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How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Climate

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Overview of How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Climate

Selecting the proper roof for your climate is a vitally important decision with consequences for your home's durability and energy efficiency. Hot and sunny places do not require the same kind of roofing materials as cold areas, which must rely on roofs that can withstand severe snow loads and freeze-thaw cycles. Moist and humid conditions don't require the same roofing materials as dry and arid conditions. No matter the kind of climate you're living in, there are certain roof types that will best serve the specific conditions you encounter.

Different climates call for different roofing materials. For many regions, the most cost-effective and versatile option is asphalt shingles. Metal roofs work very well in both hot and cold climates, and their durability leaves them with a long lifespan. Tile roofs—made from either clay or concrete—do an excellent job of keeping homes cool, and that makes them ideal for the hot, dry parts of the country. In those same areas, slate does well for roofs, though it tends to be on the pricier side; that said, it offers a long lifespan and does well in the cold. Wood shakes offer tremendous insulation—that's what makes them work well in "cool roofing" situations—but they require a lot of maintenance and aren't the best option in humid climates.

There are also installation and upkeep aspects to consider when it comes to choosing the "best" roof for your climate. Moisture and condensation control are key for any roof. You do have to make sure that the roof is not allowing either to happen, either by venting moist air away from the roof assembly or by keeping the roof assembly cold enough that condensation can't form. How you accomplish that, and how much insulation you need, depends a fair amount on where you are; local climatology does make a difference in how well roofing systems work. Beyond your area's basic climate, special local weather conditions—like a lot of rainfall, freezing wind, or tornadoes—require different roofing setups. Your local professional can advise you further on that.

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Client Testimonials

Carrie W.

For over three decades, I have called Las Vegas home, and in that time, I have never met a more dependable <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-las-vegas/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="1938">roofing</a> contractor. When the roof of my aged mother's home needed urgent repairs, I was, to say the least, concerned about the process of finding trustworthy professionals to do the job. Yet, Las Vegas <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-north-las-vegas/" title="Roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3095">Roofing</a> Company turned out to be just the right fit. From start to finish—without any express or implied warranty—they took care of my mother and her <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-sunrise-manor/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3932">roofing</a> needs with extreme care and patience. These guys are the kind of trustworthy professionals that you pray to find when you have an urgent <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-winchester/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="4934">roofing</a> need.

Carrie W.

Brian R.

As a property manager responsible for a large apartment complex, I have had to interact with many roofing companies. Standing above them all is Las Vegas Roofing. They approached our commercial roofing job with awesome skill and coordination. They finished ahead of schedule and under budget. I have never seen such vigor and enthusiasm in a work crew. They must be well led; there is always evidence of good leadership when you see a construction crew working like this one did. If there is any kind of roof on our property in the future that needs fixing or if there is any new kind of roofing job, we will definitely use Las Vegas Roofing.

Brian R.

Romas Family

When it was finally necessary to change the roof on our family residence, we were presented with a plethora of alternatives. Las Vegas Roofing truly simplified this process for us. A representative of the company took us through the many choices—each one a viable option, but some better suited to our home than others. We settled on a choice of color and texture. The installation team was prompt and worked well together. They respected our property and left the job site cleaner than they found it. The most spectacular part of the job was that they took extra care to ensure that the rose bushes in front of our house were not damaged—a necessity since those roses are our pride and joy. The new roof looks great, and I have no doubt that it will perform well even under the harshest conditions that the Vegas sun can dish out.

Romas Family

Joan A.

As an architect, I have very particular standards for construction work on my own home. Las Vegas Roofing met and surpassed my expectations. Their understanding of state-of-the-art roofing technology impressed me. They executed my design for a modern, energy-efficient roof flawlessly. Every detail reflected the crew's skill, from the precision of the installation to the immaculate cleanup. They were able to smooth over several last-minute design changes without any hitch. The roof is both functional and beautiful. I've recommended Las Vegas Roofing to clients already, and I will continue to do so.

Joan A.

Dean R.

