Choosing the right roofing material for your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. The roof protects your entire home from the elements and needs to be durable enough to withstand years of exposure to sun, rain, snow, and wind. In this article, we will explore the 10 best roofing materials available today based on factors like durability, longevity, cost, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. With so many options on the market, we’ll help you select the right material for your climate and budget.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in North America for good reason – they check off all the boxes of what you want in a roof. Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles to complement any home’s exterior aesthetic. They are affordable, easy to install, durable enough to last 20-30 years, and require minimal maintenance beyond occasional inspections for damage.
The asphalt shingle’s layered construction gives it strength and weather resistance. The bottom asphalt-coated layer bonds strongly to the roof deck while the top layer of mineral granules protects against UV radiation and provides color. 3-tab shingles are the most common, getting their name from their three tabs cut into the bottom layer. Architectural or laminated shingles are thicker and give a more dimensional, textured look. These are more expensive but have a longer lifespan of 30-50 years.
Asphalt shingles perform well in most climates, handling heat, cold, and snow admirably. Their main drawback is vulnerability to high winds once damaged or nearing the end of their lifespan. Overall, it’s hard to beat the affordability and well-rounded performance of asphalt shingles for the average homeowner.
Metal Roofing
For homeowners wanting a durable, long-lasting roofing material, metal is an excellent option. Metal roofs have an average lifespan of 40-70 years, much longer than most other materials. The extended longevity means you’ll have fewer roof replacements over the lifetime of your home.
Steel, aluminum, and copper are common metal roofing materials, each with their pros and cons. Steel is the most popular and affordable option. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. Copper is the premium choice, offering unparalleled durability but at a higher cost.
Metal roofing excels in several ways. It’s fire-resistant, can reflect solar radiation to reduce cooling costs, and withstands high winds extremely well when installed correctly. The slick surface also makes it difficult for snow and ice to accumulate in colder climates. Minimal maintenance requirements are another plus.
On the downside, metal roofs have higher upfront installation costs than asphalt shingles. Also, rain falling on a metal roof can create a loud, drumming sound, so they may not be ideal for homes where noise could be an issue. Overall, metal makes an excellent roofing choice if you can afford the initial investment and want maximum durability.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
For a classic, rustic look on a home, wood roofing is a top choice. Both wood shakes (handsplit) and shingles (sawn) have been used for centuries and remain popular today. Their natural beauty and textured look simply can’t be replicated by any other material. Cedar is the best type of wood for longevity as it has natural oils that resist rot and decay.
Wooden roofs are quite durable if properly maintained. Shakes typically last 20-30 years, while shingles last 25-30 years or more. Keeping wood roofs stained or sealed is important to minimize sun damage and prevent moisture issues. Due to the need for regular upkeep, wood roofing does require more maintenance than other materials.
In addition to aesthetic appeal, wood roofs offer good fire resistance and insulation properties. However, they are more vulnerable in wet climates prone to algae or mold growth. Wood also has lower impact resistance compared to other materials. Overall, wood makes an excellent roofing choice for certain homes but requires vigilance to maximize its lifespan.
Tile
If you want a roof with Old World charm and timeless beauty, tile is an exceptional choice. Clay and concrete are the most common types of tile, each with their own benefits. Clay is more expensive but offers unbeatable aesthetics and longevity, often lasting over 100 years. Concrete tiles are more affordable yet still durable, with a 60-year lifespan.
Tile roofs provide outstanding protection thanks to their heavy weight and fireproof/waterproof properties. Other perks are color stability, minimal maintenance needs, and excellent wind resistance. Homes suited to Mediterranean, Spanish, or Italian architectural styles are especially complemented by tile roofs.
On the downside, tile roofs have higher upfront costs for materials and specialized installation. They can also crack from impact and are prone to breakage if walked on carelessly during maintenance. In colder climates, concrete tile’s water absorption can lead to damage from freeze-thaw cycles. Overall, tile makes an exceptional choice if your home’s style calls for it and you can afford the initial investment.
