Best Types of Roofing Materials: Pros and Cons

When it comes to protecting your home, the right roofing material is essential. In this article, we will cover ten types of roofing materials, outlining the pros and cons of each. 

You will learn about options ranging from asphalt shingles to green roofs, helping you choose the best material for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Each roofing material offers unique benefits and drawbacks, and factors such as budget, durability, local climate, and aesthetics should guide homeowners’ decisions.
• Popular options like architectural shingles and metal roofing provide long-term durability and energy efficiency. In contrast, cost-effective choices like three-tab shingles and rubber shingles offer easier maintenance and affordability.
• Advanced and specialized roofing options like green roofs, solar shingles, and built-up roofing (BUR) offer additional benefits such as environmental sustainability, energy cost reduction, and enhanced fire resistance, making them suitable for specific needs and preferences.

Introduction

Understanding the various roofing materials available is essential for homeowners looking to make an informed decision. Key considerations when choosing a roof include:

• Budget
• Longevity
• Durability
• Weight
• Slope
• Aesthetics
• Environmental friendliness
• Local building codes

Each type of roofing material has its unique advantages and disadvantages, making it suitable for different needs and preferences.

Durability and lifespan are particularly important. Roofing materials like slate or metal can last several decades if properly maintained, providing excellent long-term value and protection. 

However, these materials often come at a higher upfront cost, making balancing initial investment with long-term benefits essential.

Local climate is another crucial factor when choosing roof materials. For example, metal roofing offers superior resistance to high winds and heavy snow, while others, like clay or concrete tiles, are ideal for hot climates due to their thermal mass properties. 

By considering these factors, homeowners can select a roofing material that enhances their home’s appearance and withstands the local weather conditions.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials due to their affordability and versatility. They come in two main styles: architectural and three-tab shingles. 

Both types offer distinct advantages, making them suitable for various climates and architectural styles. An asphalt shingle roof is known for its ease of installation and relatively low maintenance requirements.

Energy-efficient roofing materials, such as reflective metal or asphalt shingles, can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption, making them eco-friendly. Additionally, asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and designs, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their home’s aesthetics. 

Budget considerations should include both the initial cost of installation and long-term maintenance expenses.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, offer a more premium appearance compared to traditional three-tab shingles. They are designed to mimic the look of natural materials like wood or slate, providing a more visually appealing option for homeowners.

One of the main advantages of architectural shingles is their durability; they can last up to 50 years, making them a long-lasting roofing solution. These shingles also have a high impact rating, making them suitable for areas prone to severe weather. 

They offer better wind resistance than three-tab shingles, which can be particularly beneficial in regions with frequent storms.

While architectural shingles are more expensive, their extended lifespan and enhanced durability can provide significant long-term savings.

Three-Tab Shingles

Three-tab shingles are a budget-friendly option for homeowners, making them one of the most common types of traditional asphalt shingles used in residential roofing. They feature a simpler design with three distinct tabs, which gives them a uniform appearance. 

However, their straightforward design means they may require more frequent maintenance compared to architectural shingles.

Typically, three-tab shingles have a lifespan of about 20 years, which is shorter than that of architectural shingles. Despite this, they remain a popular choice for those looking for an affordable roofing solution. 

Their lower initial cost makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners, even though they may need to be replaced more frequently.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is celebrated for its durability and energy efficiency. Thanks to its reflective properties, a metal roof is recyclable and can significantly cut down on energy consumption. 

Metal roofs come in various styles, including standing seam and metal shingles, each offering unique benefits. Their superior UV protection and ability to keep moisture away make them an excellent choice for many homeowners.

The lifespan of metal roofs is impressive, often ranging between 30 to 50 years, with some lasting up to 75 years. This long lifespan, combined with their low maintenance requirements, makes metal roofing a cost-effective option in the long run. 

However, the initial cost can be higher than other roofing materials, which is something to consider when making your decision.

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofs are characterized by raised interlocking seams that connect panels running vertically along the roof. 

This design prevents water penetration, making them highly suitable for areas prone to heavy rain or snow, and offers exceptional durability and longevity, often lasting several decades with standing seam metal roofing

These roofs are resistant to:

• Fire
• Mildew
• Insects
• Rot

This resistance adds to their durability. Made from metal roofing materials like steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc, standing seam metal roofs are highly customizable with a range of colors and finishes available. 

However, their higher initial cost compared to other roofing materials is a consideration for potential buyers.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles offer the following benefits:

• Durability of metal roofing
• Classic look of traditional materials like slate, wood, or asphalt shingles
• Versatility to mimic various roofing styles
• Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a home

This versatility makes metal shingles a popular choice among homeowners looking to combine durability with a traditional appearance.

Stone-coated steel roofing tiles are an example of metal shingles designed to mimic materials such as slate or clay. 

