How to Choose the Right Roofing for Your Custom Home

May 12, 2022

As you start planning your custom home, you’re probably much more excited to plan the fun things rather than the practical things. But, the practical things are important, too, and require some thought and research. Roofing is a very important component of your home, but with all the options out there, choosing the right material, figuring out angles, adding enhancements, etc. can be overwhelming. Here’s how to choose the right roofing for your custom home:

1. Style

Roofing can offer a few different aesthetics, depending on which material you choose. The material you end up choosing should match your home’s general exterior finish. For example, you wouldn’t want to choose clay tiles for roofing on a home that isn’t at least somewhat reminiscent of a Spanish, Hacienda, or Mediterranean-style home.

If your home is of the Cape Cod variety, consider choosing natural cedar shake shingles. This is part of a classic Cape Cod design and will add to your home. Colonial-style homes often have natural wood shingles, as well. Metal roofing looks out of place on a 60s Ranch-style home, but works well on Craftsman, Mid-Century, or Modern-style homes.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t use these materials. Some roofing materials are made to mimic old styles. Some metal roofing is made to look like wood or tile while some fiber cement is made to look like slate shingles. This allows you to use the type of material you want without sacrificing a certain look.

2. Weather

Keep your local climate in mind as you weigh your roofing options. Roofing is one of the main barriers between the weather and your cozy home. Certain materials and styles are best suited for specific weather and climates.

Slate and slate alternatives are a great option in wetter climates. Slate is resistant to mildew, and if applied with a waterproof back, it can be the perfect fit for your custom home.

Metal roofing is great for areas that experience heavy rain or snow. Metal roofs allow for large amounts of snow to slide off, which keeps heavy weight off of your home. Plus, they can withstand high winds.

If you live in a warmer climate, clay and ceramic materials are a great option. This type of roofing doesn’t hold heat like other materials tend to. They also tend to fade less than other types of roofing materials.

3. Cost

Cost is an important factor to keep in mind as you think about what roofing you want on your custom home. Certain materials can be cheaper to use but may require more upkeep and might not last as long.

Asphalt-fiberglass shingles are a great lower-cost choice. They are at the lower end, cost-wise, with copper roofs being the most expensive. Wood, slate, clay, and certain types of metal roofing all fall in the middle of cost ranges.

Keep installation cost in mind, too. Some materials require less labor while some materials, like slate, are very labor-intensive.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you choose the right roofing for your custom home. If you’re ready to get started designing and building your own custom home, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090. We’ll help bring your dream home to life!