Selecting the Best Roofing for your Climate

Guest Blogger #656, Entry #1566, September 6, 2012

Roofing is no simple matter. This is the only line of defense between you and the elements, and a well constructed and maintained roof can mean the difference between a safe comfortable house, and a domicile that feels like a shack in the woods. Of course there is no single solution to the roofing problem, no perfect roof for everyone. The type of roof you choose will depend on several factors such as your home’s architecture, materials that fall within your price range, and perhaps most importantly–your local climate. The environment and weather in your area should be given serious consideration before you set out on your roofing plan.

Do you know how to choose the right roofing material?

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The benefits of choosing the right roofing

The right roofing choice can make a hot house cooler, a cold house warmer, and can keep your home safe from the elements. You don’t want to live in an oven or an ice box, so research the roofing options available to you. Slate tiling is a traditional and beautiful roofing technique that has been used for centuries, and it can do a very good job of keeping excessive heat out of the house. Unfortunately, this option has become very expensive in recent years. Some newer options are elastomeric sealants which set a kind of reflective coating over your roof that repels ultraviolet rays. Clay roofing has been used for a very long time in hot climates as well. These are options to consider for those living in warm, sunny climates.

Choose roofing per your climate

Shingles are a valid option, used on houses all over the United States and beyond. They do a good job of keeping water from entering the roof, and are less prone to rot than similar wood options, which is ideal for rainy regions such as the Pacific Northwest. However, one of the downsides of shingle roofing is that it can be easily damaged by strong winds, so areas prone to tropical storms or hurricanes would be well advised to look elsewhere. This is also one of the dangers of metal roofing–it is more easily dented and damaged by debris.

Choose roofing based on your climate

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Those residing in colder climates will naturally want a roof that is well insulated to keep warmth inside during the frigid winter months. Shingle roofs are a common choice, though they can be difficult to install and often require the use of a roofing cement or nail gun. The shingles will, however, help to keep warmth in and moisture out which is good for colder climates where snow and ice can pile up. Insulation underneath the shingled surface will make this a very reliable and warm roof.

The best course to take in deciding on your ideal roof material may be to call a local roofing company. They will have the most up to date information on all of the latest roofing trends, and will be able to advise you toward the best solutions for your home. This will likely be a bit too complicated for a solo project anyway, so enlisting the help of professionals will make sure you get the best results.

For more ideas to help you choose house materials on Stagetecture, click here.