I am very impressed with the work done by Las Vegas Roofing. When a sudden leak developed during a rare desert downpour, they were at my house within a few hours. They quickly found the problem and had it fixed in short order. Their efficiency was remarkable. They explained everything to me in "normal people" terms and kept me up to date every step of the way. I already have recommended them to my neighbors and will call them again if I have any roofing needs.

Dean R.

Key Factors Influencing How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Climate

When choosing the ideal roof for your region's climate, several main factors are in play that can dramatically affect your home's comfort, energy efficiency, and longevity. Most important are the local weather patterns—temperature, precipitation, sunlight—which come into direct contact with your roofing material and test its performance. Even within a single climate zone, such as the Southeast, there are many local variations; for instance, the coastal climate is quite different from that of the foothills. Roofing that's not well-suited to our specific type of weather can lead to comfortable, energy-inefficient, and even dangerously unhealthy homes. صيغة مبتذلة:

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best roof for your climate is energy efficiency. In hot regions, roofing materials that reflect heat can help lower cooling costs. So-called "cool roofs," which are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, are particularly well-suited to sunny areas. On the other hand, in cold climates, good-quality roofing materials that insulate well can help keep the house warm and reduce heating expenses. Lighter-colored roofs reflect more sunlight than darker roofs, which absorb more heat. Of course, the color of the roofing material you choose is only one determiner of its overall energy efficiency. Another is how well the material may work with (or against) your roof's structural design; for instance, does it have appropriate overhangs and functioning eaves? You should definitely consult with your roofer about these factors before making a selection.

When selecting the ideal roofing material for your climate, you must consider not only the appearance and affordability of the material but also its lifespan and maintenance requirements. Although some materials, such as metal or slate, last much longer than others and are more "timeless," they can also be significantly pricier. On the other hand, asphalt shingles, which are quite affordable, may require more replacements and repairs, which could impinge on your time and spending as well. Again, you must weigh the seemingly exorbitant prices against the likely longevity of the materials. When choosing a roof for your home, you need to think about how well the various options will hold up against the particular problems your region encounters. Will the problems your area sees cause any of the issues common to certain materials, such as warping or buckling? Or will your roofing material be too heavy and require a support structure that could compromise other parts of your home? Consider not just resistance but also local expertise in the installation and maintenance of the roofing option you're considering. Also, keep in mind the appearance of your future roof; is it going to be a necessary eyesore?

Call Now - (725) 745-3311
>

Client Testimonials

Carrie W.

For over three decades, I have called Las Vegas home, and in that time, I have never met a more dependable <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-las-vegas/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="1938">roofing</a> contractor. When the roof of my aged mother's home needed urgent repairs, I was, to say the least, concerned about the process of finding trustworthy professionals to do the job. Yet, Las Vegas <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-north-las-vegas/" title="Roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3095">Roofing</a> Company turned out to be just the right fit. From start to finish—without any express or implied warranty—they took care of my mother and her <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-sunrise-manor/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3932">roofing</a> needs with extreme care and patience. These guys are the kind of trustworthy professionals that you pray to find when you have an urgent <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-winchester/" title="roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="4934">roofing</a> need.

Carrie W.

Brian R.

As a property manager responsible for a large apartment complex, I have had to interact with many roofing companies. Standing above them all is Las Vegas Roofing. They approached our commercial roofing job with awesome skill and coordination. They finished ahead of schedule and under budget. I have never seen such vigor and enthusiasm in a work crew. They must be well led; there is always evidence of good leadership when you see a construction crew working like this one did. If there is any kind of roof on our property in the future that needs fixing or if there is any new kind of roofing job, we will definitely use Las Vegas Roofing.

Brian R.

Romas Family

When it was finally necessary to change the roof on our family residence, we were presented with a plethora of alternatives. Las Vegas Roofing truly simplified this process for us. A representative of the company took us through the many choices—each one a viable option, but some better suited to our home than others. We settled on a choice of color and texture. The installation team was prompt and worked well together. They respected our property and left the job site cleaner than they found it. The most spectacular part of the job was that they took extra care to ensure that the rose bushes in front of our house were not damaged—a necessity since those roses are our pride and joy. The new roof looks great, and I have no doubt that it will perform well even under the harshest conditions that the Vegas sun can dish out.

