A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Home

Investing in a new roof is an exciting — albeit expensive — venture. Not only does it bring immediate gratification and instant curb appeal to your home, but it also lends itself to long-term financial gains. In fact, real estate agents in the area commonly tout a new roof as one of the biggest bargaining points during home sales negotiations.

You know it’s important that your new roof looks good and holds up well. But selecting the right roofing material for a roof replacement is easier said than done. That’s why establishing a relationship with a reputable roofing company in Omaha, NE, is in your favor. These experts — like the pros at Shamrock Roofing and Construction — know the right combination of materials to create a rooftop system that protects and enhances the look of your home. 

Not ready to call a roofer yet? Here’s a beginner’s guide to get you started.

Consider Climate

The local climate plays a huge role in the type of roofing material you choose. In Omaha, the brutally cold winters and steamy summers mean you’ll want to pick something that can withstand the extremes of Mother Nature. Experts on roofing in Omaha love working with traditional materials like asphalt or composite shingles because they’re durable and affordable. Many of today’s composite shingles also have reflective elements in the granules to help ward off the sun’s rays. This helps extend the life of the roof and also keeps it looking good for many years. 

Shape and Style of Your Home

You’ll also want to consider the overall architectural style of your home, as well as the shape and slope of the roof. The roof plays an important role in the overall look, so it’s important to choose a roofing material that enhances the architecturally interesting aspects of the house. Victorian homes look great with an asphalt roof, while European-inspired homes are irresistible with a clay tile or slate shingle roof. A modest cottage or colonial-style home looks great with wood shake shingles. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the possibilities or don’t have an eye for the right combination, contact a local roofing company in Omaha, NE. They’ll be happy to lend a hand.

Performance Factors

If you plan to invest in a new roof, you want it to last! You’ll definitely want to consider the performance ratings of all the available options before making a final decision. Consider things like wind, impact, and fire resistance, and check the manufacturer’s ratings for each element. Then talk to your local roofer about key points like ease of installation, longevity, and maintenance requirements. 

Budget

A new roof impacts every homeowner’s budget in a big way. There’s no way around it. But if you choose wisely, you’ll end up with a roof that helps boost the value of your property and protects your home and family for many years. A good rule of thumb before calling affordable roofers in Omaha for an estimate is to have a budget in mind and know what you can afford. Consider your long-term goals, including the length of time you plan to be in your home, and choose your roofing material accordingly.

If money is tight, you may want to inquire about financing. Many roofing companies offer payment plans or financing options for homeowners who need a new roof but aren’t prepared to pay the full cost at once. This can be a viable option if you’re in this situation.

Still Need Help? Call Shamrock Roofing and Construction!

Whether you’re ready to dive into a roof replacement or you’re just beginning to explore your options, Shamrock Roofing and Construction should land on your short list of roofers to consider. As one of the more affordable roofers in Omaha (and one of the most reputable), we can help make this overwhelming process more manageable. Contact us today to learn more about our roof replacement services and free roof inspections. We’ll help you choose the roofing material that’s right for you!