9 Tips for Hiring a Garage Builder

9 Tips for Hiring a Garage Builder

How to Hire a Good Garage Builder

Hiring a skilled and trustworthy garage builder is essential to the success of your construction project.

While there may be some minor setbacks during the building process, with the right garage builder, these issues can be minimized. Here are some essential tips to help you choose the right builder for your garage project:

Garage Building

1. Research Local Garage Building Companies

Before selecting a garage builder, be sure you have researched all potential builders in your local area thoroughly.

This includes speaking with family members, friends, and staff at local home improvement centers and lumberyards. Word of mouth is a great way to get firsthand experiences and recommendations from people who have previously hired garage builders for their own project(s). Not only that, but building supply industry professionals work with builders and contractors every day. With this first hand knowledge, they will be able to recommend a good builder for your project.

Another way to ensure you hire a good company is by checking out their Google, Facebook, and Yelp reviews, as well as their testimonials. Reading these will give you a pretty good idea of how the custom garage installation process went for each client that left a review.

Hiring a reputable and qualified builder will help take the headache out of the garage building process!

2. Hire Both Licensed & Insured Garage Builders

Next, be sure that the garage building company you end up hiring is both licensed and insured.

You’ll want to request copies of their insurance documents and any licenses they hold. Likewise, you should also do this for subcontractors.

Hiring a licensed and insured contractor for the project gives you leverage should any problems arise. The garage builder will be obligated to resolve any issues during construction to prevent losing their business license.

3. Ask for a Detailed Estimate

Never accept any verbal estimates or changes to the contract! You should always get everything into writing – ask for a detailed estimate for the garage building project. The estimate should include all details of materials, labor fees, dimensions/size of garage, and more. For materials more specifically, the estimate should include brand names, colors, sizes, and styles for your shingles, doors, garage doors, flooring, and more.

If there are any changes to the contract, make sure to get it all in writing for a smooth, worry-free process.

4. Ask for a Timeline

When selecting your garage builder, you should always ask for a construction timeline. This timeline should detail a specific starting and end date of the project All deadlines should be clearly outlined in writing.

Also, if your garage must be completed by a specific date, make sure that you have communicated that with your garage builder. On average, it will take around 6-8 weeks to build your garage.

Read More: 7 Factors to Consider for Building a Custom Garage

Blue Custom Garage by ACS Roofing

5. Add a Motivational Clause in the Contract

Once you’ve agreed upon a completion date, you and your garage contractor should include a motivational clause in the contract.

For example, you can state: “If the garage construction is not completed by the agreed-upon date, $200 per day will be deducted from the contract price for each day the job remains incomplete after that date.”

6. Be Specific About Your Needs

When working with your garage builder, make sure that you communicate your ideas and thoughts clearly. You know what you want, so be prepared to discuss your needs and wants with your contractor.

Note that changing your mind multiple times after construction begins can cause delays and add additional expenses to the final cost of the project.

7. Expect Possible Delays or Unexpected Problems

While choosing a reputable garage building company will help to reduce issues during the building process, you should still expect possible delays or unexpected issues to pop up. For example, delays, employees quitting, late delivery of materials, or bad weather could all contribute to slight delays in the project.

To accommodate, make sure that your builder allows additional time for the project should any of these unexpected problems occur. Try to be flexible and cooperative with your contractor as well to make things easier on their side. Assuming everything goes as planned, however, your garage may even be finished ahead of schedule!

8. Don’t Pay Too Much Upfront

It’s common to pay a portion or a percentage of the total cost of the project upfront. This is to cover the cost of the materials.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s always a good idea to not pay the cost in full until after the project has been complete. Before the project begins, make sure you understand what your garage builder expects with regards to cost and that you’ve asked all your questions about pricing.

9. Specify Clean-Up Responsibility

Lastly, you should make sure that the contract clearly states that the contractor is responsible for cleaning up the site following the construction. This helps to ensure your safety from materials or tools that may still be left lying around. It also ensures that you aren’t left with the task of having to clean up after the building team.