Romas Family

Joan A.

As an architect, I have very particular standards for construction work on my own home. Las Vegas Roofing met and surpassed my expectations. Their understanding of state-of-the-art roofing technology impressed me. They executed my design for a modern, energy-efficient roof flawlessly. Every detail reflected the crew's skill, from the precision of the installation to the immaculate cleanup. They were able to smooth over several last-minute design changes without any hitch. The roof is both functional and beautiful. I've recommended Las Vegas Roofing to clients already, and I will continue to do so.

Joan A.

Dean R.

I am very impressed with the work done by Las Vegas Roofing. When a sudden leak developed during a rare desert downpour, they were at my house within a few hours. They quickly found the problem and had it fixed in short order. Their efficiency was remarkable. They explained everything to me in "normal people" terms and kept me up to date every step of the way. I already have recommended them to my neighbors and will call them again if I have any roofing needs.

Dean R.

Importance of How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Climate

Choosing the appropriate roof for your climate is a key choice that can heavily affect your home's durability, energy efficiency, and general comfort. Different climates present different challenges—different roofing materials face different threats from nature, and choosing the wrong type for your climate can lead to quick degradation, rising maintenance costs, and slumping energy efficiency. In parts of the country with sweltering heat or flooding rain (or some combination), the roof is your home's first line of defense and most plays a huge part in keeping it cool, warm, or dry. That is why it's essential to understand the roofing materials that work best with various types of weather before making a decision.

Different roofing materials have their own pros and cons based on the kind of weather they experience. For example, in hot, sunny regions, you get a couple of different options that could work: a highly reflective material like metal roofing or light-colored tiles that are specially made to convey heat (and therefore not let it come into the building). These kinds of roofs reduce energy costs and keep the building cool. On the other hand, if you live in a place that gets a ton of snowfall, you're probably going to benefit from a roof that's got a steep pitch that's made out of something super durable (and you definitely don’t want roofing that is mold-friendly). And if you live in a coastal area that's prone to hurricanes, then impact-resistant roofing that can take those high winds and not be shredded is definitely a must, or else you're gonna pay and pay in repairs after every storm.

Selecting the right roof is important. However, it is not just about immediate protection from the weather. "Over the long haul, a well-selected roof can yield substantial energy savings, affecting insulation and the total load put on heating and cooling systems," says Henry Gifford of Gifford Building & Energy Consulting LLC. Also, "the roof can contribute to the overall value of your property... and it can affect the insurance you pay... Especially in areas that are prone to severe natural disasters, you can potentially lower your insurance premiums." And finally, the climate-appropriate roof can yield a much longer lifespan, which, in turn, means less environmental impact associated with disposal of the roofing itself.

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Practical Considerations for How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Climate

Climate-Specific Roofing Materials

Roofing constituents must be climate-specific to perform optimally and to age well. Hot, sunny regions benefit from lighter, more reflective roofing materials like metal or tile, which shed heat and keep buildings cooler. Conversely, in roof-challenged areas, where water and snow can accumulate, materials that are virtually watertight and dense enough to shed water quickly, like slate or high-quality asphalt shingles, perform better than timber, thatch, or lightweight materials.

Energy Efficiency and Insulation

The proper roof can have a huge effect on your home's energy efficiency. Dig deep into roofing materials. You want those with high insulation properties so your home can really coast through the hot summer and the cold winter. On the R-value scale, you want your roof to be at the top. It's hard to achieve that because most roofing materials cannot reach the R-values required to give you a good shield. Most roofs are R-value challenged, and that's definitely true for the shingles that cover most homes.

Durability and Maintenance Requirements

Determine the long-term durability and maintenance requirements of various roofing materials in your specific climate. Roofing materials, such as metal, may have a higher initial cost but require less upkeep and last longer in severe weather. Most metal roofs can survive wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour and won't corrode or crack. To get the best results, select a material that can withstand your region's most extreme conditions.

