Building a custom home is often a once in a lifetime opportunity and one you want to get right the first time! A large decision people face during the building process is deciding on the roofing materials they want to use. While a roof’s main purpose it to keep the house dry, it can also add significant curb appeal and is something worth putting thought into. Currently, there are more roofing options available than ever before, making it a difficult decision. From regular asphalt shingles, to ceramic and clay tiles, to slate tiles, each option has pros and cons.
Three roofing options for custom home
Asphalt Shingles:
You see these everywhere you go, as most homeowners and builders opt to use them. While they are not the most beautiful roofing option, they are certainly the most cost efficient for those expecting to be in their home for only 10-15 years or less. After 10-15 years, they will most likely need to be replaced. Surprisingly, you can customize asphalt shingles to an extent, as they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. So before going with the regular old gray/black ones, ask to see your roofing options. It’s your home; you deserve to know the possibilities that exist before committing to the builder grade norm.
Ceramic Tile or Clay Tile Shingles:
Ceramic and clay tile shingles are a beautiful alternative to asphalt shingles. While they are more expense, they do outlast regular shingles by 60-80 years. In fact, tile roofs can last for centuries if installed right and properly maintained! So if you plan on being in your home for more than 15 years, selecting a tile roof may actually save you money in the long run, as you will most likely NEVER have to replace it, unlike an asphalt shingle roof. Clay and ceramic tile roofs are also fire resistant and hail resistant. Two more reasons why they are a great alternative to the average asphalt shingled roof!
Slate Roofs:
Slate roofs are exquisite, and not seen everyday. Investing in a slate roof will surely set your home apart from the rest! Slate roofs were originally brought to the Americas by Europeans and were often used on historic or governmental builders. Over time the use of slate has expanded and today it is being used on existing homes needing a new roof and on custom homes being built around the world. Like clay and ceramic tiled roofs, slate roofs will last for centuries if cared for properly and installed with care. They are also fire resistant and shed ice and snow, making them one of the greatest roofing options for any environment. So while the initial investment is higher on slate roofs, you won’t regret it when it outlasts your neighbor’s roofs by 100 years and makes your home the most beautiful one on the block!
So remember when building your custom home to ask about these roofing alternatives, as they might just be more affordable than you think and are beautiful alternatives to the normal black shingles roof.