Your roof is the most important part of your house. It acts as the gateway to bigger damage to your home when it’s not in good condition. In the event of destructive weather, such as wind or hail, your roof will be the first part of your home to be damaged. The condition of your roof will also affect your insurance. Home insurance is based on the construction of your home and what it will cost insurers to replace or repair your roof. Living in areas with a higher risk of wildfire means homeowners pay more for insurance if their roof is made of cedar shakes compared to asphalt shingles. Speaking with your insurance agent before building or replacing a roof will give you an idea of how your premium will change.

When choosing what materials to use on your roof, it’s important to make an informed decision based on where you live and what effect it will have on your home. In a place like Albany, NY, wildfires are much less of a concern than snow load and hail damage.

Asphalt Shingle

For a 2,500-square-foot home, the average cost for a three-tab shingle roof is between $2,460 and $2,550. The price will be higher for architectural shingles. The cost per square for three-tab asphalt shingles is between $103 and $112. It is expected to last between 15 and 20 years.

Positives of asphalt shingles include:

• The least expensive material
• Lightweight, fire-resistant
• Economical to install
• Available in a variety of colors
• Can be installed over an existing roof

The cons of an asphalt roof are:

• Shingles fade, become brittle
• May attract mold and mildew
• May blow off in high winds

Tile Roof

A tile roof for a 2,500-square-foot home is $2,400 to $3,000 for concrete or $7,400 to $15,000 for clay. A tile roof is expected to last a lifetime when installed with sound underlayment. Positives for tile roofs include:

• Wide range of looks
• Will not burn, rot or attract insects
• Provides optimal attic insulation
• The only roof product that won’t fade, but instead will get darker

Cons of a clay roof are:

• May crack if anyone needs to walk on the roof
• Adds weight to the home’s structural supports
• The potential replacement cost could result in higher home insurance rates

Slate Roof

For a 2,500 square foot home, the cost should range between $13,500 and $22,500. It is expected to last a lifetime if it is installed correctly. Positives of a slate roof include:

• Impervious to fire, rot and insects
• Added benefits of great impact resistance
• Can be easier to repair
• Less maintenance

Cons include:

• Expensive to purchase and install
• Its weight may require extra structural support
• Will most likely add to home insurance costs