Building a garage requires a lot of research into which company is going to be the best fit. Ultimately, making sure that your company is willing to work with you is going to make the process a lot smoother!

Custom Garages in the Fox Valley

Contact ACS Roofing

Looking for custom garages in Appleton? If you need to a hire an affordable roofing contractor for your next garage building project, contact ACS Roofing today!

Besides custom garages in the Fox Valley and Appleton, we specialize in asphalt, metal, and rubber roofs for residential and commercial properties. We also handle windows and siding projects.

Get started with our garage builders by contacting us here or giving us a call directly at (920) 216-2243.

What Size of Garage Do I Need?

What Size of Garage Do I Need?

Building the Right Garage Size

If you’re looking to a hire a garage builder, one of the first considerations to building a garage is knowing what size of garage you will need.

There’s a few factors to keep in mind, such as number of vehicles, the size of your vehicles, other types of vehicles or equipment you plan to store, and also what additional storage space you’re planning for your custom garage.

Let’s discuss everything you need to know about your ideal size of garage!

Custom Green Garage

Determining the Right Size of Garage Based on Vehicle Size

At ACS Roofing, we are the custom garage building experts! We can build garages of any style and size, (provided your planned garage is a minimum square footage of 200ft.)

Let’s go over dimensions for various car lengths:

Full-Size Sedan

Usually, a full-size sedan measures around 16 to 17 ft. long, 6 to 7 ft. wide, and 5 to 6 ft. high. To store a parked, full-size sedan in your custom garage, your space will need to be approximately 20 ft. long, 10 ft. wide, and 8 ft. tall.

A 20′ L x 10′ W x 8′ H garage will allow for plenty of space for opening the car doors, storing items and equipment along the side of your garage, and maneuvering around the interior of the garage and vehicle without any difficulty.

Standard SUV

Your standard SUV will measure between 16 and 18 ft. long, and about 6 to 7 ft. in both width and height. To accommodate your SUV, your garage’s space will need to be approximately 22 ft. long, 10 ft. wide, and 8 ft. tall.

With a garage at least this size, you’ll have plenty of space for opening the SUV’s car doors, maneuvering around the vehicle, and accessing its back hatch.

Full-Size SUV

If you have a full-size SUV, consider it’s a bit larger even than a standard SUV, measuring approximately 18 to 20 ft. in length, 7 to 8 ft. in width, and 6 to 7 ft. in height.

To ensure you have plenty of space for your full-size SUV, you’ll need to plan a garage design that is at least 24 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, and 8 ft. tall. With this size, you’ll have a good amount of space for opening your SUV’s doors and walking around the vehicle.

Full-Size Pickups

Lastly, if you have a pickup truck, it’s going to measure around 20 to 24 ft. long, 7 to 8 ft. wide, and 6 to 7 ft. high. To accommodate, your garage’s space should at least measure 26 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, and 8 ft. tall to allow for plenty of space surrounding the vehicle or for additional storage of smaller items.

Remember to discuss vehicle sizing with your custom garage builders and they should be able to provide recommendations for everything you’ll need to know about the garage installation process, or if you are unsure of what dimensions you’ll need for your garage.

White Custom Garage by ACS Roofing

Other Considerations to Keep in Mind for Garage Size

The above dimensions are just rough estimates, so make sure you also factor in the specific make and model of your vehicle when planning your garage size.

In addition, remember to consider:

  • Other Vehicles: Sizes of any vehicles you plan to store in the future
  • Other items: Think about everything else you plan to store in your garage, such as bicycles, motorcycles, boats, and campers, etc.
  • Garage Type: Are you interested in a detached single car garage, detached two-door with a studio, or a detached three-door garage?
  • Hobby Areas: If you need your garage for a workshop or hobbies, you may need to add extra space for tools, workbenches, and equipment.

Here are 7 factors to consider for building a custom garage.

Common Garage Widths & Depths

A custom garage is often built in widths of 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 ft. For garage depth, your garage can range from 20 to 24 ft. or more. When accommodating for larger vehicles, multiple vehicles, or a boat/RV/camper, etc., a wider garage is necessary to ensure you can open your car doors fully.

