Planning to put up a new roof on your house? There are lots of things to think through before you can start the project. One of the key things to consider is which type of material you should use to build your roof. Here are five essential things to take into consideration:

1. Longevity 

There are several different types of roofing materials on the construction market, but they aren't all equally durable. When choosing roofing material for your house, consider its expected lifespan. Go for a roofing material that offers the longest lifespan whenever you can. Building a new roof is a big job, so you'll want the results to last as long as possible. 

2. Local building codes and regulations

Before picking a material for your roof construction, you should know what's allowed and not allowed by your local building department. Some municipalities impose bans on certain types of roofing materials, so you should consult your local building department before choosing one. Some homeowners' associations may also restrict certain roof types for aesthetic reasons, so make sure you check with yours.

3. Availability 

Although there may be many different kinds of roofing materials out there, not all may be locally available. It's a good idea to check with your local roofing suppliers to find out what inventories they have. These companies can explain the options available to you and help you make the best choice.

4. Physical appearance

For applications where aesthetics are important, you'll need to choose a roofing material that will complement the architectural style of your home. Your homeowners' association may recommend which types of roofing materials you should use, but the final decision is yours to make.

5. Budget

As with any other construction project, roof installation costs money. The bigger the size of your budget, the more options you'll have available to choose from. A roofing contractor can provide you with cost estimates for different roofing materials so you can choose the one you can afford -- but keep in mind that people typically get what they pay for. 

Several other factors may affect your choice of a roofing material, but you can't go wrong if you consider these five above-discussed factors. If you need help with your roofing material selection, don't hesitate to consult a specialist serving your local area. They will listen to your project needs and suggest the best roofing material.