These shingles provide the benefits of metal roofing, including longevity and low maintenance, while offering a more affordable alternative to natural materials. The cost-effectiveness and durability of metal shingles make them a compelling option for many homeowners.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are known for their classic, beautiful, and rustic appearance. Made from various types of wood, such as cedar, spruce, or redwood, they provide energy efficiency and durability. 

However, wood roofing can be pricey to order and install and requires regular maintenance to prevent damage from moisture and rot.

There are two main types of wood roofing: shingles and shakes. Shingles are thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood produced by precise sawing, while shakes are thicker wedges with a rougher texture produced by splitting wood. 

Each type offers distinct aesthetic and functional benefits, making it suitable for different architectural styles and climates.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles have a smooth, flat appearance, making them ideal for homeowners seeking a uniform look. These shingles are machine-cut to a specific size and tapered for a neater appearance, providing a more polished and refined aesthetic. 

While they offer a beautiful finish, wood shingles can be susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance.

A wood shingle roof can last up to 60 years in relatively dry climates. However, its lifespan may be reduced to 20 to 30 years in damp conditions. This variability in lifespan underscores the importance of considering local climate conditions when choosing wood shingles as a roofing material. 

Despite the maintenance requirements, wood shingles remain a popular choice for their natural beauty and energy efficiency.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes offer a rugged, textured appearance due to the varying grain patterns created during the splitting process. This texture provides a rustic look that can add character and charm to a home. 

Wood shakes are typically thicker than wood shingles, offering higher impact resistance and durability.

One advantage of wood shakes is their Class 4 impact resistance rating, which indicates they can withstand impacts from a 2-inch chunk of ice. However, like wood shingles, they require regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage and rot.

Wood shakes are a versatile and aesthetically pleasing option for homeowners who appreciate a more natural and rustic look.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is renowned for its exceptional durability and can last a century or more if properly installed. This longevity makes slate roofs a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking a long-lasting roofing solution. 

However, due to its weight, slate roofing is an expensive option and typically requires reinforced roof decking for support.

Slate shingles are best suited for steep roofs, ideally in the 12:12 to 18:12 slope range. Proper headlap and exposure are crucial to accommodate wind-driven rain and lateral water movement, making slate roofs less suitable for flatter roofs but perfect for homes with steep pitches that can showcase their unique and distinguished appearance.

Natural Slate Tiles

Natural slate tiles are made from thin shingles of natural metamorphic stone, offering a unique and distinguished appearance. They are known for their long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements, making them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a high-end roofing solution.

However, the cost of natural slate roofing can be substantial, ranging from $9.50 to $25 per square foot. This high upfront cost is balanced by the material’s longevity and durability, which can last over 100 years with proper maintenance. 

However, reinforced roof decking is required to support the weight of the tiles, which can add to the overall installation costs

Synthetic Slate Tiles

Synthetic slate tiles are made from engineered polymers combined with recycled plastic and rubber. They offer a more affordable and lightweight alternative to natural slate. These tiles are easier to install and require less structural support, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.

The cost of synthetic slate roofing ranges between $5.50 to $12 per square foot, providing a more budget-friendly option compared to natural slate. 

Despite being more affordable, synthetic slate tiles can still offer a lifespan of up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance.

Some advantages of synthetic slate roofing include:

• Lighter weight
• Ease of installation
• Lower cost compared to natural slate
• Durability and longevity

These factors make synthetic slate an attractive option for those looking to achieve the look of slate without the associated costs and heavy roofing requirements.

Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are known for their longevity and fire resistance, making them ideal for hot climates. These tiles come in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home’s architecture. 

Both clay and concrete tiles are heavy and may require additional structural support for installation.

Clay tiles are particularly valued for their traditional and aesthetic appeal, and they are commonly used in Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture.

Concrete tiles, on the other hand, are highly resistant to strong winds and fire, providing excellent protection in areas prone to severe weather conditions. Both types of tiles offer unique benefits, making them suitable for different architectural styles and climates.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are known for their traditional and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice in roofing materials. They are commonly used in Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture, adding a distinctive character to the roofs. Available in various colors, including:

• White
• Yellow
• Orange
• Brown

Clay tiles can enhance the visual appeal of any home, with terracotta being the most common.

One of the main advantages of clay tiles is their low water absorption rate, typically less than 15%, which helps prevent water damage. Additionally, the design of clay tiles allows for air circulation beneath them, helping to regulate rooftop temperatures, making them a durable and energy-efficient option for homeowners.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, with larger aggregates like gravel often included in the mix. These highly durable tiles can sustain winds over 125 miles per hour, making them an excellent choice for areas prone to strong winds. 

Additionally, concrete tiles are Class A fire-rated, providing superior fire resistance.