Slate
For a sophisticated roofing material oozing Old World elegance, it’s hard to top slate. Prized for its attractive colors, textures, and angular shape, natural slate has been used on upscale homes for centuries. While more expensive than most other roofing materials, slate is also the most durable, often lasting over 100 years.
Slate’s longevity comes from its dense, layered metamorphic rock composition. The material is naturally waterproof and fireproof. Slate roofs require essentially zero maintenance other than minor repairs as needed. Their unique tapered profile also allows slate roofs to shed water, snow, and debris easily.
Home styles characterized by steeply pitched roofs and Gothic Revival or English Cotswold architecture stand to benefit most from slate’s handsome styling. Downsides to consider are the high cost and weight requiring a structural assessment before installation. But for certain homes, a slate roof is the absolute pinnacle of beauty and durability.
Rubber Roofing (EPDM)
Homeowners needing a durable and eco-friendly roofing solution should consider rubber roofing, also known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer). EPDM rubber roofs are most frequently seen on flat or low-slope commercial buildings but are also a wise choice for some residential homes.
EPDM is waterproof, flexible, and capable of handling extreme temperature fluctuations. Seams are sealed with contact cement or tape, creating a single membrane across the roof surface. The material’s elastomeric properties allow it to expand and contract without splitting or tearing. Lifespans of over 50 years are common for EPDM roofs.
Other than periodic inspections, EPDM requires minimal maintenance. It stays flexible down to -45° F and has excellent puncture/tear resistance. Rubber roofs also have a much lower environmental impact compared to other synthetics. Initial installation costs can be high for residential use, but lifespan savings make EPDM worth consideration.
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen offers homeowners many benefits of asphalt roofing but with enhanced durability and longevity. It’s composed of asphalt mixed with plastic polymers (the modification), which makes the material stronger and more flexible. This allows modified bitumen to better handle temperature swings and movements of the roof deck beneath it.
Installation involves torching down rolls of modified bitumen or adhering them with liquid asphalt. The material can have a smooth surface but is often coated in minerals or colored acrylic paint to increase solar reflectivity. Modified bitumen is also available in shingle form mimicking the look of asphalt while providing a longer lifespan of 20-30 years.
Overall, modified bitumen combines the affordability and familiarity of asphalt roofing with increased resilience and longevity. For homeowners who like asphalt’s advantages but want a more robust material, modified bitumen is an excellent option.
Solar Shingles/Tiles
For the environmentally conscious homeowner, solar shingles and tiles allow you to produce renewable electricity right from your roof. Options include thick solar shingles meant to replace your whole roof or thin film overlays that adhere atop existing shingles. While still a niche market, solar roofing technology is improving quickly and costs are coming down.
Obviously, the main perk is energy bill savings from harnessing the sun’s energy. Solar roofs also have a wow factor from their sleek, high-tech look. When integrated with a home battery system, you can store electricity for use at night or during power outages. Most solar roofs have warranties of at least 20 years but will continue producing energy beyond that.
Downsides to weigh include higher upfront costs and lower efficiency than traditional solar panels. Most homes require a combination of solar shingles and panels to meet all electrical needs. But as the technology improves and costs decrease over the next decade, solar roofs’ advantages will make them an increasingly popular choice.
Stone Coated Steel
For homeowners seeking an innovative new roofing material, stone coated steel combines modern technology with an elegant, dignified style. Steel panels coated in natural stone granules offer the energy efficiency and longevity of metal roofing with the beauty of shake or slate. Stone coatings provide additional protection from weather, extending the roof’s lifespan to 60+ years.
Stone coated steel comes in attractive tones like slate gray, chestnut, and moss green. The material is fireproof, waterproof, and molded to mimic the dimensional look of wood shakes or clay tiles. Other benefits include extreme wind/hail resistance and excellent energy efficiency from the stone coating’s ability to reflect solar radiation.
On the downside, stone coated steel costs more than asphalt shingles due to its premium materials and long lifespan. The weight also requires assessment of your roof’s structure before installation. Overall, stone coated steel delivers outstanding performance, protection, and aesthetics for homeowners seeking a cutting-edge roofing material.