Local Building Codes and Regulations

Pay attention to the local laws and regulations that may affect your roofing decisions. Some places have requirements that pertain to fire resistance, wind uplift resistance, or even aesthetic considerations. It's a good idea to consult with the locals (not in the sense of "you and your folks," but in the sense of "people with first-hand knowledge of the area") or a professional roofing contractor who works in your area and knows the ins and outs of local statutes to be sure your chosen roofing system will meet necessary codes and not give you grief later on.

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What factors should I consider when choosing a roof for my climate?

Choosing a roof for your particular climate is no simple matter. The first step involves considering the normal range of weather your area experiences, including temperature extremes, types of precipitation, and frequency of all-out storms. After that, you move on to sun exposure. In roofs, as in people, UV radiation is the secret killer. Many roofs have a ten to twelve year lifespan under full shade but only last five or six years when exposed to intense sunlight. Roofs can help keep houses safe from storm winds. With such a vast array of roofing materials available today, making an appropriate selection for your climate is crucial.

Read more

How does rainfall impact the choice of roofing material?

How should roofs be constructed in a wet climate? Roofing materials should be selected based on the amount of rainfall. If a locale has high precipitation, the roof needs to shed water efficiently and also needs to be made of materials that can withstand a continual soaking and not be damaged by it. The best way to deal with water is to make a surface that the water can’t stick to, and the side of a roof should be covered with roofing material that the water can’t stick to. The top of a roof should be as steep as is reasonable or possible, and then the roof surface and the side of the roof should both be covered with materials that the water just sheds off of.

Read more

What roofing options are best for hot and sunny climates?

In hot sunny places, you want roofing that doesn't get hot. The secret is to use materials that reflect sunlight and radiate heat away. So-called "cool roofs" are one way to go; these roofs are designed to "stay cool" in the blazing sun and are available in a variety of materials. One of them is light-colored metal, which serves double duty by also reflecting sunlight in addition to being a highly emissive material. There are special coatings available for the kinds of shingles that might be more common in your area. Clay and concrete tiles are also excellent roofing choices in hot trying conditions. ... Another way to keep the roof cool is to ventilate the attic properly by installing a roof vent, a gable vent, or a vent in the eaves.

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How do cold climates affect roofing choices?

