Residential roofers work on homes, repairing and installing new roofs. They help homeowners select shingles, tiles, and other materials to complement the exterior of their property. Read more.

Before hiring a roofing company, check out their past jobs online. Look for high-quality pictures and a company that strives for longevity in the business.

Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing material can boost your home’s value and communicate its style and character. From basic 3-tab asphalt shingles to architectural shingle styles, there are many options available.

Rolled roofing is popular for low-sloped roofs and can be hammered easily into place. It is affordable and a good choice for utilitarian buildings like sheds and workshops.

Clay tiles are a natural option for hot climates, and they can stand up to extreme temperatures and high winds. However, they’re heavy and require special framing.

Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States. They’re affordable, durable, and come in a wide variety of colors.

They also reflect the sun’s heat, keeping homes cooler and lowering energy costs. But they do emit toxic chemicals when hot asphalt is used in the construction process.

GAF is one of the top-tier shingle manufacturers in America. They offer 3-tab, architectural, and luxury asphalt shingles. They even have a steel shingle line called MetalWorks that has the look of slate, tile, and wood.

Shakes

Cedar shake roofs are beautiful, natural, and environmentally friendly. They add character and charm to your home and are excellent insulators. They are also very durable and should last 30 to 50 years.

While shingles have a smooth uniform appearance, shakes are traditionally hand-split and can vary in texture from one end to the other. They are thicker than shingles and require a special underlayment. It is important to note that neither shingle nor shake roofs should have an ice barrier installed over solid sheathing.

Tiles

Tile roofs often feature in Southwest- and Mediterranean-style homes. They’re a popular choice for homeowners in hotter climates, as they resist high winds and salty air. They also offer exceptional resistance to hail, rot, and mold. Clay, concrete, and slate tiles are available in a variety of colors and styles, including some that mimic traditional wood shakes and shingles. They are typically more expensive than shingle roofs but last up to 50 years.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs aren’t as common for homes, but they can offer a more affordable option and a lower maintenance cost than sloped roofing. However, they can be less reliable in cold climates because water may pool and ice can build up.

They’re also not as stylish and don’t blend in with a neighborhood as slanted roofs do. However, some homeowners and home builders prefer them for their easier accessibility.

Metal Roofs

Pros:

Metal roofs are long-lasting and energy-efficient. They also boost home resale value and can protect against hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy snow, and wildfires. They come in a variety of colors and designs, including shingles and standing seam styles.

Today’s metal roofing is a far cry from the corrugated tin barns of the past, with aluminum and steel offering a variety of color options. There are even “stone-coated” metal roofs that offer a more textured look.

Siding

Siding is a material that covers the outside of your house. It can protect it from the elements and improve its appearance. There are several types of siding, including vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. Each type of siding has its own pros and cons. Fiber cement, for example, is long-lasting, termite-proof, and fire-resistant. It can be expensive to install, though. It also tends to absorb moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew.

Gutters

Gutters are a necessity for most homes. They catch rainwater that cascades down the roof and funnels it into a single flow, reducing erosion along your foundation and other structures. They also direct water to downspouts, which can be directed into drainage systems or into tanks for garden use during dry weather.

Gutter systems are available in many shapes, sizes, and materials. They can also be custom-designed to meet your specific needs.

Windows

Windows are not only a design feature, but they also provide ventilation and improve thermal comfort. You can choose from a wide range of window options to match the look and style of your home. Bay windows are a great choice for modern homes, as they provide an airy, spacious appearance. They also come with additional benefits, including improved sound insulation and energy efficiency. If you’re thinking of buying new windows, contact Legacy Roofing for a free quote. Check this important info.