A roof is more than just a hat for your house, of course. Not only does it keep the elements out, but it comprises a large part of your home's facade – up to 40 percent, according to Better Homes and Gardens. If you're planning to remodel your home, give the roof some attention, too. Let your home's style drive the design and materials:

Dutch Colonial

Dutch Colonial homes feature sloping roofs that actually comprise more than 40 percent of your home's front facade. Wooden shakes, which are like shingles but split rather than hewn, are a traditional choice for such roofs. All wooden shakes are treated with fire retardant material for safety.

However, contractors can install concrete tiles that resemble wooden shakes without the fire considerations. Concrete tiles are heavier, though.

Tudor Style

Homes constructed in the Tudor style typically display steeply pitched roofs and cross gables. Slate was the material of choice for original Tudor homes. Slate is an extremely durable material that can last 100 years or more. It's heavy, though, and may require reinforcement of the roof framing.

Concrete tiles are an option here as well, though standard asphalt shingles mimic the look and color of slate from a distance.

Cottage Home

Cottage houses are unique. They typically present an asymmetrical massing of one-and-a-half to two stories. Metal is a distinctive roofing choice for cottage houses. Metal shingles are long-lasting and require little maintenance. They are made of aluminum, copper or steel, and also come in a wide variety of colors. Composition shingles are a budget option that also present an original look to your cottage's facade.

Contemporary Design

Modern style homes are typically constructed with strict geometry and clean lines. Roofs are often flat. Metal or slate is a good choice for such a roof because of the durability of the material. Rubber is another option. Made of molded plastic and rubber, such tiles offer the distinction of being a modern material choice for your contemporary home.

Spanish Mission

Spanish mission homes are often one- or two-story affairs that curve around a patio or courtyard. Naturally, molded clay tiles are the traditional choice for Spanish mission houses. Clay tiles are energy efficient and come in numerous colors. Clay tiles do require reinforcing the roof, though. Concrete tiles or often constructed to replicate the molded clay.

Your roof may not be the first aspect of your home visitors notice. However, their subconscious will tell them that a material and style fits cohesively with the rest of the design. Choose the roofing material that best matches your home's style.

To learn more, contact a company like Rai Roofing Ltd with any questions you have.