At our roofing company, we can provide custom garages of any size and style!

Custom White Garage

Contact Our Local Custom Garage Contractors!

When it comes to custom garage designs, look no further than ACS Roofing! We have been serving customers in the Fox Valley area since 2003, and we specialize in roofing installations and custom garages in Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Oshkosh, and the greater Fox Cities.

If you’re uncertain about the size of garage you’ll need for your property, contact our team today. We can assess your needs, discuss options available to you, and provide a detailed custom garage plan. We also do the footwork to ensure your new custom garage meets all local building codes and regulations.

Ready to discuss your project? Get a FREE quote from ACS Roofing or call us at (920) 216-2243!

Everything You Need to Know About the Custom Garage Installation Process

Everything You Need to Know About the Custom Garage Installation Process

Is it time to invest in a brand new garage?

A custom garage installation can be a great way to add value to your property! Additionally, it’s also great to invest in a new garage because you can increase your storage and parking options.

However, the process of building a custom garage can be overwhelming for many homeowners. To help, in this article, we will provide an in-depth guide to the custom garage installation process. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to prepare for a custom garage installation.

Custom Garage Projects - Attached Garage

Knowing the Purpose for Your Garage

Before you begin the custom garage installation process, it is important to know the purpose for your garage.

For example, do you want a garage for storage or hobby purposes? Or do you need a large space for parking your car, truck, motorcycle, or boat? Maybe you plan to have an upstairs area to host parties and hang out with friends.

Knowing the purpose for your garage will help you determine the size, layout, and features you will need. If you are planning to use your garage for storage, you may want to include built-in shelving or storage units. If you need a garage for simply parking, you’ll include a garage door opener, a concrete floor, and plenty of adequate ventilation.

 

Choosing a Reliable Garage Building Company

When it comes to building a custom garage, it is important to work with experienced garage builders.

A professional garage builder or contractor can help you navigate the custom garage installation process, from obtaining necessary permits to selecting the best materials for your garage. You may want to ask for recommendations from friends and family or do research online to find reputable garage builders and contractors in your area.

Read more here about our professional custom garage installation services, or contact our team today! Our roofing company has years of industry experience working with commercial roofs, residential roofs, and custom garages alike.

Read More: 9 Tips for Hiring a Garage Builder

Metal Roofing Services

Free Estimates

Garage builders and contractors typically offer free estimates, which can be helpful in understanding the costs associated with building a custom garage.

During the free estimate process, a garage builder will visit your property and assess the site, taking into account the size of the garage you need/want, any site preparation that may be required, and any unique features you may want to include in your garage.

 

Cost of Building a Garage

The cost of building a custom garage can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the garage, the materials used, and the features included. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of building a garage is $23,900, with most homeowners spending between $16,840 and $34,646.

However, the cost of a custom garage can vary greatly depending on your specific needs and location. For example, materials are a significant cost factor when building a custom garage. The most common materials used for custom garages are wood, steel, and vinyl.

  • Wood: A traditional and common material used for garages, but it requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting and warping.
  • Steel: Durable and low-maintenance option, but it is more expensive than wood.
  • Vinyl: More recent addition to the garage materials market, but it is growing in popularity due to its low-maintenance and durability.

Here are some materials to keep in mind for garage doors.

Other factors that can affect the cost of building a custom garage include the complexity of the project, the location of the garage, and any additional features or upgrades, such as insulation or a custom door. It is important to get a detailed estimate from a garage builder or contractor before beginning the project to ensure that the cost aligns with your budget. Here also are 7 factors to consider when building your garage.

 

Garage Zoning Laws

Before you begin building your custom garage, it is important to check local zoning laws to make sure you are allowed to build a garage on your property. Zoning laws vary by location, so it is important to check with your local government to make sure you are in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Some zoning laws may require you to obtain a building permit before you begin construction on your garage.

