One would be remiss to not give thought to their home’s roofing. This feature can make a huge difference both in protecting the home and elevating its external appearance.
Ranch homes in George West, Three West, and South Texas come in all sorts of styles — the challenge is choosing the right roofing material that matches your preference. Below are some of the best materials you can opt for based on your area’s climate, budget, and your home’s aesthetic.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle roofs are a popular choice as there are numerous types distinguished by durability, appearance, and cost. Some are significantly thick and beautifully textured, mimicking wood or slate roofs for a fraction of the price. For ranch homes that are not particular to a certain style, asphalt shingles provide the best value for your money and can last for at least 20 years.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Beautiful and durable, tile roofing works really well in hot climates. It’s immune to rot and insect infestation, heavily resistant to most weather conditions, and energy efficient. Make sure to check if your home’s structure can support this roofing as it is significantly heavy and is only suitable for roofs with a certain slope. This is one of your more expensive roofing options, but if installed and cared for properly, it can last for over 100 years.
Slate
Slate roofing is highly regarded for its classic elegance and durability. As a naturally occurring stone, slate is quite heavy, but its weight and density makes it highly resistant to all kinds of weather. This roofing material is also absolutely fire-proof. Slate roofs are known to last for 75 years – in reality, they often last for much longer – and require very little maintenance.
To achieve the same sleek look without the substantial expense, you can opt for slate alternatives made from plastic composites or fiber cement.
Wood Shingles
A wood shingle roof brings a warm and natural elegance to the exterior of any home. Lightweight and easy to install, wood shingles can last up to 30 years. However, this material is a lot more vulnerable to the elements: it must be treated with a fire retardant for areas prone to fires, and regular attention is required to prevent decay and moss growth from rain or moisture.
Metal
Having a metal roof will certainly give your home a unique look while providing solid protection against fire, rot, and insects for up to 75 years. Some of its disadvantages include noise during rain or hail and susceptibility to dents. For Texas’ warm climate, metal roofing will need to be properly insulated as it can retain a lot of heat.
At the end of the day, the best choice depends on your priorities. Asphalt shingles may be the most versatile option, but if you’re looking to increase your ranch home’s value, opting for more premium materials may be a wiser choice.
We at Desert Flower Realty would be happy to give more advice on Texas ranch living and architecture. For further information, call 361.449.2051 or email desertflowerrealty(at)desertflowerrealty(dotted)com for expert assistance.
