pros
Asphalt comes in a variety of colors, is widely available, and is one of the least expensive materials.
Cons
Quality can vary widely and asphalt doesn’t provide as much insulation as other roofing materials.
Lifespan
If properly maintained, shingles will last 20 to 25 years.
For a seamless installation process, hire a professional to install your asphalt roof.
Slate & Tile Roofs
Looking to capture a more rustic look? Slate and tile shingles are the roofing solution for you! Quality slate (link to #Types of Roofing We Install on roofing page) and tile materials have a big impact and help your home stand out. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, slate roofing is fireproof, insect-proof, and is great for resale value—but it comes at a higher cost.
Pros
Slate and tile are very durable, fire-resistant, and sustainable—most can even be recycled!
Cons
Slate and tile can be expensive. It is also heavier than other options, requiring extra framing and professional installation. Plus, quality can vary with imported slate.
Lifespan
Slate and tile roofs can last more than 50 years—sometimes 100 years or more.
Flat Roofs
Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs take up less room and use far fewer materials, making installation and repair costs significantly less than other roofing options. When installed properly, they can also be very energy efficient. In colder climates, however, flat roofs, ice damming, and snow accumulation can cause many water pooling issues.
Pros
Repairs are relatively simple and inexpensive and most flat roof options are energy efficient.
Cons
If improperly installed or maintained, leaks can become a problem.
Lifespan
If maintained, flat roofs last 20-25 years.
How To Choose What’s Right For You
Budget
The average homeowner spends $8,667 to install a new roof, and costs to reroof a home or business range from $5,657 to $12,064, according to estimates from HomeAdvisor. Typically, you should go with a roof that is the best quality option that is within your budget. Don’t forget to take style and your environment into consideration, too!
Style
Select an option that will either blend into the existing style of your home or enhance it. Going with an option that conflicts with the design of your just because it is cheapest may save you money now, but will cost you in the long run, if and when you decide to sell.
Climate
One factor that can get overlooked when selecting the right roof for you is what type does best in your environment. The current slope and framing play into the way a roof performs in different environments, but so does the type of roof. Slate stands up to both hot and cold, and certain types of asphalt can either trap or repel heat from the sun.
Get In Touch with Mesler Roofing & Exteriors!
Still unsure? Looking for the right professional to do the work? For a trustworthy and experienced roofing contractor, trust the pros at Mesler Roofing & Exteriors. We are a BBB accredited business with an A+ rating and fully staffed with skilled, trained, and insured professionals.
For over 40 years, our communities in Lawrence, Kansas City, and beyond have trusted Mesler Roofing & Exteriors. When it’s time to replace your roof, contact us. We’re looking forward to working with you!