When it's time for a roof replacement, it's worth it investing the time and effort to find the best roofing material for your home. According to experts at Green Home Guide, choosing the right material might seem like a simple enough choice, but it can reduce your home's energy needs by as much as 30%. So, it's best to do your homework and due diligence to get the most out of your new roof.

To begin with, most roofing materials are great options as long as you hire a reputable and experienced roof contractor to ensure proper installation. That being said, your roof is there to protect your home and its contents, and the best way to optimize that protection is by finding the right type of roof for your particular environment and needs. Here's what you need to know about choosing the right roofing material for your home.

Consider Your Budget First

When you make the decision to invest in a new roof, you need to come up with a reasonable budget that works for you. Generally, the most affordable roofing material is asphalt shingles. But if your budget has room for expansion, you might want to consider other roofing materials like metal and slate, which offer more perks like increased durability and longevity.

When deciding your budget, keep in mind that it should also include the cost of installation and the hiring of a roof contractor. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest roofing material and roof contractor, it's essential to invest in a quality roof. Otherwise, a cheap roofing system that's improperly installed might end up being more costly over time.

Consider the Style You Want

Have you considered the look you want your roof to have? Besides protecting your home, your roof is also a big part of your home's curb appeal. It's important that you invest in a roof that blends well with your home's architectural style and the general neighborhood look.

For instance, begin by checking out other homes in your area with similar styles to see what type of roofing material they have used. If the common trend involves three-tab or dimensional asphalt shingles, then consider choosing an asphalt shingle roof. The great news is you can invest in a luxury asphalt roof if you want a roof that stands out more. As long as your home's roof isn't the odd one out in your neighborhood, it shouldn't negatively affect the resale value of your home.

Consider the Lifespan of the Roofing Material

The longevity of your roofing material is something you should be interested in if you want to maximize your investment. After all, no homeowner wants to keep shelling out money for a replacement roof. Fortunately, most roof types on the market offer more bang for your buck in this department. For instance, asphalt shingles tend to have a lifespan of between 15 and 30 years.

Other roofing material options, like metal, are even better and have been known to last for 100 years, depending on the type of material used. Generally, a metal roof can last for up to 50 years. That's because metal roofs are more durable and can withstand the harsh elements better than asphalt shingles which easily get damaged, cracked, or warped. If you have no plans to move or sell your home down the line, a standing seam metal roof is one of the best investments you can ever make. However, asphalt shingles are also a great option if you plan to sell your home in the future.

Consider How Durable the Roofing Material Is

Today, there are many energy-efficient roofing materials to help reduce your energy bill. Your best bet is to go with Energy Star labeled roofs. These can be found in a variety of materials, including asphalt, slate, and metal. Metal roofs, in particular, are highly energy efficient because they are able to reflect the sun's rays back into the sky. Metal roofs are also good at releasing the heat from the sun back into the environment instead of absorbing it. This can go a long way towards reducing your heating costs.

These are the top things to consider when choosing the right type of roofing material for you. Don't forget to consider whether you need a material warranty to come with your purchase. You should also do your homework to find an expert roof contractor for a quality installation. To save yourself the time and hassle of shopping for a roof contractor you can trust, consider giving us a call! You will never go wrong by choosing our high-quality roofing services.