Custom Garage Projects

Storage

Storage is an important consideration when building a custom garage. Whether you need to store tools, gardening equipment, sporting goods, or hobby items, you’ll want to make sure your custom garage has plenty of storage space. There are many different storage options available for garages, including:

  • Built-in shelving
  • Overhead storage
  • Cabinets

Talk with your custom garage contractors about customizing your storage options to fit your specific needs. Here are some garage storage ideas to try.

 

Ventilation

Next, let’s discuss ventilation.

Proper ventilation is important in any garage, especially if you plan to use it for storage or parking. Adequate ventilation can help prevent moisture buildup, which can cause damage to your vehicles or stored items.

There are many different ventilation options available for custom garages. These include:

  • Windows
  • Vents
  • Fans

Your garage builder or contractor can help you determine the best ventilation options for your specific needs.

 

Different Garage Types

You likely have nailed down the type of custom garage you want. But if not, there are a few options you can choose from. Your choice of custom garage will likely be determined by your needs, preferences, and budget.

Some popular types of custom garages include:

 

  • Attached garages. Attached to your home and can be convenient for accessing your home from your garage.
  • Detached garages. Separate from your home and can provide more privacy and storage space.
  • Multi-car garages. Are larger garages that can accommodate multiple vehicles.
Appleton Roofing

The Custom Garage Installation Process: In Conclusion

We hope this article gave you a bit deeper insight on the custom garage installation process.

At ACS Roofing, we are an expert team of custom garage builders with years of industry experience. In addition, we started our company in 2003, and have since served many customers in the Appleton and greater Fox Valley area.

If you’re ready to get started with your custom garage installation, please contact our team here, and one of our friendly team members will be happy to help or answer any questions you may have. Contact ACS Roofing today!

7 Factors to Consider for Building a Custom Garage

7 Factors to Consider for Building a Custom Garage

Building a Custom Garage

Is it finally time to start building that dream custom garage?

A custom garage acts as an extension of your living space. It’s a place where you can indulge in hobbies, work on projects, make memories, and keep valuable items. A custom design allows you to build something that truly reflects your vision for your property.

If you’re interested in building a custom garage in Appleton or the greater Fox Valley area, Affordable Contracting Services is here to assist you in making your dreams a reality!

Ready to get started? Here are 7 important factors to consider:

Custom Garage Projects

 

1. Building Permits

Prior to building your custom garage, you’ll want to ensure you know whether a building permit is required. The specific requirements do vary from location to location. It is important to check with your town’s Building Department for information on what is needed during the construction process.

To ensure a smooth building experience, your roofing contractors often work with an engineering team that can handle all permit-related tasks for you. If you’re interested in these services, please let us know and we’ll be happy to assist in arranging them for you.

 

2. Type of Garage

The neat thing about custom garages is that there are endless options!

Think about the type of custom garage that will best suit your needs. Are you interested in an attached, detached, or connected-by-walkway garage?

Before contacting Affordable Contracting Service, take some time to visualize the perfect location on your property for the garage. After all, when you’re spending that kind of money, you’ll want to ensure you design the garage of your dreams. Of course, our roofing contractors are here to help you if you have questions! Contact us here for more information.

Read More: 9 Tips for Hiring Garage Builder

Custom Garage Projects - Attached Garage

 

3. Size & Shape

Once you’ve determined the type of garage you want, now you should consider how large it should be, along with its overall shape.

Do you need extra space? How about an area for your hobbies or office? Will you need a single or multi-car garage?

You may even need or want a loft or a second story for your garage. There are plenty of options to choose from!

The size and shape of your custom garage play a crucial role in determining its design and functionality. Decide whether you prefer a traditional, large rectangular shape or a smaller, square layout. You should also consider the number of bays you’ll need, and how many cars, motorcycles, boats, grills, lawnmowers, etc. will need to fit. If you’re unsure, consider checking with your garage builders about the size of garage you need.

 

4. Doors and Windows

Now let’s talk doors and windows!

While planning out your custom garage, consider the daily usage of the building and incorporate elements that increase convenience. This could include a side door for each section of the garage or large windows for natural light.

