Choosing the right material for your roof replacement is one of those decisions homeowners can’t afford to get wrong.
Pick the wrong product, and you could be dealing with premature wear, leaks, higher utility bills, or costly repairs long before you should. Many homeowners underestimate how much climate, roof pitch, and even neighborhood aesthetic requirements affect their choice, and that can lead to expensive headaches down the road.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’ve guided countless Greater Lansing families through roof replacements, helping them balance durability, curb appeal, and budget.
In this article, you’ll learn the eight most common mistakes people make when selecting a roofing material, and how to steer clear of them so you get a roof that lasts, protects, and looks great for years to come:
- Choosing Based on Price Alone
- Ignoring Your Local Climate
- Overlooking Weight Limits and Structural Support
- Skipping Energy Efficiency Considerations
- Ignoring Maintenance Needs and Upkeep
- Forgetting HOA Rules and Municipal Restrictions
- Neglecting Curb Appeal and Architectural Fit
- Failing to Match Longevity with Your Plans
1. Choosing Based on Price Alone
It is easy to focus only on the upfront cost. Cheap labor and materials may seem like a win at the time, but they often require more repairs, shorter lifespans, or early replacement. Think about the total cost of ownership rather than the sticker price.
Why This Is Important
- A low initial price can mean higher lifetime costs from repairs and replacements.
- Better materials often come with longer warranties and stronger wind or hail protection.
- Saving a little now can lead to a much bigger expense later.
2. Ignoring Your Local Climate
Different roofing materials react differently to snow, ice, wind, sun, and humidity. Michigan’s freeze and thaw cycles, heavy snow, and occasional hail need to be part of your decision. Pick materials rated for the conditions you actually face.
In Michigan, there isn’t a published breakdown of roof material usage by type, but national industry data provides a reliable benchmark.
According to studies sourced by Rooflink, asphalt shingles dominate the U.S. residential market, covering about 70-75% of homes, while metal roofing has grown steadily to around 15-18% of the market. Cedar shake and other wood roofs make up only a small share today, typically in the low single digits, as they’ve become more of a specialty choice due to cost and maintenance considerations.
Why This Is Important
- The right material reduces weather-related damage and costly emergency repairs.
- Some roofs shed snow and ice better, lowering ice dam risk.
- Proper selection improves longevity and performance in real-world conditions.
3. Overlooking Weight Limits and Structural Support
Certain materials, like metal, slate, or clay tiles, are heavy. Your home’s framing may need reinforcement to support it. Skipping a structural assessment can lead to surprise costs or unsafe installations.
Why This Is Important
- Prevents structural overload and safety risks.
- Avoids unexpected costs for reinforcement after work has started.
- Ensures your roof installation meets building code requirements.
4. Skipping Energy Efficiency Considerations
PC: GAF Roofing
Roofs affect your home’s thermal performance. Reflective coatings, light color choices, and proper underlayment can lower cooling and heating costs. Don’t treat the roof like only an exterior finish.
Why This Is Important
- Improved energy performance lowers utility bills year-round.
- Certain materials and coatings can reduce attic heat buildup in summer.
- Energy-efficient choices can sometimes qualify for rebates or incentives.
5. Ignoring Maintenance Needs and Upkeep
Some materials need regular care. Wood shake, for example, requires treatments and inspections. If you do not want ongoing maintenance, choose a material with lower upkeep requirements.
Why This Is Important
- Maintenance needs affect long-term cost and effort.
- Proper upkeep preserves warranties and extends lifespan.
- Choosing the wrong maintenance profile can lead to faster deterioration.
6. Forgetting HOA Rules and Municipal Restrictions
Neighborhood associations and local building codes may control roof color, materials, and fire ratings. Failing to check rules first can mean rework, fines, or denied inspections.
Why This Is Important
- Avoids costly changes or permit delays after installation.
- Keeps your project compliant with local regulations and HOA covenants.
- Prevents disputes with neighbors or the association.
7. Neglecting Curb Appeal and Architectural Fit
Your roof is a major visual element. A material that clashes with your home's style looks out of place and can hurt resale value. Consider how color, texture, and profile work with siding, trim, and landscaping.
Why This Is Important
- A cohesive look supports resale value and neighborhood harmony.
- The right aesthetic choices reduce the chance of buyer objections later.
- Good design choices help justify the investment in higher-quality materials.
8. Failing to Match Longevity with Your Plans
Think about how long you plan to stay in the house. If you expect to live there for decades, a longer-lasting material makes sense. If you plan to sell soon, a mid-range option might be the smarter choice.
Why This Is Important
- Aligning material lifespan with your plans prevents overpaying or underbuilding.
- Long-term homeowners benefit more from premium materials and warranties.
- Buyers notice a quality roof at resale, but timing matters for ROI.
5 Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Roof Material
Before you start narrowing down your roofing options, it’s helpful to keep these essential factors in mind:
1. Local Climate Performance
Michigan weather means dealing with heavy snow, ice, and seasonal storms. Choose a material that holds up to freeze-thaw cycles without warping or cracking.
2. Maintenance Requirements
Some materials, like metal, require minimal upkeep. Others, like cedar shakes, need periodic sealing or treatment. Match the material to the time you’re willing to invest in upkeep.
3. Expected Lifespan
A higher upfront cost may make sense if the roof will last 40-50 years without replacement. Shorter-lifespan materials might be more budget-friendly now, but require earlier replacement.
4. Aesthetic Fit
The color, texture, and profile of the roofing should enhance your home’s curb appeal. Additionally, they should work well with your siding and architectural style.
5. Investment Goal Alignment
Don’t just consider the material cost. Factor in installation, underlayment, flashing, and any structural changes needed.
Next Steps to Remodeling or Replacing Your Roof
Protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs starts with selecting the proper roofing material.
By understanding and avoiding common mistakes, like ignoring climate needs, overlooking warranty details, or focusing only on upfront cost, you’re better equipped to make a smart, lasting choice.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’re committed to helping Michigan homeowners select and install roofing materials that stand up to our unique weather and enhance home value.
Ready to start your roof replacement journey? Contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your home’s needs and budget.
Now that you know more about common mistakes to avoid while choosing your roof replacement material, let’s explore what the first step of the Custom Built Proven Process looks like with your build, a deeper look into common roofing materials, and the best exterior home improvement projects:
- What is a Discovery Call with Custom Built? - This article details what your first call with Custom Built looks like as you start planning your remodel.
- Comparing Roofing Materials for Your Michigan Home - Learn more about the various roofing materials you can incorporate into your replacement project.
- Top 5 Exterior Home Improvement Solutions in Michigan - Discover exciting ways to upgrade your home’s exterior with weather-resistant options.
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