PVC Roofing
An innovative newcomer to residential roofing is PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride plastic. PVC offers homeowners a lightweight, durable, and completely waterproof synthetic roof. It’s an especially wise choice for flat or low-slope roofs that endure a lot of water exposure.
PVC roofing membranes are fused together with hot air into a continuous, seamless sheet covering the entire roof deck. This single-ply design means no seams where water can infiltrate. PVC roofs are also highly impact and puncture resistant while remaining flexible to handle expansion and contraction. Lifespans range from 30-50 years depending on material thickness.
In addition to excellent waterproofing, PVC roofs reflect solar radiation well, reducing cooling costs during summer. Downsides to consider are the high cost of installation and relatively short track record for residential use. But for flat roofs that take a beating from the elements, PVC is a cutting-edge solution worth exploring.
Spray Foam Roofing
Homeowners seeking a seamless, monolithic roofing system should consider spray foam, a coating that both insulates and waterproofs your roof. Polyurethane foam is spray-applied as a liquid then rapidly expands to form a protective layer that adheres to every nook and cranny. The material’s dense cellular structure resists water penetration better than most alternatives.
Spray foam is lightweight, has excellent insulation properties, and molds itself to the roof’s shape. Unlike single-ply membranes, there are no seams that can open up. Typical lifespans range from 15-25 years, after which re-application restores the roof’s protective coating.
On the downside, spray foam application requires specialized equipment and training. Costs are also higher compared to rolled roofing materials. The existing roof deck must be in good shape before application. Overall, for certain roofs prone to water infiltration or insulation issues, spray foam can provide a seamless solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Materials
What is the most popular roofing material?
Asphalt shingles are America’s most common roofing material for homes and low-rise buildings. About 80% of U.S. homes have asphalt shingle roofs due to their affordability, simplicity of installation, and versatility across different architectural styles.
Which roofing material lasts the longest?
Slate and clay tile roofs have the greatest long-term durability, often lasting over 100 years if properly maintained. Metal roofs can also last up to 70+ years due to their resilient construction. Asphalt and wood shingle roofs tend to need replacement more often, usually in the 15-30 year range.
How do I choose the best roofing material for my home?
Consider factors like your climate, roof style/pitch, and budget. Also think about whether longevity, aesthetics, eco-friendliness or insulation are priorities for you. A roofing contractor can assess your structure and needs to help recommend appropriate materials. Don’t just default to asphalt shingles without exploring all your options.
What roofing material is the most eco-friendly?
Metal, tile, slate, and rubber (EPDM) are the most eco-friendly conventional roofing materials thanks to their longevity and recyclability. Solar shingles and PVC are greener synthetics options since they can be recycled. Overall, any long-lasting roof that doesn’t need frequent replacement is your greenest option.
Which roofing materials perform best in cold climates?
Metal, rubber, and plastic-based materials like TPO and PVC are optimal for snowy, cold conditions. Their slippery surfaces prevent snow buildup, while rubber and plastic remain flexible enough to handle freeze-thaw cycles without damage. Asphalt and wood also perform adequately when installed correctly.
How much do different roofing materials usually cost?
Asphalt and wood shingles range from $3-7 per square foot installed. Metal, tile and slate cost $6-15 per square foot. Plastics like TPO and PVC are $8-12 per square foot. Unique options like solar, coated metal, and spray foam can be $15+ per square foot.
Key Takeaways
- Weigh factors like durability, lifespan, cost, aesthetics, climate suitability, and maintenance requirements when selecting a roofing material. Consider both your home’s style and your budget.
- Asphalt shingles are the most common and cost-effective option. But more durable choices like metal and tile may save money in the long run despite higher upfront costs.
- Eco-friendly roofing choices include recycled rubber, solar shingles/tiles, and synthetic plastics like TPO and PVC that can be recycled after use.
- Premium materials like slate, clay tile, and copper offer unparalleled longevity, natural beauty, and architectural elegance if your budget allows.
- Consult a professional roofer to evaluate your home and recommend the most suitable materials to maximize roof performance and longevity.