A home is the greatest investment one can make. A home will protect the family, hold memories, and hopefully serve the family well by offering peace of mind. The homeowner will take great pride in the home and desire to “show it off”, also known as curb appeal.

Choosing the right roof for the home can be a challenging task. Some so many different options and decisions that must be made when choosing a roofing system. The most common roofing materials in Westfield include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, flat roofing, and cedar roofs. 

Here are some questions to ask when considering the best roof for your home: 

• How long will it last? 
• Will the system I am considering stand up to natural disasters such as wind storms, hail, and strong storms? 
• Is the system I am considering too heavy for the frame of my home? 
• Does the roof have enough slope?
• Will the look complement the style of my home? 
• Are the materials eco-friendly? 
• Is the type of roofing I am considering acceptable by local codes?
• How much will it cost to install? 

Let’s look at each of the roofing systems in more depth and answer the questions you may have. 

Asphalt

These shingles are the most common among all roofing materials. They are affordable and with financing options, can fit into anyone’s budget. Asphalt shingles are made from organic fiber mats or fiberglass and coated with asphalt and mineral granules. These shingles come in a large variety of colors and styles to complement many types of homes. Most homes can sufficiently support the weight of asphalt shingles, considering they are the lightest of all roofing materials. This material can be used on low to steeper-sloped roofs and are effective in fire and wind resistance. 

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles, however, it does last about twice as long. So that is something to consider when choosing a metal roofing material. Steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc alloy are used to make metal roofing. They are available in sheets or shingles. Metal is unique in that it can be recycled into other useful items. Perhaps outdoor decor or shelving units. Like asphalt shingles, metal is fairly lightweight and durable. This material is also good for low or steep-sloped roofs and is also resistant to fire and wind. 

Flat Roofing

This is a unique roofing material for residential homes. The area of a flat roof is ideal for a rooftop garden or relaxation area. The flat roof area has no slope and therefore takes less time to install. The price is less expensive as well. A downfall to a flat roof is the lack of water drainage. This could be a turnoff to a buyer of a home unless there is an effective system in place. The flat roof area must be used wisely to have it be a lovely addition to the home. 

Cedar Roofing

This roofing material is used with rot-resistant natural wood and offers a lovely natural look. As the home ages, the material weathers beautifully. Cedar does offer a reasonable lifespan and if you are willing to spend the money, can be a worthy long-term investment. The weight of this material is moderate, with good wind resistance. Unfortunately, cedar roofing must be treated with a fire retardant for safety considerations. 

It is quite tough to decide just which roofing material is best for your home. There are various options to choose from! It is wise to speak with NextGen Roofing in Westfield for assistance on your particular home. We have proudly served the local Western Massachusetts region with exceptional roofing and unmatched customer service! We have the knowledge to assist you in determining the best roof for your home. 

“Our reputation is in the proof, we’re the best for your roof!” Contact us today for a free inspection and more information!