Compared to clay tiles, concrete tiles have several advantages:

• They are typically less expensive, with costs ranging from $2 to $4 per square foot.
• They are durable and fire-resistant, making them a practical and cost-effective roofing solution for many homeowners.
• They have high thermal mass, contributing to energy efficiency by storing heat during the day and releasing it at night.

Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing is particularly suitable for flat or low-sloped roofs. It provides excellent water resistance and energy efficiency. This type of roofing is often made from recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Benefits of rubber roofing:

• Excellent water resistance
• Energy efficient
• Made from recycled materials
• Durable, lasting between 20 to 25 years and sometimes up to 50 years

One key benefit of rubber roofing is its waterproof properties, which protect low-sloped roofs from water damage. Additionally, rubber roofing provides good insulation, helping to reduce energy costs by deflecting heat away from the structure. 

This energy-efficient option can contribute to lower utility bills over time.

Rubber Shingles

Rubber shingles are an eco-friendly roofing option made from recycled rubber. They offer durability and low maintenance. These shingles can last up to 50 years and are available in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home’s design. 

Minor leaks in rubber shingles can often be fixed with a fresh coat of sealant, making maintenance straightforward and cost-effective.

Rubber shingles typically range from $4.25 to $8.25 per square foot, making them a cost-effective choice compared to other roofing materials. Some benefits of rubber shingles include:

• They can be installed over existing shingle roofs, extending their lifespan and improving energy efficiency.
• They have good insulation properties, helping to lower energy costs.
• They are an attractive option for many homeowners.

Green Roofs

Green roofs, also known as vegetated or living roofs, are covered with living plants and offer numerous environmental benefits. A green roof consists of a waterproofing membrane, growing medium (soil), and vegetation (plants), providing thermal insulation and absorbing rainwater. 

These roofs can help reduce building energy use by cooling roofs and providing shading, thermal mass, and insulation.

Green roofs have several benefits, including:

• Increasing biodiversity by providing new urban habitats for plants and animals.
• Contributing to environmental sustainability.
• Helping to reduce the urban heat island effect by cooling cities and delaying stormwater flow.

However, they require structural support and various components like a vapor barrier, thermal insulation, waterproofing, drainage, water filtration, soil, compost, and plants.

Extensive Green Roofs

Extensive green roofs are lighter and require less maintenance compared to intensive green roofs, making them suitable for residential buildings. 

These roofs typically feature a shallow growing medium and are planted with hardy, low-maintenance vegetation such as sedums and grasses. Extensive green roofs are designed to be self-sustaining and require minimal irrigation.

Extensive green roofs’ lower weight and maintenance requirements make them an attractive option for homeowners looking to incorporate greenery into their roofing system without significant upkeep. 

They provide many of the same benefits as intensive green roofs, including thermal insulation, rainwater absorption, and urban habitat, but with less demand for structural support and maintenance.

Intensive Green Roofs

Intensive green roofs support a wider variety of plants, including shrubs, trees, and even small gardens, making them more similar to traditional gardens. 

These roofs require a deeper growing medium and more structural support, which can increase the initial installation costs and ongoing maintenance requirements.

Intensive green roofs offer significant environmental and aesthetic benefits despite the higher maintenance needs. They provide:

• A lush, green space that can be used for recreational purposes.
• Increased overall biodiversity of the area.
• Superior thermal insulation and rainwater management compared to extensive green roofs.

These benefits make them valuable to any building willing to invest in its upkeep.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are an innovative roofing solution that combines the functionality of solar panels with the aesthetics of traditional roof shingles. These advanced solar collectors integrate seamlessly into existing shingles, generating electricity and helping to offset energy costs. 

Depending on the brand and model, solar shingles can generate between 13 and 63 watts of energy per tile.

However, solar shingles are more expensive than traditional solar panels, with costs ranging from $3.80 to $7.00 per watt. The average cost for a standard-sized home can be between $60,000 and $75,000, not including installation.

 Despite the high initial cost, solar shingles offer a lifespan of up to 30 years and can significantly reduce energy bills over time by harnessing renewable energy.

Integrated Solar Panels

Integrated solar panels have several advantages:

• They are built directly into the roofing material, generating energy without compromising the roof’s aesthetics.
• These panels convert sunlight into electricity, significantly reducing energy bills and improving energy efficiency.
• Integrated solar panels are less noticeable than traditional solar panels due to their low profile, blending seamlessly with the roof.

One limitation of integrated solar panels is that the roof’s orientation constrains them, while conventional solar panels can be installed at optimal angles for maximum sunlight capture. 

