In the U.S., The Go-To Roofing Material is asphalt shingles due to their availability, affordability, and versatility. On the other hand, slate and clay tiles, known for their durability, come with a higher price tag compared to materials such as metal or wood. Additionally, alternatives like green roofs and solar shingles are among the priciest options available.

Replacing an old roof is not only a wise investment but also highly profitable for homeowners. Therefore, it’s crucial to select a roofing material that matches your home, climate, and budget. Moreover, if you are installing a new roof, finding the right roofing contractor is essential.

Almost 90% of U.S. homes use composite asphalt shingles because of their cost-effectiveness, durability, and ease of installation. In fact, asphalt shingles range from $1.50 to $5.50 per square foot, translating to approximately $8,000 for a complete roof installation. Furthermore, these shingles can last 30 years or more and are recyclable into pavement.

Shingles (Asphalt, Fiberglass, Composite)

Manufacturers combine fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral composites to produce asphalt shingles in a range of colors, including gray, brown, red, green, and blue. Nonetheless, these colors tend to fade over time due to sun exposure. Additionally, the appearance and quality can vary depending on whether you choose architectural or three-tab shingles.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Low-maintenance
• Widely available
• Suitable for most climates
• Available in various colors
• Recyclable

Cons:

• Colors fade with sun exposure
• Three-tab style is prone to wind damage
• Shorter lifespan

Architectural and Three-Tab:

Architectural asphalt shingles are thicker and individually layered, offering a more durable texture and increased weather resistance. Consequently, they are more expensive but can last between 15 and 30 years. Conversely, three-tab asphalt shingles are thinner, cut to mimic three individual shingles, and offer a uniform appearance. They are quicker to install and generally more affordable, but they last only 7 to 15 years and are more susceptible to wind damage.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing, while often seen as a modern option, has been in use since the 1800s. Today, metal sheets and shingles remain popular because materials like aluminum and zinc are affordable, easy to transport, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing—even as they age. They can last up to 50 years and cost between $6 and $14 per square foot, depending on the design and material.

There are two main types of metal roofing: shingles and sheets (or panels) that are connected with a “standing seam.” Additionally, metal roofing can be pre-treated with sealants and comes in a variety of colors. Some styles can even be painted.

Did You Know? The distinctive blue-gray rooftops of Paris derive their color from zinc panels installed in the 1830s.

Pros:

• Low-maintenance
• Durable
• Can mimic slate, asphalt, or wood
• Available in various colors
• Lightweight
• Recyclable

Cons:

• Requires soundproofing to minimize noise
• May warp or ripple with improper installation
• Needs specialized labor for installation and repairs

Standing Seam and Shingles:

Standing seam metal roofing requires precise installation to prevent ripples and ensure clean vertical lines. This type is generally more expensive, ranging from $9 to $14 per square foot. In contrast, metal shingles, designed to mimic slate, asphalt, or wood, are typically about $6 to $9 per square foot less costly than standing seam options.

Wood Roofing

Wood roofing complements charming Cape Cod cottages, cozy Craftsman homes, and Tudor-style houses beautifully. Initially, wood roofs start as sandy brown and gradually turn silver with age. In dry climates, they can last up to 50 years, but in fire-prone areas like California, they need special treatments. Wet climates, such as the East Coast, can accelerate wood roofing deterioration due to water damage.

Common Wood roofing materials include cedar, redwood, and pine, all of which naturally repel insects. Cedar shake roofing is particularly popular and typically costs between $5 and $7 per square foot.

Pros:

• Enhanced curb appeal
• Natural material

Cons:

• Prone to water damage, mold, mildew, and rot
• May require fire retardant and chemical preservative treatments
• High-maintenance

Shakes and Shingles:

Wood roofing can be shaped in two ways:

Shakes are split into wedges for a more rugged, natural appearance, costing around $3.50 per square foot, with installation ranging from $7 to $13. Shingles, on the other hand, are sawmilled to uniform dimensions, creating clean lines. Shingles are typically $1 to $2 less expensive than shakes.

Clay Tile

Clay tiles, a renowned roofing material with a history stretching back 5,000 years to ancient China, remain popular worldwide. They typically cost between $10 and $18 per square foot and have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years or more. Available in styles like Spanish, French, and Scania, clay tiles offer a variety of aesthetic choices.

Though installing and repairing clay tiles can be costly, their longevity surpasses that of nearly all other roofing types. They are especially favored in hot climates such as Southern California and Florida, as they can withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour and are highly fire-resistant.

Pros:

• Low-maintenance
• Attractive curb appeal
• Available in colors like terracotta, red, brown, and gray
• Made from natural materials
• Helps regulate indoor temperature

Cons:

• Susceptible to impact damage
• May require additional structural support due to weight
• Installation and repair may need specialized labor

Slate Roofing

Slate is renowned for its durability and is comparable in cost to clay tiles, ranging from $9 to $20 per square foot. With a lifespan of 50 to 200 years, slate is not only a fireproof roofing material but also resists high winds, extreme temperatures, and impacts from hail or small branches.

You can select from natural quarried slate or more affordable synthetic options like fiber cement slate or bituminous styles. Synthetic slate offers similar benefits to natural slate at a lower cost.

Pros:

• Long lifespan
• Low-maintenance
• Highly durable
• Available in colors such as gray, blue, green, brown, and red

Cons:

• Higher cost
• May require additional structural support due to its weight

Green Roof’s

Green roofs, also known as living roofs, feature vegetation such as grasses or native wildflowers that support pollinators. Installation costs range from $10 to $25 per square foot. These roofs offer several benefits, including reducing outside heat and minimizing rainwater runoff, and they typically last between 30 and 50 years.

Once you learn more about green roofing, it might become a top choice for your home.

Pros:

• Durable
• Environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Requires regular gardening and water maintenance
• Needs additional structural support for weight and water
• Demands specialized labor for installation

Rolled Roofing

Rolled roofing Material is often one of the most budget-friendly roofing options available, making it popular among homeowners and builders looking to save money. Both the materials and labor costs are relatively low. It’s best suited for roofs with a low incline, as it can be easily hammered into place. However, it is not recommended for flat roofs, as this can lead to water leaks.

Pros:

• Ideal for low-slope roofs
• No need for an underlayment

Cons:

• Typically lasts only five to ten years
• May not match the quality of more expensive roofing options