The roof of your home protects you and your possessions from the elements. Its design, materials and construction are important to the comfort and value of your house.

Heavy roofing materials like slate and concrete require specialized framing, so they can add to initial costs. But they also last a long time and shrug off snow well.

Whether it is built from clay, concrete, wood or metal, a roof protects the living space below from moisture and heat. When the time comes to replace a home’s roof, it is important to choose the best material for the climate and style of house.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in America, and for good reason: they’re affordable, easy to install and offer a wide range of colors and styles. They are also highly effective at preventing water damage and insulate well.

Slate is a natural material that dates back thousands of years and is one of the most durable steep-sloped roofing materials available. Its chemical and mineral makeup allows it to exhibit many different hues. However, slate is also one of the heaviest roofing materials and requires structural reinforcements before it can be installed.

Rubber roofing is a single-membrane system that can be applied to flat or low-slope roofs. Its longevity and energy efficiency are a major draw for some homeowners, but it can have a distinct odor that some find unpleasant.

Thermo-polyolefin (TPO) and vinyl roof membranes are fast becoming the most popular alternatives to traditional asphalt shingles. They’re less prone to tearing and have better durability against extreme temperatures. They’re often lighter in color, reducing the amount of heat they absorb.

Clay tiles are another durable option that offers a unique, textured look for homes. They’re resistant to rot, insects and corrosion and can last 50 years or more. They’re also eco-friendly, replenishing oxygen levels and preventing the “heat island effect” in urban areas.

Concrete tiles are a durable and versatile alternative to traditional shingles. They can withstand extreme heat and are resistant to fire, wind and hail. The downside is that they’re heavier than shingles and require more support before being installed. The extra weight can also raise installation costs and maintenance requirements. These are best for dry, hot climates and can add to a home’s resale value. They’re also known as cement terra-cotta tiles or glazed earthenware tile.

Installation

Any part of a home’s exterior gets assaulted by rain, snow, bitter cold, hot sunlight and wind, but the roof usually takes the brunt of the damage. A quality roof provides protection, energy efficiency, and enhanced curb appeal for years to come. Roofing is a meticulous process and requires skill and expertise. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, understanding the steps of roofing can help ensure a successful project.

When the crew arrives, they will begin by setting up protective measures. Tarps and wooden boards are placed over anything near the roof line, including landscaping and pools (if applicable). This lets any debris fall to the ground rather than onto your possessions below.

Then, the underlayment is fastened to the shingles. The first row is nailed close to the edge, and then nails are spread farther apart as the rows go down. This is done to prevent leaks and provide added strength. The shingle is then nailed to the underlayment, with the nail heads covered by cap nails to conceal them from moisture and pests.

Maintenance

Any home part that is exposed to the elements needs regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Roofs get the worst of it, though, assaulted by wind, rain, hail, bitter cold, intense heat, strong sunlight, and all kinds of debris that blows up off the trees. Keeping it looking good requires an investment, but it also protects what’s inside the house.

Among the most important maintenance tasks are cleaning gutters to prevent debris build-up; removing leaves and other organic growth that can clog drains; and inspecting the roof on a regular basis for damage and potential problems. The soffit and fascia should be looked at closely from a safe vantage point to make sure they’re free of moisture damage; a look at the flashing (the strips of metal installed where two sections of the roof meet) can help prevent leaks, and checking on chimneys, skylights, and vents is a good idea as well.

If the caulking around chimneys and vent pipes has started to lift in places or come away altogether, it’s time to replace it. Doing so will stop water from seeping into the home.

It’s a good idea to have the roof inspected after a major storm and at least twice a year as a general rule. A professional can check for a variety of issues, including the shingle condition (bad or missing), the presence of pests or insects, and the integrity of the ventilation system. They can also trim tree limbs that hang over the roof and check to make sure the seals on any roof penetrations like skylights or vents are in good shape. They can also repair the rubber parts of gutters and apply a fresh coat of caulking.

Warranty

The warranty offered by a roofing company is one of the most important factors in choosing a contractor. It mitigates the risks of their craftsmanship and gives you essential security through a dependable warranty built to protect your home for a lifetime. A good roofing warranty is backed by a strong track record, a commitment to customer service and thorough inspections of each job. It is also vital to make sure you understand the terms of the warranty and are following all rules and regulations.

There are three basic types of roofing warranties: manufacturer, workmanship, and system. The length of these warranties varies depending on the roofing materials used and may include both labor and material costs. The most common is a manufacturer warranty, which covers issues with the material itself and can range from a few years to several decades. Manufacturer warranties are typically included with the purchase of roofing materials and must be registered with the manufacturer in order to be valid.

Many manufacturers only offer a manufacturer warranty to customers who use their roofing products with certified contractors, and require that the work is performed according to specific guidelines. These requirements help ensure that the roof is installed properly and can be maintained efficiently. This type of warranty is not transferable, meaning that it will be void if you sell your home during the warranty period.

Most reputable roofing companies will offer a workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer warranty, covering installation errors and other problems caused by improper workmanship. This is especially important in the case of high-end roofing materials, which are often covered by manufacturer warranties only when they are installed by a professional. A good workmanship warranty will cover any installation errors, shingle defects or damage that occur during the construction of your roof. It will not cover damage caused by natural disasters, extreme weather events, foot traffic, or alterations made after the completion of your roof.

There are also several other things to keep in mind when reviewing a roof warranty. Always read the fine print and ask questions about any parts of the warranty that you are not clear on. It is also important to know that a warranty can be voided by not following the rules and guidelines, such as using the item for its intended purpose or failing to conduct regular maintenance.