There are many different options available when it comes to installing a new roof. The decision will largely be determined by the pitch of the roof, what condition it is in, and what your budget is. Other considerations include how long you want the roof to last, and the new roof’s potential to increase the value of the house.

The most common material used for roofs nowadays is asphalt shingles. Around 90% of houses today have asphalt shingle roofs.  Before you decide on a roofing material, make sure the frame of the roof can support the weight of the material to avoid any nasty surprises later on. You don’t want to find that you have to reinforce the framework to install your new roof.

Because asphalt shingles weigh between 240 and 400 pounds per hundred square feet, it is highly recommended that you remove the old roof before installing them. Metal roofing is a far lighter option. Different metal types (aluminium, steel etc) range from 40 to 100 pounds per square foot, with aluminium being the lightest.

Durability Almost Always Costs More

The initial cost of a roofing material should not be the deciding factor in whether to purchase it. When you pay more for a material, you will often get a roof that will last for far longer than cheaper options. Asphalt shingles last around 20 years and cost between $50 and $150 per 100 square feet. A slate roof, on the other hand, will last for hundred years or more, while costing up to $1000 per 100 square feet.

So you should consider how long you are going to stay in the house and keep it in the family and how much you have to spend when deciding on a roofing material. Slate tile is also much heavier than asphalt and can weigh up to 800 pounds per square, depending on how thick it is. Having to strength the supporting frame can increase the cost of slate even more.

You need to research all the available options when installing a new roof, and learn all you can about your house. You should also think about what kind of weather you get when thinking about materials. However, the return on your initial investment should be the most important factor in your decision.