Looking for a way to brighten up the interior of the garage? A shed dormer or transom windows can add more light. Also, adding door lights and window inserts on garage doors will enhance the appearance and also improve functionality.

To ensure year-round comfort, consider insulated doors and windows to keep the garage warm in winter and cool in summer.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About the Custom Garage Installation Process

Custom Garage Project

 

5. Siding, Roof, & Window Frame Colors

One of the best parts about building a garage is getting to choose the colors for the siding, roof shingles or tiles, and the window frame colors. Personalize the appearance of your new custom garage to complement or contrast with your home!

If you’re unsure of what colors or roofing materials to choose, our contractors can help! We offer the flexibility to customize the interior and exterior of your custom garage to your specific preferences.

 

6. Utility & Electrical Connections

When building your custom garage, of course you’ll have electrical connections, however, you’ll also need to consider whether you’ll need or want utility hookups moving forward.

For example, you may want to install plumbing in your garage if you plan on having a sink. Especially if your garage will double as a hobby room, bar, or art studio, you’ll want to consider if there are any other utilities needed in the future.

 

7. Multi-Purpose Features

Lastly, as you plan out your custom garage, you’ll need to think about any additional features that will either add more practicality or visual appeal to your garage.

You can choose from:

  • Room partitions for different areas or activities
  • Multiple doorways for easy access
  • Storage options like lofts or second floors
  • Decorative cupolas to add visual interest
  • Built-in bartops and countertops
  • Workbenches or shelving to increase functionality

 

At our roofing company, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life! If you have any other ideas or custom requests, don’t hesitate to let us know, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them!

6 Tips for Picking the Right Roofing Contractor

6 Tips for Picking the Right Roofing Contractor

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

Is your roof aging? If you’ve found this article, it’s likely that you are currently choosing a roofing contractor to handle your project. Easily one of the biggest challenges homeowners face when getting a new roof is starting out with choosing the right roofing contractor.

A new roof is a pretty significant investment. As a result, it’s important to look for a few key signs that great roofing contractors have in common.

Here are 6 tips for picking the right roofing contractor:

1. Get References

We always recommend asking a friend or colleague to share their experience with a roofing company. Word-of-mouth is an excellent, if not the most honest and thorough way of gaining the details of how their roofing project went – this can include whether the roofers stayed within budget, what the cleanup plan entailed, whether there were any project delays, how the roofers handled questions and concerns, etc.

Most importantly, ask your friend or family member how satisfied they were with the project.

Asphalt Roof - Aerial View

2. Read the Company’s Reviews

Similarly, we recommend you read the roofing company’s reviews to get an overall impression of how they do business. Google, Facebook, and Yelp reviews reveal the reputation, punctuality, and expertise of the roofers who have worked on other people’s roof replacement projects.

A good way to identify the reliability and professionalism of a roofing contractor is by the recency and frequency of their good reviews. Roofing businesses that have a lot of negative reviews or that leave negative reviews unanswered are a cause for concern. A good roofing company will not only have great reviews, but will always respond with courtesy, professionalism, and a willingness to resolve a problem when it arises.

3. Understand the Difference Between Independent Contractors and Roofing Companies

As a homeowner, you likely have found two different types of contractors:

Independent contractors and roofing companies.

In a nutshell, both an independent contractor and a roofing company can get a job done, however, one may be a better choice than the other depending on the size and involvement of your project.

  • An independent contractor is best for whenever you need a quick, simple repair done. They may be an advantage for you if you need or want only one point of contact. However, keep in mind that having only one point of contact means that the project could take longer since only one person at a time is on the job. Lastly, if you have warranty issues at any time, an independent contractor may be difficult to track down.
  • Roofing companies are a better choice if you need a large roofing project done. Hire a roofing company if you need a brand-new roof installation, full replacement, or you have major storm damage to your roof. A roofing company has a team of skilled professionals who can provide a faster turnaround time, plus a warranty for your peace of mind. With a roofing company, however, you may talk with different team members at different stages of the project.

