Choosing the right roofing material for your home involves balancing protection, longevity, and value. The decision becomes even more crucial for Colorado homeowners — an area highly prone to hailstorms. Hail can cause significant damage to a roof, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Popular roofing materials in Colorado include asphalt shingles, metal roofing and synthetic shingles. Each offers advantages for hail protection and home value but has its own trade-offs. Here’s a comparison gathered from analysis done by ThisOldHouse.com and Ecosmartinc.com to serve as a guide. It’s essential to consult with your homeowners insurance agent for policy coverage and the roofing contractor for specific details.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material due to their affordability and ease of installation. According to ThisOldHouse.com’s analysis, an asphalt shingle roof typically costs between $7,225 and $14,025 for a 1,700-square-foot roof, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious homeowners.
However, you’ll need architectural asphalt shingles with a Class 4 rating to get the highest level of damage protection from hail impact, reports ThisOldHouse.com. This is the highest rating given based on impact tests defined by Underwriters Laboratory 2218 (UL 2218) standard. Architectural asphalt shingles are thicker and more durable than standard asphalt shingles. They cost 50-100% more but can save money on roof replacements and potential discounts on insurance premiums.
Asphalt shingles generally provide a decent return on investment in terms of resale value. Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report shows that an asphalt shingle roof replacement recoups about 61.1% of its cost. Asphalt shingles are also favored in many neighborhoods where they are the norm, maintaining aesthetic harmony.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are increasingly popular for their durability and low maintenance. The upfront cost is higher, ranging from $15,000 to $24,500 for the typical 1,700-square-foot roof, according to ThisOldHouse.com. Despite this, their long lifespan — often 50 years or more — means they can offer better long-term value than asphalt shingles.
Most thicker gauges of metal roofing systems are highly resistant to hail damage. Some Colorado homeowners worry about denting, especially with larger hailstones. Though most dents are purely cosmetic and do not compromise the roof’s structural integrity, denting may detract from the aesthetic appeal.
Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report shows that the resale value of metal roofs is slightly lower than that of asphalt shingles, with metal roofs recouping about 48.9% of their cost. However, their energy efficiency and longevity might offset this lower return, which can appeal to environmentally conscious buyers or those seeking long-term savings on energy bills.
Synthetic Shingles
Synthetic shingles, made from recycled materials like PVC, rubber, or a combination of both, are a sustainable alternative offering the look of wood, slate, or other natural materials, according to ecosmartinc.com. These shingles are generally priced higher than asphalt but lower than high-end metal or natural slate options. Their lightweight nature also reduces the need for additional structural support, saving installation costs.
Synthetic shingles also carry a Class 4 impact rating, making them resistant to hail. Synthetic shingles offer a blend of durability, aesthetics, and sustainability, which can enhance a home’s value, though they were not evaluated in Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report. Their long lifespan and minimal maintenance appeal to potential buyers, especially those interested in eco-friendly options.
Consult your insurance policy first
Before selecting a new roofing material, consult your homeowner’s insurance policy and agent for details about coverage. It’s critical that your insurer recognizes your roof manufacturer.
You may be asked to sign a hail damage waiver for cosmetic damage, particularly to a metal roof, which can be dented during hailstorms. According to sheffieldmetals.com, several factors to consider include roof value, the likelihood of hail damage, the thickness of the metal, and roof exposure, such as proximity to trees.
With three good options available, your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs and priorities, whether upfront cost, longevity, or protection against the elements.
Read the complete articles at:
- thisoldhouse.com/roofing/reviews/shingles-vs-metal-roof-cost
- thisoldhouse.com/roofing/reviews/impact-resistant-roof
- sheffieldmetals.com/learning-center/metal-roofing-and-hail
- ecosmartinc.com/synthetic-roof-shingles
Tom Kalinski is the broker/owner of RE/MAX of Boulder, the local residential real estate company he established in 1977. He was inducted into Boulder County’s Business Hall of Fame in 2016 and has a 40-year background in commercial and residential real estate. For questions, e-mail Tom at tomkalinski33@gmail.com, call 303.441.5620 or visit boulderco.com.
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