If you're a homeowner, you probably don't think much about your roof - as long as it's protecting you from the elements. But there's a lot more to residential roofing than meets the eye. Here are seven surprising things about residential roofs that you may not realize.

1. The Most Popular Materials

You might assume residential roofs are usually covered in boring black asphalt shingles. However, they come in different materials, like metal, clay, concrete, and even wood. One of the most common for homes is cedar shake roofing. This natural material provides visual appeal while protecting against rain, snow, heat, and more. Cedar shake roofing has remained a tried-and-true option for good reason.

2. The Lifespan Depends on the Material

Not all roofs will last the same length of time. How long your current roof will last greatly depends on what it's made of. While our team notes that the average asphalt shingle roof may last 20 years, other materials vary widely. According to Bob Vila, a well-maintained roof can last up to 50 years or longer. In particular, cedar shake roofing can stand the test of time for 30 to 50 years when properly cared for, according to This Old House. The lifespan also comes down to factors like climate conditions and proper installation.

3. The Design Impacts Energy Efficiency

You might not realize your roof impacts energy efficiency and temperature control. Certain styles, materials, colors, and more contribute to heat absorption or reflection. Proper attic insulation also helps modulate indoor temperatures. When shopping for a replacement, don't forget to consider energy-saving options like cool roof paints or reflective coatings in hot climates or efficient insulated attics for colder ones. The right design makes a huge difference in energy bills.

4. Installation Is Trickier Than Expected

Replacing or installing a new roof is a massive, tricky project - even just for a small home. It involves carefully removing the old roof, and then precisely laying each new component like underlayment, ice barriers, shingles, and more. Every step depends on the factors unique to your roof size, pitch, layout, climate, and selected materials. Rather than tackling it as a DIY weekend project, hire experienced roofing professionals and crews. They make the complicated process look easy.

5. Maintenance Is Crucial for Longevity

Just like your home's siding, roofing requires regular upkeep to achieve maximum longevity. For example, trimmed trees prevent debris, rain gutters keep water flowing away, and inspections identify minor repairs before they become expensive issues. Small maintenance steps extend your roof's lifespan dramatically. They also prevent premature replacements. Be sure to check out manufacturer guidelines for recommended care and maintenance of cedar shake roofing or your specific material. Catching problems early pays off.

6. Repair Costs Add Up Quickly

While it's easy to ignore your roof when it is reliable, remember it will inevitably need repairs. When that day comes, the project can add up quickly. The specific costs depend on roof size, materials, access, tear-off services, and other needs. With such a huge potential expense, stay on top of regular maintenance and start saving up for potential repairs. Requesting an estimate for repairs will help you budget the expense, too.

7. The Design Choices Are Endless

When it comes time to replace your roof, you'll discover the design options are endless from classic styles like gable and hip roofs to modern variants like butterfly and mansard designs, not to mention combining elements like dormers or more complex layouts. The choices of materials and colors seem infinite too. Beyond cedar shake roofing or asphalt shingles, you can opt for exotic woods, recycled tires, zinc sheeting, terracotta tiles, and other alternatives. Work with a professional roofer to select the visual appeal and function that best suits your home's size, layout, and style. Mixing materials and roof planes makes a statement, too.

Your home's roof does so much heavy lifting shielding you from weather, lasting decades, impacting energy efficiency, and costing a chunk to replace someday. Now that you know more about what goes on over your head, pay a little more attention to that exterior MVP. Keep up with any maintenance, make energy-smart upgrades when replacing it someday, and check out cedar shake roofing as a durable classic. If you're looking to learn more about residential roofs or have specific questions about your roof, let us help you. Call Silverline Exteriors LLC today to learn more.