What is the Best Type of Roofing for My Home?

Choosing the right roof matters. From the protection of your home, and longevity of the materials, to your style and curb appeal, picking the right roofing material can make all the difference. Brothers Services Company offers asphalt, cedar, metal and slate shingles to cover a wide range of needs and styles. We’ll discuss the factors to consider when making a choice on your roof with comparisons, and recommendations.

Your roof does more than keep rain out. It offers encompassing weather protection, helps with maintaining ideal indoor temperature, lends itself to the overall energy efficiency of your residence, and is an integral factor in your home’s value. Choosing the right roof for your needs can reduce long-term expenses, the performance and lifespan of your home, as well as the satisfaction and peace of mind you feel while in your space. Professional installation is another important factor. When you trust professional roofing contractors from Brothers Services, we offer a warranty on the materials and workmanship we provide. Without a knowledgeable contractor installing your roof, you may have to pay significantly more to fix any mistakes.

There are a number of factors to consider when you’re shopping for a new roof. The Brothers team can help you choose the right one for your home, and keep all of the following in mind.

Budget is a key factor when it comes to choosing a roofing material. The upfront cost should be weighed against the long-term value. If you have the flexibility of finances to spring for a metal roof, over classic asphalt shingles, you could be saving thousands of dollars over time with less maintenance, and a longer life before a replacement is required. If your upfront funds are more limited, the new asphalt shingles have come a long way from 20 years ago, and still offer great protection against the elements for your home. Brothers Services Company offers financing to make your decision easier. Making the right choice for your home and finances is the most important decision you can make.

Climate and weather are an important factor to consider in choosing a roofing material. Climates have a significant impact on building codes, and is why many homes in areas that get snow don’t have flat roofs. In Maryland, snow, wind, hail, and heat need to be accounted for. Storm damage can cut the life of your roof short if it is drastic enough. While asphalt shingles are generally durable, they are more likely to be damaged in a severe storm, than metal shingles. Slate roofing holds up to sun and water exposure better than cedar shingles, but has a different charm. Whatever material you choose, Brothers Services can provide maintenance recommendations or services to ensure you get the most out of your roof.

Understanding how long a material is rated to protect your home is important to evaluate if the cost is justified. Asphalt shingles are less expensive than metal, however they typically only last 30-40 years. The roof lifespan is determined by the material’s impact resistance and structural demands. Carefully review the durability and average lifespan of the materials you’re considering for your roof.

Your home is a reflection of your style, and Brothers Services has a variety of materials and colors to choose from. Aesthetics is where the architectural design of your home, and your personal preferences meet. Our team can help you make the best choice to meet both and give you the look you want.

Roofing materials require different types and levels of maintenance. Cedar roofing requires staining and sealing, while asphalt shingles will usually require replacement of deteriorated shingles in a shorter period of time. The Brothers Services team can help to determine if it is best to replace or repair your roof. 

Energy efficiency of a roof with proper insulation can have a large impact on your utility bills. The reflectivity of your roofing material, coupled with updated insulation with a high r value can pay for itself over time. 

Brothers Services is well versed in local building codes and HOA rules. Some HOAs or codes will limit your choice on materials or colors, so keeping that in mind can save you the headache of a second replacement to adhere to the rules in place.

Next we’ll walk through the available roofing materials from Brothers Services. You’ll understand the pros and cons of each to make an informed decision for your home.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for price conscious homeowners. It’s easy to install, and has a wide variety of color choices. Asphalt shingles are best for homeowners who are looking for a cost-effective roof replacement. 

Metal roofs are well known for their durability. Typically made of steel or aluminum, metal shingles are a top choice for homeowners looking for a material with a long lifespan and energy performance. That said, there are some pros and cons of metal roofs.

Cedar shingles, also known as cedar shakes, are an excellent choice if you’re looking for natural wood roofing with rustic beauty. This statement material is highly sought after by home buyers who value style and natural materials. 

Slate shingles are a premium and elegant roofing choice with historic durability.  They are best for a long-term investment and distinguished homes. Their longevity is unmatched.

Laying out your choices in a table can make it easier to make an informed decision about your next roofing material. Compare the materials you’re considering in the chart below.

Now that you have an understanding of your options, it’s time to talk to one of our team members to help you identify options that will work for your home. An experienced roofing contractor will help by confirming you’ve considered all factors and your material of choice will be a great fit for your home and budget.

The first step is to talk about your budget. Is insurance footing the bill, or will you be financing the roof replacement yourself? We can give you a clear picture of what the project will cost based on your home. 

Next we’ll discuss the climate and weather related dangers to weigh the pros and cons of different materials for your home.

The third consideration we’ll discuss is the time and funds required for maintenance and longevity. Do you have the funds to go with a more expensive material that requires less maintenance? Do you have the time to commit to required maintenance, or the funds to pay someone else to do it?

The fourth and final consideration we’ll help you with is your style. Are you replacing the roof, but not the siding? This may influence color choices. 

Have you heard the old saying “More expensive always means better”? It’s not necessarily true for roofing. While longevity is an important factor, your style, your climate, your energy efficiency needs, and the required long term maintenance should all be considered. You may find that a metal or asphalt roof is a better fit than a slate roof for your home!

The truth is that all roofing materials require some maintenance. What that looks like and how much time must be dedicated varies. 

Roofing warranties also vary by material manufacturer and by contractor. Make sure you understand the available warranties for your roof replacement. 

Climate fit is also important to understand. The truth is that a cedar roof is likely better suited for a dryer climate than a very snowy, rainy climate. You need to consider the way materials can deteriorate over time in your area, and consider if you’re willing to put in more maintenance for a material that may not be best suited for your climate.

There is no universal “best roof”, but there is the best roof for your home and needs. Brothers Services Company offers a free tailored roofing consultation and quote to anyone. Call us today to request a consultation on your roof replacement.

The average new roof lasts 20-30 years before needing a roof repair or replacement. This varies largely due to climate, material, and maintenance.

You can forget the “tin roof” myth, thanks to modern metal roofing installed with solid sheathing. This makes metal roofing surprisingly quiet, usually generating 50–70 dB during a heavy rainstorm (roughly the volume of a normal conversation). A snowstorm is nearly silent, registering a negligible 20–30 dB, while large hail events are the loudest at 70–90 dB inside most homes. These sound levels are on par with asphalt shingles because attic insulation and solid decking serve as sound dampeners.

Classic slate roofing is very heavy, typically weighing in at 800-1,500lbs every 100 feet or so. This means that it is not an ideal material for every home, and if you choose this material, you may need to bolster your structure to handle the increased weight. Pitch is also another factor to consider. An alternative option is synthetic slate, which can save you on weight and cost. Check with the Brothers Services team to verify if this is an option for your home.

Windy climates are something to be aware of when selecting a roofing material. Cedar and metal roofing has the highest wind resistance and is typically rated up to 160+ mph. Asphalt shingles rely on heat activated sealing, and if that seal fails, the shingle can be more easily ripped off or damaged than other materials.