Your roof performs many functions for your home, including some you may not be aware. Your roof is a critical part of your energy conservation, keeping heating costs down in the winter and cooling costs down in the summer. It also adds to the curb appeal of your home, increasing its value when it is time to sell. Of course, your roof is also responsible for keeping the elements like snow, rain, and ice out of your home. When it is time to replace your roof, there are some things that you need to know in order for your roof to continue protecting your home. RGB Construction offers these four factors that you need to keep in mind when considering a roof replacement.
Materials and Workmanship are Critical
New Jersey has a harsh climate with areas of the state getting significant snow and ice in the winter. In fact, there have been areas where the winter temperature dropped to 34 below. In the summer, most areas of New Jersey also deal with extreme temperatures which can also take a toll on your roof. Temperatures have reached as high as 110 degrees. For this reason, the material used on your roof and the workmanship used to install it are critical. Not only do extreme temperatures as well as snow or ice put a strain on your roof, but New Jersey is also susceptible to storms that contain high winds, especially hurricanes and tropical storms.
If you plan to install asphalt shingles, look for roofers in NJ who are GAF Master Elite Certified, something only three percent of all roofing companies can claim. This will guarantee the company will only use the highest quality materials and that their technicians have undergone extensive training.
Durability and Maintenance
Another factor to consider when choosing roofing materials is how durable that material is and what maintenance is required so that the materials remain durable. Because of the extreme temperature changes that can occur, roofing companies in NJ recommend choosing a material that will withstand wind, heavy rain, extreme temperatures, and even hail. New Jersey consistently ranks among the top ten states for hail damage, so you want to be sure you choose a material that resists damage from hail. Clay and concrete tiles as well as metal have proven to be the most durable for homes in New Jersey. These types of roofing materials also require less maintenance than other types, although you will still want to have your roof inspected annually.
Factory Certifications and Warranties
The factory certifications and warranties that come with a new roof are also important to factor in when choosing roofing materials. As mentioned, choosing a GAF Master Elite Certified contractor provides you with roofers in NJ that are highly trained and who use only the best quality material. In addition, manufacturers offer warranties on the products they sell. For example, most shingles have a 20 to 30-year warranty which usually covers the cost of replacement shingles, although it may not cover the cost of installation. If your roof was installed improperly, the warranty may be invalid which is another reason to choose a highly qualified roofing company. Roofing companies may also offer a workmanship warranty that will cover any mistakes made when the roof was installed. You may see companies that offer a “lifetime” warranty, but this can often be misleading. In most cases, a lifetime warranty does not mean your lifetime, but the average lifespan of the roof. However, there are some “lifetime” warranties that only last for five years, so it is important to read the fine print on your warranty before choosing a roofing material.
Aesthetically Pleasing
There is no question that you want your roof to complement your home and that you want it to look good once it is installed. Therefore, you may want to consider the various types of roofing available. Although asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roof installed by roofing companies in NJ as they are affordable and require little maintenance, some homeowners find them limited when it comes to design ideas. With the growth in popularity of architectural shingles, roofers in NJ say this is growing less common, but some people do prefer a unique look to their roofs.
Tile is very popular in New Jersey as well, but designs can be even more limited than asphalt shingles. They are also more expensive although they require very little maintenance. Metal is another popular option for roofing materials and, although more expensive than asphalt shingles, are available in a wide range of colors. They require very little maintenance and are resistant to weather damage. Wood shake roofing provides a more rustic appearance to your home and this type of material offers many design options. It is much more expensive than other types of roofing but is resistant to weather damage. However, they do require more maintenance than other types of roofing, according to RGB Construction.
If you are considering a new roof on your home, contact RGB Construction today to see how we can help. Our amazing team can guide you through the entire process, helping you choose the roof that works best for you and your family. Schedule a no-obligation consultation by filling out the easy online form or you can give us a call at 856-264-9093 today to learn more about our roofing options.