Here is more information on whether you should repair or replace your roof.

4. Ask About Licenses and Insurance

Most reputable roofing companies will be able to provide a copy of licenses and insurance upon your request. Knowing that part of the cost of the roof and the service provided to you is under the protection of security coverage should give you peace of mind.

Hiring any contractor or company without proper documentation can put you both at risk. As a result, many professionals recommend asking about specific manufacturer affiliations.

Asphalt Roof in Winter

5. Compare Warranties

Make sure you compare warranties and know the length of the warranty. Only a small number of contractors will be able to offer manufacturer warranties that include work coverage.

If at any time there is an improper roof install, it may take months or years for the damage to become apparent. Much of the time, your insurance will not cover it.

While the length of a warranty is not necessarily an essential factor, you should definitely opt for a contractor with a long-term experience that will stand behind the quality of their work.

6. Make Sure That There is a Written Quote

Always make sure that your roofing project has a clear, written quote so that you can plan financially and avoid hidden costs that push the project out of budget. Items that should be present on the written quote include a breakdown of the cost of the materials, payment agreement, project timeline, and insurance coverage.

Make sure that the timeline of the project is clear, so that if delays occur for any reason, that at least setting expectations for a timeframe will keep the project running smoothly. No matter what stage of the project, you should be able to refer to your written quote whenever a problem arises. This will help keep you and your roofing contractor on the same page. Here is more information about everything that should be in a roofing estimate.

Contact Affordable Contracting

Clear communication is very important when it comes to picking the right roofing contractor for your home and project. Any credible contractor, like Affordable Contracting, will answer your questions and concerns with the utmost professionalism.

Our team focuses on building a relationship with each of our clients throughout Appleton and the Fox Valley. We have been in the business since 2003, have a skilled, professional team of certified contractors, and are a GAF Factory-Certified Contractor for your peace of mind. Contact our roofing contractors today at (920) 216-2243 for a quote on your roofing project!

What Is The Best Roofing Material For Inclement Weather?

What Is The Best Roofing Material For Inclement Weather?

Do you live in a four-season area or an area with inclement and harsh weather? Bad weather can really do some serious damage to your roof, and nobody likes having to shell out more money than they have to on something like a roof! If you’re a person who lives in a location that has as harsh of weather as, say, Wisconsin, then you may be asking yourself the following questions. What is the best roofing material for inclement weather?

In this article, we’re going to talk about just that. Whether you’re updating your roof, need a replacement roof, or a just curious, we’ve got you covered on what the best roofing materials are for inclement weather. So grab your favorite refreshment and hang out while we discuss what roofing materials are best for inclement weather.

What Is Inclement Weather?

If you know, you know. But if you don’t know, inclement weather is when the weather becomes too severe and harsh, especially when it’s too cold or wet for people to be in.

This type of weather often occurs during North America’s winter season, and can often result in large amounts of snow, rain, or hail. Inclement weather can cause serious damage to roofs. If you live in this type of area and you want a roof that will last you a long time, you will want one of the following types of roofs!

What Do You Need To Watch Out For?

Inclement weather can be quite nasty, but there are a handful of obstacles that you need to be aware of when dealing with it.

Ice Build Up

Something you may not have considered during your roof improvement project is how to deal with ice dams. Ice dams are common during winter times, and occur when ice builds up on a roof. This ice then creates a wall that warmed water cannot pass over when other snow melts. The problem can exacerbate itself and the pool of water can become large and cause huge problems for you.

These can be avoided by making sure that your gutters are clean of any debris, using a roof rake to remove snow from the top of your home, and removing ice formation from your roof and/or gutters. You, or your local roofing expert, should also ensure that your attic insulation has at least an R-value of 30 and that your ridge & soffit vents are working properly so heat doesn’t rise through the sheathing and melt snow faster.

