When it comes to choosing roofing material for your home, there are a number of factors to consider. Aesthetics are one aspect, but equally important are durability and cost. No property owner wants to break the bank on roofing material, nor do they want to have to get their roof repaired or reinstalled a few years down the line. These considerations are especially important in a climate like the one in New Orleans, where hot, humid temperatures and tropical storms are common. High heat and heavy rains have the potential to significantly impact the lifespan of your roofing material, and in doing so, compromise the rest of your property. 

But how do you go about choosing the best roofing material, one that fits within your budget and suits your personal aesthetics while also lasting for as long as possible? That is where the experts at WestBank Roofing come in. Our certified roofing contractors can assist home- and property-owners in finding the best roofing material to suit your building while making sure to take your wants and needs into consideration. 

Materials Available at WestBank Roofing

At WestBank Roofing, we offer a variety of high-quality roofing materials which are sure to appeal to your needs and preferences. These include:

  • Fiberglass asphalt: An affordable, sturdy option, our asphalt shingles combine asphalt with a fiberglass mat in order to improve their lifespan. This common roofing material comes in a variety of styles and colors, allowing it to both complement and protect your property. 
  • Metal: Our metal roofing comes in three different forms—arpanel, corrugated and standing seam. Additionally, we offer custom architectural metal roofs, allowing you to work with our roofing contractors to craft something stylish and suitable for your building.
  • Flat roofing: If you are looking for a roof structure to suit a business or modern home, flat roofing may be the choice for you. During construction of a flat roof, our roofing contractors may utilize modified bitumen, an asphalt-based material, or synthetic rubber roofing membranes, both of which are highly capable of protecting your building from water damage when installed properly. 

Factors Which May Influence Your Roofing Decisions

With such a wide variety of roofing materials on the market—clay tiles, wooden and asphalt shingles, and metal paneling among them—it can be difficult to choose the best one for your property. As a starting point, take the time to consider these factors:

Cost

Asphalt and fiberglass shingles, as well as flat roofs, are often some of the most cost-effective roofing options, making them a relatively popular choice. Metal paneling can also be both a long-lasting and visually appealing addition to your property. However, certain types—particularly standing seam panels—may be one of the more expensive roofing options due to the quality of the material. Similarly, wood and tile shingles range in price, with some options significantly more affordable than others. 

Durability

How durable materials are is often reflected in their cost. The higher quality the material, the more expensive it is likely to be. For example, while properly installed asphalt shingles aren’t going to crack or leak after a light rainfall, they are also unlikely to last more than a few decades. High-quality asphalt shingles, however, may actually last as long as—if not longer than—the more affordable styles of wooden shingles. 

Similarly, the longevity of metal panelling depends on maintenance and the type of panelling used, with the potential to last from around 40 years to nearly a century. The same applies to certain types of tiling—such as clay and cement—which can last from around 50 years to a century. Slate tiles are often the most expensive and the most durable, expected to last for a century or more.

Climate

The climate you live in, and any natural disasters your area is prone to, are necessary considerations for any property owner. While wooden shingles may look attractive and last for several decades under the right conditions, they are also susceptible to mold and mildew in wet climates. Asphalt shingles are relatively durable, but are prone to degrading when regularly exposed to rain or heat. Metal panels and some tiles also have their flaws, but both are resistant to heat and moisture absorption, potentially allowing them to last longer in heat- and rain-prone climates.

Aesthetics

While you can spend hours looking at online guides for what colors or styles would complement your home, in the end, what your aesthetic choice should come down to is what you like best. Focus on your own personal styles and color preferences, and make the decision which suits you rather than conforming to the opinions of others. 

Get Professional Advice and Expert Assistance From Our Knowledgeable Roofing Contractors

With over 50 years of experience in our field, WestBank Roofing is here to help you achieve your property design goals while still ensuring the security of your building for a long time to come. Alongside professional advice and free estimates for the cost of your project, our roofing contractors will conduct home inspections before any scheduled roof replacements or roof repairs. This allows us to assess any damage and gain a better understanding of your needs. Additionally, as certified Fortified roofing contractors and certified GAF roofing contractors, you can rest assured that all roof installations are completed to the highest standards possible.

Choose WestBank Roofing for Your Roof Installation Needs

Choosing roofing material can be a difficult task for any property owner, particularly those with a limited budget. Weighing expense against durability and aesthetics is no mean feat, particularly in a climate as varied as the one in New Orleans. But when you work with WestBank Roofing, know that you will not have to make this decision alone. Our expert roofing contractors are available to provide information and professional insights, making sure your property gets what it needs while also considering your aesthetic preferences. So if you are ready to replace or renovate your roof, contact us to schedule a roofing material consultation today.