The roof is one of the most important parts of a home, and choosing the best roofing material can make or break what people see when they walk up. With a new roof, you can give your home that unique look and feel no matter what style or color scheme it is currently sporting. “It’s really an opportunity to upgrade your home,” says Tom Bollnow from NRCA!

If you’re in the market for a new roof, how do you know which material is going to be best? It can be tricky. There are many different types of roofing material available and each has its own set of advantages. When it comes down to choosing the right material for your home or business, ask yourself these questions.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing The Best Roofing Material

Q.1: How long should roofing material last? 

The expected life of any roofing material is partially dependent upon the harsh weather in Illinois. Usually, roofs will not last long if they are exposed to higher freeze-thaw cycles than what a resident would experience with normal winter conditions like those found near Peoria.

Q.2: What impact does climate have on roof installation costs? 

Most roofing contractors in Peoria, IL charge more for roof installations that require specialized tools and equipment. So, roofing in extremely cold climates of Illinois will generally cost more than roofing in warm, mild months of the year.

Q.3: What impact does roof slope have on roof installation cost?

The steeper the roof pitch or roof angle, the more difficult it is to mount roof shingles. This tends to drive costs up so steep sloping roofs cost more than flat roofs. Roofing on pitches between 3:12 and 12:12 is generally less expensive than pitches greater than 12:12.

Q.4: What impact does roof sheathing (underlayment) have on roof installation cost? 

Roof sheathing is an important element in the roof assembly as it protects the rafters from external elements. Underlayment adds this protection, but also provides a barrier between roofing materials and the roof sheathing. As roof installation cost is driven by labor, roof sheathing is normally installed in roof systems that include metal roofing or shingles.

Q.5: What impact does roof assembly have on roof installation cost? 

Roof assemblies are made up of roof sheathing (underlayment), rafters or trusses, roof decking (plywood or OSB), ventilation, and roofing materials. Different roof systems require different assembly techniques, which in turn affects the cost to install a roof.

The answers to those questions will assist you in deciding which option is best for your house. Roofing materials come in a variety of styles and colors. ROOF TIGER’s staff can assist you in selecting the best roofing material for your needs.