Replacing or installing a new roof on a home can be a significant undertaking. The number of options of designs and materials available to you may seem overwhelming.
And a new roof is a major financial commitment. The good news though, is that it is a great investment. In fact, it is one of the smartest renovations you can do. Homeowners recoup upwards of 60 percent of the cost of their roof when they sell their house.
With such a big commitment, you will want to be sure you are choosing the best roof for your Myrtle Beach home. Fortunately, there are only a few major things to consider. Once you have a handle on the categories of roof styles and available materials, you can be confident that you are making the right decision for your home and your budget.
Roof Types
The first thing to do is to determine the best roof type for your home. Here are four common options.
Gable
A gable roof is a simple V-shape formed by two slopes that meet at a point at the top. The big advantage of this type of roof is its simplicity. It has a classic look and is one of the most economic options.
Hip
Hip roofs create a pitch with sloping sides stretching to the walls of the home. They are highly customizable and can hold up well in areas that get a lot of precipitation.
Hip roofs do require greater attention in installation. For that reason, they may incur increased labor costs over gable roofs.
Mansford
Mansford roofs, also known as “French roofs,” have two separate slopes. An upper, lower-pitched slope caps the roof, while a lower, almost vertical slope extends to the walls.
This style can provide a classic look and is ideal for homes that have dormers for windows or other openings. It is a good option if you wish to use the attic space beneath the roof.
Mansford-style roofs are the most complex in terms of installation. For this reason, they are the most expensive roofing layout.
Flat
Flat roofs are more common in commercial properties but are becoming popular in modern residential architecture. They are ideal for solar panel installation or rooftop gardens. Due to their simple design, they are very affordable.
Roofing Materials
Replacing a roof requires a lot of supplies. These may include flashing, nails, adhesives, and the many parts of the underlayment that helps reinforce against leaking and mold.
In terms of costs, most of these supplies are incidental. But the type of shingle you select will be a big determining factor in the overall price of your roof, so let’s consider your options.
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in the United States. This is because they are economical and easy to install. They also come in a variety of colors.
However, asphalt shingles can have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials. And they provide less insulation.
Asphalt roofing materials can range in quality. They may be a good option for your home, but be sure to select a high-quality one that will optimize insulation and longevity.
Metal
The biggest reason people choose a metal roof is its durability. While asphalt roofs last between 15 and 30 years, you can get 50 years or more out of a metal roof.
Given that they are more durable means less upkeep and fewer repairs as well. However, in general, metal roofs can cost more than twice that of asphalt ones.
Steel is the most common metal used in roofing. It is extremely durable and resistant to corrosion. Aluminum is growing in popularity though, due to its lighter weight and lower cost.
Copper and zinc are other metal options that combine durability with a distinct aesthetic for your home. They are some of the most expensive roofing materials on the market though.
Tile
One of the biggest reasons people select clay or concrete tile roofing is for its aesthetic appeal. It can add elegance and a distinct look to your home. For this reason, tile roofing can add a lot of value to your property as well.
Tile is very durable under normal conditions. In fact, it can last well over 100 years. However, it can be brittle under heavy impacts, like falling limbs or debris. This may be something to consider in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach that are susceptible to storms.
Another big advantage of tile is that it is extremely energy efficient. Their curved shape allows better ventilation so that hot air does not become trapped under the roof. And their heavier weight provides great insulation during the winter months.
Finally, tile roofing is one of the more environmentally friendly options. Since they are made from natural materials, they can be recycled.
Tile roofs come at a price. They may run two or three times more than asphalt. Concrete will be less expensive than genuine clay but is much heavier. Your roof structure must be able to handle this weight, so if your existing roof is not tile, there may be additional framing needed.
Slate
Slate roofing is very durable and can provide a unique look to your home. But, like asphalt, the quality of slate can vary. It also requires special framing, so it can incur greater labor costs as well.
Slate will be more expensive than other roofing materials in general. It can cost as much as five times more than asphalt.
Wood
Wood shingles offer a rustic look, and they generally last longer than asphalt roofs. But their lifespan can be reduced in wetter climates, due to mold or rot.
Wood roofing will cost more than asphalt but can be an economic alternative to other roofing materials.
Labor
While design and materials will impact cost, labor is another factor. Installation costs can amount to 60 percent of the total price tag of a new roof. There are several things to consider in this regard.
The layout of your roof will have a lot to do with labor costs. For instance, if your roof requires a great deal of flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights, this will warrant greater attention and time. If installers have to replace rotten wood or other parts of the roof structure, this too could incur greater costs.
Disposing of old shingles and underlayment can impact roofing labor costs as well. These expenses should be included in a roof quote, but it is something to consider when determining a budget for your project.
Get the Best Roof for Your Myrtle Beach Home
Now that you know your options in terms of style and material, you can get the ball rolling on your roofing renovation. And we can help you take the next step.
We have been serving the Myrtle Beach area for over 10 years. We’ve been recognized as one of the top 50 remodeling companies in the United States by Remodeling Magazine, as well as one of the top 100 roofing contractors in North America by Roofing Contractor Magazine.
We offer a wide variety of roofing options, as well as free consultations and cost estimates before we begin work. Using basic photos of your home, we can produce a 3D interactive model that can help you visualize what the final roofing design and layout will look like.
Also, we provide a guarantee on our products and labor. That way, you can have the peace of mind that you are getting the best roof for your Myrtle Beach home.
