Choosing a new roof for your home can be challenging. It’s not a decision you need to make often. 

Before reading any further, we recommend you take a minute to set the purchasing criteria for your new roof. Cost is essential to most people, but a new roof should include value. Factors like appearance, longevity, and durability should all impact your decision-making. 

Here’s a quick read explaining 14 roofing criteria. Once you have set your standards, there’s a simple tool to help you make a roofing decision. 

A Decision Matrix 

The American Society for Quality defines a decision matrix as a “decision-making tool with a list of weighted criteria.”

• The simplest method is to create a chart of your primary wants and needs.
• Identify 5 to 7 points that matter to you.
• You can weight these criteria based on importance to you and your home, but a decision matrix offers insight even unweighted.

A decision matrix works great for a new roof because it considers multiple options and ultimately gives you an objective answer to consider. There are only a few kinds of roofing, but each brings benefits and, potentially, drawbacks to your home. 

You’ve likely either seen or used a decision matrix before. Here’s a sample we created to list the most common types of roofing and how they match up on several factors.

As you can see, we consider several factors, some very subjective like beauty, and others very objective like weight. Feel free to add your criteria and remove some we suggest; make sure you consider those most essential for your home and circumstances. 

We found that metal roofing had the best results compared to other materials. It lasts longer, looks better, reduces energy costs, and stands up to severe weather. 

You will need to do some research and fill in your findings. 

Our Roofing Research Helper contains an ebook, How to Buy a Metal Roof, that can get you much of the information you’ll need. Try our online tool to help you drill down on the criteria for your new roof and your situation in 10 minutes or less with our Roofing Needs Profiler. Visit Roofing Research Helper.

So write up your decision matrix for your next roofing decision (or any big decision coming up). On a napkin or in a spreadsheet, use whatever works best to help you feel confident in this significant investment in your home. 

Now we know that a decision this important takes time. Our friendly team of roofing professionals is available to assist you without pressure or obligation. Send us an email, and we’ll be in touch.