Find Home Roofing Prices for Your City!

When Was Your Last Roofing Inspection?

If you're like many homeowners, you may not spend much time on your roof and might not know what condition it's in. You figure that if there's no rain or snow getting into your home, everything must be okay. The issue with that assumption is that by the time a roofing problem becomes obvious, local weather and seasonal conditions may have already caused costly water intrusion or structural damage.

Schedule Regular Inspections With a Local Roofing Contractor

The old adage that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" definitely applies to your roof. A local roofing contractor can spend an hour on your roof each year addressing small issues that — if left unattended — could lead to hundreds of dollars in interior damage. They can also provide guidance based on roofing needs common in your area, help you plan for a future replacement, and explain the materials that perform well in your local climate.

Choosing Types of Roofing Materials

When it's time to install a new roof, the materials you choose can dramatically change your home's appearance. Options like standing-seam metal, cedar shakes, asphalt shingles, or tile each offer a different style, and your roofing contractor can help advise which choices typically perform well in your region's climate and weather patterns.

Slate has been used for centuries and provides an elegant look, while modern asphalt shingles come in numerous styles and colors and are often the most budget friendly. Some shingles and metal roofing products are also designed to reflect heat, which may help lower summer cooling costs in warmer parts of the country. Your contractor may also recommend "green" options such as synthetic slate or aluminum, depending on local building requirements and climate suitability.

Pricing for a New Roof

The cost of a new roof can vary significantly based on the size and style of your home, the materials you choose, and labor rates in your local market. Asphalt shingles are typically the most economical, starting around $160 a square for materials and installation. Slate is among the most expensive choices and can exceed $800 per square.

The good news is that homeowners may recover a portion of the cost when selling their home. The Journal of Light Construction's "Cost vs. Value Survey" shows that the return on investment for a new roof often averages around 60% nationwide, though actual resale value can fluctuate depending on local real estate conditions.