Tips for Picking Shingle Roofing Materials

When you are having a new roof installed, you will have many decisions to make. Which contractor will you use? When will you schedule the job? Which shingle roofing materials are the best for the job? Choosing the right materials is often the first step in the process.

When choosing a brand for your materials, learn a little bit about the company first. Find out how long they have been in the business. This is important, because you want to choose an established company so that they will be around to honor any warranties on their products. You also want to work with an established company so that you can feel more confident that they have created quality, time-tested shingle roofing material.

Next, find out about the warranty offered on the materials. Many companies stand behind their workmanship for many years. Many shingles will have 15 to 30 years of warranty behind them. This is important, because it ensures you can get the shingles replaced should they be faulty. However, remember that the warranty is often quite limited, so make sure you read and understand it. Always read the fine print to ensure that you know what is covered and what is not. If the warranty is longer than the others on the market, make sure there is not some hidden catch.

One thing many homeowners do not know to look for is the average length of time between changes to the manufacturer's product line. The shingle roofing materials you choose today are going to need to be replaced or repaired long before you need a brand new roof, and if the company has changed their line and colors, you are going to be hurting. Choose a company that does not make changes frequently, or adds to their line without removing the colors and styles they already offer.

Once you have found a manufacturer, you must choose the materials for your roof. This is not as easy as you might think. Even if you are considering only shingle roofing materials, you will have many choices at your disposal. This is one way that your contractor can help, because they will know the benefits of each different type. Have a conversation with your contractor before making your decision.

Often, this decision must be made based on budget and needs. If you need a highly durable roof, you can expect to pay more upfront. However, you may find this worthwhile if it means you do not have to replace the roof as soon. If you plan to stay in your home for a long time, the higher initial upfront cost may be outweighed by the benefit of longevity.

Shingle roofing requires many decisions. Choosing your materials is just one of these. Take the time to research each decision carefully to ensure you are making the right one. After all, you are talking about your roof, which is a huge investment for your home. It is vital that you make wise, informed decisions when making this investment.