5 Roof Replacement Considerations For A Cabin In The Woods

Posted on: 28 May 2021

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If you are putting a new roof on your cabin in the woods, then you need to carefully consider the roofing material options available. The following can help you decide which replacement roof material to choose.

1. Fire Safety

Any home in a wooded area can be at risk during a wildfire. This is especially true for those living in the west, where fires are becoming more common. In many areas, there may be building code requirements that dictate the fire resistance level of your replacement roofing options. Metal and tile roofs typically rank high when it comes to fire resistance. There are also some asphalt shingle roofing options that are rated for fire resistance. Make sure the replacement material you choose meets any restrictions.

2. Impact Resistance

Impacts can be another issue in a wooded area, especially if you have trees very near the home. Fallen branches can easily puncture an asphalt roof, for example. If this is a vacation home, it could be weeks before you are even aware of the damage. Metal is one of the more impact-resistant roofing options, which is why it is seen on many cabins and other forest homes.

3. Maintenance

Maintenance can be difficult on homes that are off the beaten path. Getting the equipment and materials out to the home is often more expensive due to travel times and road conditions. This means that you want to choose something that won't need to be replaced again or even repaired for a long time. Metal and tile roofs have some of the longest lifespans, with metal sheet roofing needing the least maintenance. Asphalt roofing can last a while between replacements, but it may need more frequent repairs and maintenance compared to the other two options.

4. Mountability

Many people with woodland cabins also depend on a few off-grid solutions. Solar panels are a popular one, and these are often mounted on the roof. Other items may also require roof mounting, such as satellite dishes. It's always best to replace the roof before mounting fixed items on the roof, as this saves time and effort later. It's also good to choose a material with good longevity and high moisture resistance, so metal is the most popular choice if you will be doing a rooftop mount. 

5. Weight 

Depending on the location of your cabin, heavy snow could be a seasonal concern. All of that weight on the roof can lead to a collapse if it is greater than what the roof is rated for. Lightweight replacement material options can lower the weight load when the snow piles up. Tile is heavy, so not often chosen in snowy climates. Asphalt is lightweight, but metal is the lightest option.

Contact a roof replacement service if you are ready to put on a new roof on your cabin in the woods.