Does it seem like your home is having a bad hair day? It’s probably time to give it a new style by replacing your roof with one that will make your neighbours green with envy. eieihome spoke to Wayne Palmer of George Kent Home Improvements, a Toronto home improvement company that has been in business since 1949, about how you can pick the right style of roof.
Do your research
Choosing a new roof can be overwhelming with the wide number of options out there. Talk to your roofing contractor about your choices, make sure to take into account the type of roof you have and your region’s climate. You can also use online sources, like eieihome.com, to get more information before you make your final decision.
Find your style
“The architectural style of your home can determine the style of your roof,” says Wayne Palmer. “For example homes with a more modern style tend to have roof shingles that have clean lines, while more rustic style homes may have slate or a wood-shake look. Upgraded shingles can create a more distinctive look allowing for greater colour variation and depth perception.
Plan a budget
While style is important when picking a roof, you have to make sure that it aligns with your budget as well. “When it’s time for a new roof too many people look for the least expensive option instead of something that will not only make their neighbours envious but also improve the future re-sale value of their home,” says Wayne Palmer. Paying extra for an upgraded shingle makes sense since generally the labor and accessory costs remain the same. It’s an initial costly investment that will add value to your home in the long run.
Accessorize your roof
Just as you would add a beautiful necklace or pair of earrings to complement an evening dress, there are great roofing accessories as well. One example would be replacing the standard turbines or vents on your roof with a ridge vent. These vents are installed at the peak of the roof and appear as part of the shingles so the roof has a much cleaner look. They are also more efficient than standard turbines.
Picture your home
Sometimes you can have a hard time visualizing what your home would look like with a new roof. It is important to remember that while the architectural style can help determine the type of roof you get, it still needs to fit your personal style. “GAF.com has a fantastic program, The Virtual Home Remodeler, which allows you to upload a picture of your home and play with different roofing options,” says Wayne Palmer.
Choose your roofer
It’s important to choose the right roofer for the job. Make sure they have had experience with roofs and shingles that are similar to yours. The right man for the job is also willing to offer you the expertise and help you need when it comes to both choosing and installing your new roof. “George Kent has been in business since 1949 and in that time we have done thousands of roofs and leave our clients smiling.”
Do you need a little help in picking a new roof? Contact George Kent Home Improvements or visit eieihome.com to learn more.
