There are many things to consider when buying a house. There are also a few improvements you can make to improve the market value of your home when you are considering selling it. These are the same things you want to consider when buying a home.
Renovating a kitchen, or a bathroom, upgrading your HVAC, finishing your basement, and repairing or replacing your roof are major investments that you can expect to see a return on.
Why the Roof Materials Matters
One of the first things a potential buyer is going to ask about is your roof. An old roof that needs work can be a breaking point for many buyers. Unless your entire home is a fixer-upper, most people will keep walking.
If they know they are going to have to fix or replace the roof, they are going to want to deduct that cost from the purchase price. Most buyers won’t be interested in the extra costs.
A new roof not only increases the curb appeal but also adds much more to the appraisal value of the home. A sagging, leaking roof is going to scare off the majority of your potential buyers.
Identifying Your Needs and Goals for the Roofing System
There are many components to a roofing system. All of them are equally important.
Trusses
The trusses are what form the foundation of your roof and provide support. Trusses are often made of wood and made to fit depending on what type of roof you have.
Fascia
The fascia is what provides your gutters with a place to attach onto. They are horizontal bars directly under your trusses.
Underlayment
Depending on the type of shingles you are getting will determine the type of underlay needed. This provides a layer of insulation to protect your home from moisture from rain, ice, and snow.
Shingles
The shingles come next. The most common types of shingles are asphalt, clay, wood, and slate. The most common is asphalt. Asphalt shingles are available in many styles and colors, and are considered low maintenance.
Flashing
The flashing is used to connect two parts of the roof. The most common is around a chimney and it helps to keep your roof from leaking at the seams. It is easy to repair or replace.
Roof Vents
Vents in your roof are installed to help keep your attic ventilated. Mostly made of metal or plastic, they keep the heat, moisture, and cold air circulating.
Attic
The attic is the small space at the very top of your home just under your roof. Some homeowners use them for extra storage or even turn them into usable rooms.
Gutters
Your gutters are the small troughs that go around the outer edge of your roof to catch all the rainwater, and melting snow and ice. They keep your roof protected, and your lawn and foundation. They are attached to the fascia.
Downspouts
These are the metal or vinyl pipes that come down from the gutters to direct the runoff water away from your home and yard. This protects your foundation and basement.
Things To Consider When Looking For the Right Roof Materials
The climate you live in will dictate the type of materials that will work best for your roof.
Asphalt is the most common material used for roofs. Most are made from fiberglass now as they are durable, lightweight, and available in many colors.
Wood shingles and shakes are also popular. Choose from cedar, redwood, cypress, and pressure-treated pine. They look great, can last a long time if treated, and can be eco-friendly.
Metal roofs have become popular again, mostly because of their longevity. They can be made to look like many other, more expensive materials, and they are easy to install.
Stone and slate roofs are extremely durable but are heavy and not always practical. However, you can get composite or vinyl slate to cut costs and they are less heavy.
Tiles can be concrete, ceramic, or clay. Fiber cement is a popular choice and can be made to mimic other materials. Clay tiles are very strong and durable. They also add a great deal of curb appeal.
How to Keep Your Home Cool with Smart Roof Technology
Smart roofing materials can help cut your energy bills. All-season smart-roof coating can keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer.
You can get reflective coatings, membranes, shingles, or tiles that have interchangeable surfaces that cool homes by reflecting sunlight. It’s also important that your attic is properly insulated to avoid losing heat.
Your roof is what keeps you, your family, and all your belongings safe. With regular inspections and maintenance, you can keep your roof in far better condition.