Despite this, integrated solar panels efficiently harness solar energy and reduce overall energy costs, making them a valuable investment for homeowners.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

BUR, also known as tar and gravel roofing, is a long-standing option for flat or low-pitched roofs and one of the oldest types of roofing materials in use. It is constructed with several layers of roofing felt impregnated with asphalt, tar, or adhesive, topped with an aggregate like gravel or stone. These layers create a durable, waterproof, and fire-resistant roofing system that can last 20 to 30 years.

The average cost of a BUR roof ranges from $2.50 to $4.00 per square foot, making it a cost-effective option for flat or low-pitched roofs. BUR roofs offer the following benefits:

• Resistance to UV rays, preventing cracking and fading over time
• Durability and longevity
• Affordability
• Fire resistance

These qualities make BUR a popular choice for many commercial and residential buildings.

Advantages of BUR

One of the primary advantages of BUR roofing is its fire resistance, which enhances the safety of buildings. This fire resistance makes BUR a suitable option for buildings in areas prone to wildfires or where fire safety is a significant concern. 

The multiple layers of BUR roofing also provide excellent waterproofing, protecting the building from water damage and leaks.

BUR roofing offers several benefits, including:

• Resistance to UV rays, preventing cracking and fading over time
• Maintaining the roof’s appearance and structural integrity
• Reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements
• Durability and low maintenance requirements
• Cost-effectiveness

These advantages make BUR roofing a practical choice for many building owners.

Membrane Roofing

Membrane roofing is a popular choice for flat or low-pitched roofs and is known for its reliability, affordability, and ease of installation and repair. 

Common membrane roofing materials include EPDM, TPO, and PVC, each offering unique benefits. Membrane roofing systems have over 50 years of proven performance, providing a long-lasting roofing solution.

Membrane roof systems are available in white for UV reflection or black for heat retention, catering to different climate needs. 

The high vapor-permeability of membrane roofing allows excessive moisture to evaporate from the insulation, enhancing the roof’s tightness and protecting the insulation from moisture. This feature makes membrane roofing a versatile and effective option for various roof structures.

EPDM Membrane

EPDM membranes are known for their excellent durability and weather resistance, making them suitable for various climate conditions. They are also highly resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which helps prevent degradation and extend their lifespan.

Here are some key benefits of EPDM roofing:

• Excellent durability and weather resistance
• Highly resistant to UV radiation
• Typical lifespan of 20 to 35 years
• Can exceed lifespan range with proper maintenance

EPDM membranes are straightforward to install, contributing to their popularity among roofing contractors. They are also flexible, allowing them to adapt to temperature fluctuations and building movements without cracking or splitting. 

This flexibility, combined with their durability and UV resistance, makes EPDM membranes a reliable choice for many roofing applications.

TPO Membrane

TPO membranes are energy-efficient and offer reflective properties that help reduce cooling costs. These membranes are designed to reflect heat, making them an excellent choice for buildings in hot climates. The energy efficiency of TPO membranes can contribute to lower utility bills, providing long-term cost savings for building owners.

TPO membranes are also known for their durability and resistance to punctures, tears, and impact damage, making them a practical choice for commercial and residential buildings alike. The combination of energy efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness makes TPO membranes a popular option for many roofing projects.

Summary

Choosing the right roofing material involves balancing various factors such as budget, longevity, durability, aesthetic appeal, and local climate conditions. Asphalt shingles offer affordability and ease of installation, while metal roofing provides long-lasting durability and energy efficiency. 

Wood shingles and shakes bring a rustic charm but require regular maintenance, whereas slate roofing offers exceptional longevity at a higher cost.

Clay and concrete tiles are ideal for hot climates, providing fire resistance and durability, while rubber roofing is an eco-friendly choice for flat or low-sloped roofs. Green roofs offer environmental benefits and enhanced insulation, while solar shingles combine energy generation with traditional roofing aesthetics. 

Built-up roofing (BUR) and membrane roofing are excellent choices for flat or low-pitched roofs, each offering unique advantages in terms of durability and cost-effectiveness.

Ultimately, the best roofing material for your home depends on your specific needs and preferences. 

By considering the pros and cons of each material, as well as factors like local climate and budget, you can make an informed decision that enhances your home’s protection, energy efficiency, and curb appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer:

The content in this blog is for informational purposes only and is intended to assist homeowners in understanding roofing, siding, windows, gutters, shutters, and general home improvements. Xterior LLC advises against attempting any of the tasks described here, as they require professional expertise. We do not assume liability for any injuries, damages, or losses resulting from DIY attempts. Always refer to the manufacturer of products for specific maintenance instructions.

By viewing this blog, you acknowledge and release Xterior LLC from any and all liability related to the use or misuse of the information provided.

Please note that Xterior LLC may not offer all the services discussed. Repairs, estimates, and inspections are priced based on availability, location, and time. All services, offerings, and prices are subject to change without notice.

For more information or to request services, please contact Xterior LLC directly.