Whether you
are embarking on a quasi-grand designs project, contemplating upgrading your
roof to an environmentally friendly design, or getting a loft conversion, we
have put together a comprehensive guide to picking the perfect roof, courtesy
of our expert roofers at W R Leivers.
Now, more
than ever, we are looking towards ways in which we can make our lives more
energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Which can lead us to transform
our home with various SMART technology, making sure our windows are double or
triple glazed and insulating your roof. Yet, your roof structure and materials
can lend themselves too, according to a recent blog by GreenMatch, in 2018 the interest
and installation of solar power options almost doubled. Plus, experts are
pushing for one in three households by 2020 to have installed solar panels. So,
your home could be next.
Finding the
right design idea that will complement your home or commercial property is
actually more difficult than you would initially think. Simply because, there
is a range of styles to choose from, including numerous roof materials. But,
that doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun too, and having too much choice is never
a bad thing! Just remember to keep a positive mindset throughout the process to
avoid feeling overwhelmed, as a new roof can really transform your home and
give it a new lease of life.
The Most Common and Stylish Roof Designs
First and foremost,
we will detail the most common roof designs for domestic and commercial
properties. This will briefly give you an overview of what is out there and
what many roofing companies can provide:
Roof Designs:
● Flat
Roof
-
Flat roofing is a modern design that is leading contemporary architecture.
Plus, flat roofs are cost-effective, as they can create extra space for your
home and you have the potential to make it good for the environment; whether
that is installing a chic roof garden, water tanks or solar panels.
● Pyramid Hip Roof
- One of the simplest roof designs for homes, the name is a large clue to
its design features. It is famed for its durability as well as possessing eaves
which provides extra shade for sitting outside in the hot sun.
● Gable Roof -
Another common roof shape, you will have definitely seen this when walking
through the streets of suburbs. Consisting of two slopes that meets at the top,
it is a highly affordable design hence its popularity.
● Shed Roofs -
Also
known as skillion roofs, these roofs, like flat roofs, are associated with
modern architecture and they are relatively simplistic in its design features
as well as being affordable. Again, like flat roofs, they are a great option if
you are planning on having solar panels installed.
● Curved Roof -
One
of the most aesthetic designs, curved roofs are as practical as they are
stylish, this is because they are proven to reduce indoor temperature, and
perfect for a variety of climates.
Now that we
have detailed some of the most common roof designs, we will endeavour to
explain the next step in choosing a roof: materials. Of course, having a good
roofing material is important to the protection and insulation of your property.
And, it is imperative that you choose a reliable and efficient roofing company
who will ensure that the roof is built to perfection - as this will reduce the
risk of future damage and leaks.
Roofing Materials:
● Asphalt Shingles -
Typically lasting 20 to 30 years, asphalt shingles come in a variety of
different colours and they are also known as being affordable - so, you can
easily transform your home into a Mediterranean palace.
● Metal Roofing
-
A chic alternative to classic roofing materials, metal roofs can last between
40 to 100 years, depending on the type of metal that you choose. One of the
most striking choices are copper roofs, lasting the longest and changing to the
pale green shade over time which gives your home a long-lasting aesthetic.
● Wood Shake Roof -
for those who are eco-conscious, a wood shake roof is probably the
perfect option for your home. Reducing energy consumption and resistant to
decay, it is a durable and practical choice and lasts around 20 to 40 years.
● Slate Roof
-
Slate roofs have been used for centuries, and we can see why! Consistently a
popular choice, they are very durable and recyclable. Meaning that, they are
also a suitable option for those who want to upgrade the eco-properties of
their home. Plus, slate roofs have an incredible lifespan of 50 to 125 years.
● EPDM Flat Roofing -
A more modern roofing material, EPDM roofing is constructed from a rubber
membrane. Both flexible and affordable, it can give your home protection and
insulation in warm and cool temperatures. Plus, EPDM roofing lasts for 22 to 35
years.
How changing your roof design can upsell your
property
One of the
key parts of the decision-making process in changing or upgrading your roof is
whether this will change the price of your property if you do choose in the
future to upsell Especially, as illustrated above, roofing materials last for a
long time, so it is a likely chance that you will choose to move at some point
after the roof renovation. In this case, we have illustrated four main selling
features that a new roof can provide you with below:
Roof Garden -
Roof gardens are beautiful features
that keep cropping up in homes and commercial properties. A great way to
maximise a flat roof, being that they can provide a spot of greenery in dense
urban cities, and create a sense of an infinity garden in a rural home. From
adding stunning garden furniture, like hammocks, swinging chairs and rattan
features, to state of the art barbecues, and mini allotments, there are a
variety of ways to utilise the space to make it an extension of your home or
another entertaining area.
Solar Panels -
As mentioned previously, the rise in
solar panel installation is a sign that our society is coming to grips with the
fact that our precious resources need preserving. Adding solar panels to home
can also increase the price of your property. From enticing future buyers with
lower electricity bills, to needing little upkeep and maintenance they are
always a fantastic addition to your home.
Skylights
- Skylights, or VELUX windows, are a
great addition to modern homes as they allow for an abundance of natural
sunlight into otherwise dark rooms. They can be added onto any new or existing
extension and they can come in a variety of different shapes, instantly
breathing new life into your home.
Loft Conversion
- A consistently popular choice,
loft conversions are a great way to add value to your home. This is because it
adds another living space and makes your home feel more open plan. Often
accompanied with skylights, loft conversions are ideal for homes with gable and
pyramid roof shapes, providing an angular Scandinavian appearance. They also
provide plenty of atmosphere as a bedroom, nursery, or living area.
Alternatively, if you are an artsy person, it could be an opportune moment for
a stylish artist studio!
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
Now that you
have dreamt up your ideal home, it is time for the important part - how much
will a new roof cost?
This
completely depends on the dimensions of your home, the style of the roof and
the materials that you choose. With this in mind, it will always be tempting to
go for the most affordable option, but this may not necessarily be the most
practical in the long run. Especially, if you plan on living in your home for a
very long time, or passing it down to your children and grandchildren. Plus, it
can be assumed that the more stylish the roof is, it will incur a higher cost.
So you have to prioritise what is most important to you. There is simply no
shame in choosing an aesthetic, yet more expensive option! Especially, if it
brings a smile to your face when you approach your home.
W R
Leivers: Experienced and Quality Roofers in Nottingham and Derby
Transform
your midlands home with W R Leivers, experienced roofers that are based in
Nottingham and Derby. We hope that this blog post on finding the perfect roof,
and the different factors to consider, have eased your mind about this
decision. Simply put, there is no defining perfect roof as perfection is in the
eye of the beholder. Yet we understand that you will want to put pride into
your home. Hence why we consistently deliver incredible results each time.
Our knowledgeable roofers can provide a range of
different roofing styles including flat roofs, and offering a variety of tiling
options. Plus, we also can conduct roof repairs as well as guttering. To find
out more about how we can transform your home,
contact
us today.
