A Good House Starts With a Strong Foundation—But It Doesn’t End There

A Good House Starts With a Strong Foundation—But It Doesn’t End There

Siding, interior design, landscape—they’re all equally important in coming together to form a home, and the roof is no exception. A distinguished roofline or eye-catching color scheme can set a home apart from every other on the street, so it’s important to spend time thinking about what you want your roof to look like. But how, exactly, does one go about that? Here’s everything you need to know when deciding what roof you want to adorn your house.

What Roof Is Best?

The short answer, as always, is that it depends. There are more than one dozen different materials and rooflines you can consider, and they can be combined in countless ways. Many factors can determine which roof is ideal; to make the best decision, it’s best to consider all the information so you can make an informed decision.

Considerations When Deciding on a Roof

There are several things you need to think about when considering which roof will be best for your new home.

Cost

Perhaps the most important factor is budget. The floor plan, materials, and installation process can cause costs to vary drastically. A material might not cost as much as others, but if it requires long-distance transportation or specialized skills to install, expect higher costs. Asphalt is often affordable, but for exceptionally large homes, expenses add up quickly.

Climate

No single material performs well in all climates. Porous options like cement are poor choices for rainy regions. Ceramic, which insulates against heat, is popular in the Southwest. Consult your builder for climate-specific recommendations.

Weight

Heavier materials require more structural support, impacting floor plans. Concrete roofs, for example, may limit open layouts. Discuss weight constraints with your builder or architect.

Design

Aesthetics matter. Wood suits traditional styles, while concrete, synthetics, or solar tiles align with modern designs. Balance visual appeal with practicality.

Roofing Materials

Asphalt

Affordable and quick to install, asphalt is common but lasts only ~20 years. Vulnerable to storm damage, it’s less ideal for harsh climates.

Ceramic

Durable (50+ years) and energy-efficient, ceramic tiles insulate against heat but are heavy and fragile during installation. Requires skilled craftsmanship.

Concrete and Clay

Durable and weather-resistant, these materials demand high costs and specialized home frames. Discuss feasibility with your builder.

Green Roofs

Eco-friendly and visually striking, green roofs improve air quality and reduce noise. Maintenance varies by complexity—simple greenery vs. full gardens.

Slate

Ideal for southern climates, slate resists mold and mildew, requires little upkeep, and offers cooling benefits. High upfront costs are a drawback.

Solar Tiles

Sleeker than traditional panels, solar tiles boost energy efficiency but suit only certain climates. High initial investment with long-term savings.

Synthetic

Lightweight and versatile, synthetic tiles mimic natural materials at lower costs. Eco-friendly and long-lasting, though newer to the market.

Wood

Timeless and sustainable, wood roofs require routine maintenance and skilled installation. Transportation costs can be prohibitive.

Roof Styles and Designs

Rooflines vary from steep slopes to flat mansards. Hip roofs complement colonial architecture, while skillion designs suit modern homes. Collaborate with your builder to align style with your home’s aesthetic.