Roofs and Siding - Design Build Commercial and Custom Homes in Eastern NC

Shingles Pros:	Shingles Cons:
Cost-effective	Needs to be replaced and repaired periodically
Easy to replace and repair if a few shingles are damaged or missing	Can allow water to leak through if there’s no waterproof membrane
A water membrane can be added underneath, so if shingles come loose, water won’t seep through immediately	The color tends to fade over time
Most roofers are experienced with shingle installations	–

Metal Roofs Pros:	Metal Roofs Cons:
In most climates, they’re built to last a lifetime	Expensive
Available in a variety of attractive colors	Lower-quality metal can rust
Highly resistant to leaks	If installed incorrectly, the entire roof can come off in a single storm
Almost indestructible when properly installed	Fewer contractors specialize in metal roofs

What Does SunCoast Do?

At SunCoast, we’re dedicated to installing whichever roofing option you prefer, ensuring it’s done to the highest standards. Pro Tip: If you opt for shingles, consider adding a water barrier underneath. This affordable upgrade provides an extra layer of protection during storms. If you choose a metal roof, we’ll find a top-quality installer to make sure it’s built to withstand the toughest conditions.

The biggest factor in roofing quality is how it’s installed. There are varying levels of quality in materials, and we always use the best shingles or metal options our clients can afford. In our spec homes, we often use shingles because we have extensive experience with them and because they keep the price accessible for many homeowners.

Speak Up if Something Looks Wrong

Eugene often advises his clients, “If something looks wrong, it probably is.” He’s right. If you look at your roof and something doesn’t seem quite right, speak up! You may not be an expert, but you know what looks out of place. You see countless roofs every day, so trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Ask Yourself These Questions Before Choosing a Roof

Before you commit to a roofing material, consider the following:

How long do you plan to stay in this house? If it’s a forever home, consider a metal roof, but be sure to choose a local, reputable installer.
Do you live in a high-wind area? If so, research contractors who specialize in metal roofs. Shingles can take some storm abuse, but with metal roofs, you’ll want to ensure they’re professionally secured.
Are you close to the ocean? Salt air can cause even galvanized metal to rust, so shingles might be a better long-term choice.
What’s your budget? If affordability is a priority, shingles may better fit your needs.

Siding: Exploring Options and Choosing What’s Right

Pro Tip: Before purchasing land, check if your HOA has restrictions on siding or roofing materials. Many HOAs stipulate approved materials in their covenants, which may impact your design choices.

The most common siding options in our area are vinyl and Hardie board. You can combine different styles and materials, depending on your budget and creativity. Let’s examine the pros and cons of vinyl and Hardie board siding.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl Siding Pros:	Vinyl Siding Cons:
Very economical	Lower-quality vinyl can warp or “wave” down the side of the house if not installed properly
Wide range of colors (although somewhat limited)	Limited color options, typically in neutral shades
Available in lap, shake, and board and batten styles	Some HOAs may restrict its use
Durable, provided the quality is high and it’s correctly installed	–

Hardie Board

Hardie Board Pros:	Hardie Board Cons:
Can be painted any color you like	More expensive, partly due to the added cost of painting
Available in a few styles, though board and batten may leak if improperly installed	Requires painting, which means potential repainting over time
More durable under severe weather conditions	Proper Installation Is Key

No matter the siding material, correct installation is crucial. Quality house wrap should be applied first, along with flashing around windows, doors, and decks to direct water away from vulnerable areas. Without these steps, water can funnel through windows and doors, even if the siding is correctly installed. Eugene has seen this firsthand, often requesting that siding crews reflash areas before reinstalling siding. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a water-resistant home and teaches contractors best practices for future projects.

If we use vinyl siding, we opt for a high-quality material and install it to withstand typical high winds without issue.

A Dedication to Doing Things Right

Eugene’s commitment to excellence shines in every aspect of our building process. He isn’t afraid to ask anyone on the team to start over if needed, always with a professional approach. Our project managers who also have a keen eye for detail, helps ensure that nothing is overlooked. Together, their experience and commitment to quality set SunCoast apart.

This doesn’t mean we’re perfect, but it does mean we’re always striving for the best. SunCoast is dedicated to building homes that are not only beautiful but also built to last, providing our clients with peace of mind and a solid investment for years to come.

Up Next

We’ve covered many essential aspects of what makes a SunCoast home different—from the framing and structure to the roofing and siding, each element chosen and constructed with your home’s longevity in mind. In the final article of our series, Why SunCoast? What Makes Us Different, we’ll dive into three critical systems that keep your home running smoothly: plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. These are the heart of your home’s functionality and comfort, and when properly designed and installed, they’ll give you peace of mind in every season. Join us as we explore how SunCoast ensures reliability, safety, and efficiency in these vital systems.