Water Damage

Water damage is something that you will need to keep in mind when looking to upgrade your roofing material in preparation for inclement weather conditions. If you’re experiencing large amounts of ice build-up, the backflow of water can seep through the sheathing and enter your home. Once the water is in your home, it will continuously spread throughout your home. This is why it’s important to use roofing materials that have great water-resistant characteristics.

Weight

Weight is another important factor to consider when looking to upgrade the materials that your roof is made out of. You will want your roof to be built strong enough to withstand the pressure that snow, ice, and water can put on it. For instance, a cubic foot of light & fluffy snow will weigh about 5.2 pounds, a cubic foot of compact snow can weigh 20 pounds or more, and a cubic foot of water weighs 62.4 pounds.

That’s a lot of weight! This statistic should reinforce the fact that you will either need to get an incredibly strong roof, constantly rake your roof after each snowfall, or do both to reduce the chances of ice building up on your roof!

Types Of Roofing Material That Is Best For Inclement Weather

There are many different types of roofing materials out there. However, only some of the choices are hardy enough to withstand a terrible winter, let alone decades’ worth of terrible winters. So without going through every single type of roof out there, some of which might fair well in different weather conditions, we’re only going to be talking about those that stand out in inclement weather.

Slate Roofing

Slate is a fantastic roofing material for those looking to keep their home, themselves, and their family safe during sustained inclement weather. When slate roofing is properly installed, slate roofing can withstand winds that exceed 160 mph and last for more than 100 years!

There are two common cons that are associated with slate roofing. The first is that they are expensive when compared to other materials. The second is that the slate is very heavy, which will require a very experienced roofer to install your new slate roof.

Asphalt Roofing

This is one of the most common roofs around, and it’s because it’s inexpensive and easy to install. It’s also a good roof to have as it’ll do well in most climates, regardless of where you are around the world, as the typical asphalt roof can last anywhere between 25-30 years. If you’d like to learn more about what asphalt roofing is, we have a perfect article for you that explains what asphalt roofing is! However, this inexpensive roofing material does have some drawbacks.

The first drawback is that these shingles are prone to becoming worn and damaged over a shorter period of time than some of the other solutions we have on this list. Asphalt roofing shingles are susceptible to blowing away during high winds and can even crack during cold weather. While this is one of the least expensive options you can get for a roof, if you live in an area that has inclement weather, it might be wise of you to spend a little more upfront on stronger roofing material as asphalt roofing can leave you with a bigger repair bill that you might have to pay in the future.

Synthetic Roofing

Synthetic shingles are a great roofing material for those who live in areas that have inclement weather. They are about twice as expensive as their close relative, the asphalt shingle, but have more than twice the durability. They’re considered a class 4 shingle, the highest of shingle classes, which means that it will take quite a bit for them to break apart.

The only downside to synthetic roofing is that they’re relatively new and don’t have much history. With that said, they still might be a worthwhile investment over asphalt roofing if you have the budget to spare.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs might be one of the best performing and most cost-effective roofing materials for those living in areas that experience high amounts of inclement weather. Metal roofs are lightweight when compared to other styles of roof with the same durability, like slate roofs. They also have a smooth surface which is conducive for snow to slide right off of them, which will help negate any buildup of ice dams. You can also install snow guards and heating cables to reduce snow buildup even more.

However, without proper insulation, metal roofs can significantly increase your heating bill as they’re great at transferring heat and cold. If you do decide to install a metal roof onto your home, prepare to spend more on insulating your roof.

Final Thoughts On What Is The Best Roofing Material For Inclement Weather?

Regardless of what roofing material you choose, make sure that you are aware of the pros and cons of your choice so you can prepare yourself for any future events that can come. When you do call a roofing company, like Affordable Contracting Services, make sure you know which questions to ask before hiring a roofing contractor.

If you’re building a new roof isn’t in your future, and you just want to learn how to survive brutal winters with less trouble, then check out our article on the top four roofing tips for Wisconsin weather. If you would like to have your roof evaluated to see if upgrading your roofing material is right for you, then give us a call! Contact us at (920) 216-2243, check out our roofing services page, or visit our website at acsroofingsiding.com to learn more.

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