Being the proud owner of an older home can be a privilege. The history, beauty and aged design of an old house is a thing to be loved, adored and most importantly, preserved. At Fowler Homes, we know that when your roof begins to show its age and it’s time to look for a replacement, you want one that complements your home, not debases it.
So what are the best roofing materials to suit your older home? That’s a surprisingly loaded question. Most roofing materials used today have been used in some shape, fashion or form for years, and in many cases even centuries. Before diving in, there are a few factors you have to take into consideration.
Choosing Your Older Home’s Roofing Material: Important Factors
There are a few things you’ll have to think about, and they may have an impact on your choices. These include:
- Roof load. Depending on the age, condition and structure of your home, some roofing materials, like slate or clay tiles, may simply be too heavy.
- Local building codes. This can be a huge factor in choosing your roofing material. Historic districts, planned communities, and communities that carry strict restrictions may limit you to only materials similar to or identical to the original roofing material used when the house was built.
Choosing the Best Roofing Materials
With the caveats out of the way, it’s time to look at some of our favorite roof materials to suit your gorgeous older home. You may think you’re limited to a few materials and styles, but you might be surprised…
- Metal. Many homeowners consider metal to be a ‘new age’ or modern material, but this could not be further from the truth! Copper and sheet metal roofs have been around since the 18th century, and many roofs constructed of these materials have lasted for a hundred years or more in the United States. Metal offers a versatile, sophisticated roofing solution for your home.
- Shake. Shake, whether true wood or a composite, is an excellent, traditional roofing solution. Composites in particular work well for older homes, as they tend to be lightweight, and on average boast higher fire and weather safety ratings.
- Tile. Tile was used heavily in colonial and mission style homes, particularly along the east coast. They boast solid safety ratings, and come in a variety of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find a type that fits your home’s style perfectly.
- Fiberglass and asphalt shingle. An old United States standby, composite shingles are a perfectly effective solution for an older home. They provide for all of your needs, and help you stay within a budget with no trouble at all! Additionally, asphalt shingles are one of the single most common roof types, meaning you stay on the mark for going ‘classic’!
The Best Roofing Materials with Fowler Homes in Canton, GA
No matter which roofing solution you choose for your home, the professionals at Fowler Homes are here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our roofing options, or with any questions!