Roofing systems in very cold climates face some pretty special challenges. The most important of these is to select materials that confront three serious threats to their integrity: the freeze-thaw cycle, heavy snow, and ice dams. Where I live, a roof can expect to shed anywhere from 20 to 30 times its own volume in snow, so the first-floor carport doesn’t have anywhere near the 11-foot minimum to confront a ceiling in a cold climate. Roof pitch is crucial. A roof that is too flat is going to be trouble.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing a roof for your particular climate is no simple matter. The first step involves considering the normal range of weather your area experiences, including temperature extremes, types of precipitation, and frequency of all-out storms. After that, you move on to sun exposure. In roofs, as in people, UV radiation is the secret killer. Many roofs have a ten to twelve year lifespan under full shade but only last five or six years when exposed to intense sunlight. Roofs can help keep houses safe from storm winds. With such a vast array of roofing materials available today, making an appropriate selection for your climate is crucial.
How should roofs be constructed in a wet climate? Roofing materials should be selected based on the amount of rainfall. If a locale has high precipitation, the roof needs to shed water efficiently and also needs to be made of materials that can withstand a continual soaking and not be damaged by it. The best way to deal with water is to make a surface that the water can’t stick to, and the side of a roof should be covered with roofing material that the water can’t stick to. The top of a roof should be as steep as is reasonable or possible, and then the roof surface and the side of the roof should both be covered with materials that the water just sheds off of.
In hot sunny places, you want roofing that doesn't get hot. The secret is to use materials that reflect sunlight and radiate heat away. So-called "cool roofs" are one way to go; these roofs are designed to "stay cool" in the blazing sun and are available in a variety of materials. One of them is light-colored metal, which serves double duty by also reflecting sunlight in addition to being a highly emissive material. There are special coatings available for the kinds of shingles that might be more common in your area. Clay and concrete tiles are also excellent roofing choices in hot trying conditions. ... Another way to keep the roof cool is to ventilate the attic properly by installing a roof vent, a gable vent, or a vent in the eaves.
Roofing systems in very cold climates face some pretty special challenges. The most important of these is to select materials that confront three serious threats to their integrity: the freeze-thaw cycle, heavy snow, and ice dams. Where I live, a roof can expect to shed anywhere from 20 to 30 times its own volume in snow, so the first-floor carport doesn’t have anywhere near the 11-foot minimum to confront a ceiling in a cold climate. Roof pitch is crucial. A roof that is too flat is going to be trouble.
In areas prone to excessive wind, it is vital to select a roof that can take a licking and keep on ticking. You could do a lot worse than metal. Its strength, along with its interlocking panel system, gives it the edge over most other materials when it comes to wind resistance. High-quality asphalt shingles perform admirably when properly installed and when inflated to the wind resistance rating they've been given. When using concrete and clay tiles (the not-so-fun part of the installation is making sure they have enough of a slope to shed water and going to the tiles' not-so-fun-secured installation part), you can trust those tiles to resist wind as long as your slope is within the manufacturer's recommended angle.
The roofing materials can be affected by humidity, mainly because of moisture-related problems. In a humid environment, waterproofing roofing materials is an absolute must. <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-las-vegas/metal-roofing-las-vegas/" title="Metal roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="2720">Metal roofing</a> is a superb choice for humid regions as it resists the types of biological growth that cause problems with many other roofing materials and does not absorb moisture. Another good option is algae-resistant asphalt shingles. Although these shingles still absorb water, they are much less likely to support the growth of the algae and fungi that like to make a home in asphalt shingles. Proper ventilation in the attic is also a must in a humid environment. Without it, the underside of the roof can be a very humid space that will begin to support the growth of biological inhabitants as well as rot roofing components.
In areas prone to considerable temperature changes, it is vital to select roofing materials that can safely handle the kind of expansion and contraction these conditions induce. Metal roofs are well suited to this very task. While they are largely implemented in commercial applications, those on metal roofs tend to enjoy a good level of protection from the kinds of temperature extremes that can sometimes yield a poor roof. And they are protected not just in the winter months when snow, ice, and the kinds of freezing and thawing that can happen in the cold weather make a roofing system vulnerable, but also over the course of a hot summer when the kinds of temperature rises that can provoke roofing disasters also occur.
In regions highly susceptible to wildfires, selecting fire-resistant roofing materials is of utmost importance. For communities that are at high risk of fire, the use of Class A fire-rated materials—which afford the highest level of fire protection—is recommended, according to the Firewise Design Criteria established by the U.S. Forest Service. Metal roofing—along with concrete and clay tiles, and asphalt shingles that have been specially treated for fire resistance—are good choices. These materials are noncombustible or very slow to burn and, in laboratory tests, have demonstrated that they can withstand flame, heat, and the intense energy from a fire and resist spreading.
Coastal zones pose a distinct set of problems because of the saline-laden air that can corrode and degrade roofing materials. Coastal residents need to select their roofing components carefully to avoid the deleterious effects of salt exposure. They have several excellent options. For instance, high-quality <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://lasvegasroofing.net/roofing-north-las-vegas/metal-roofing-north-las-vegas/" title="metal roofing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3746">metal roofing</a> with the right coatings—such as aluminum and stainless steel—performs well in the corrosive conditions found in coastal environments. Concrete and clay tiles are also superb choices because they are impervious to the salt in the air. Synthetic slate or shake roofing can also provide an incredibly durable alternative to traditional roofing materials in coastal applications. Whichever roofing material is selected, regular maintenance with a low-pressure wash will go a long way toward ensuring roof longevity.
No matter the climate, energy efficiency is an important part of the roofing selection process. In hot regions, "cool" roofing materials that reflect solar radiation and emit absorbed heat can sharply decrease the need for air conditioning. Light-colored or specially coated roofing materials are often preferred in these areas. Conversely, roofs in cold climates have a very good chance of being "efficient" if they insulate well. And, if the roofing system and building are designed with the right kind of insulation and ventilation, they've got even better odds of maintaining energy efficiency.

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