Roofing Materials Guide
Compare materials, costs, and lifespans to choose the perfect roof for your home
Get Material RecommendationsChoose the Right Material for Your Home
Each roofing material has unique benefits, costs, and ideal applications. Compare options below.
Asphalt Shingles
The most common roofing material in America. Available in 3-tab and architectural styles.
Budget-conscious homeowners, most residential applications
- Affordable
- Easy installation
- Many colors
- Widely available
- • Shorter lifespan
- • Less durable in extreme weather
- • Not as eco-friendly
Metal Roofing
Standing seam, corrugated, or metal shingles. Extremely durable and energy-efficient.
Long-term investment, energy savings, modern aesthetics
- Very long lifespan
- Fire resistant
- Energy efficient
- Low maintenance
- • Higher upfront cost
- • Can be noisy in rain
- • Denting possible
Tile Roofing
Clay or concrete tiles. Traditional Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial style.
Historic homes, Spanish/Mediterranean architecture, hot climates
- Extremely durable
- Fire resistant
- Energy efficient
- Beautiful aesthetics
- • Very heavy (structure check needed)
- • Expensive
- • Fragile when walked on
Slate Roofing
Natural stone roofing. The ultimate in durability and prestige.
Historic properties, luxury homes, ultimate longevity
- Can last 100+ years
- Beautiful natural material
- Fire resistant
- Low maintenance
- • Very expensive
- • Extremely heavy
- • Specialized installation required
Flat Roofing
EPDM, TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen. Common for commercial and modern residential.
Commercial buildings, modern architecture, rooftop decks
- Cost-effective
- Easy maintenance access
- Rooftop space
- Energy efficient options
- • Drainage critical
- • More maintenance
- • Shorter lifespan than pitched
Material Comparison
| Material | Cost/Sq | Lifespan | Durability | Maintenance | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $90-$250 | 15-30 yrs | Good | Low | 60-70% |
| Metal Roofing | $400-$800 | 40-70 yrs | Excellent | Very Low | 85-95% |
| Tile Roofing | $600-$1,200 | 50-100 yrs | Excellent | Low | 70-80% |
| Slate Roofing | $1,000-$2,000 | 75-200 yrs | Outstanding | Very Low | 90-100% |
| Flat Roofing | $250-$600 | 15-30 yrs | Good | Medium | 65-75% |
* Cost per square (100 sq ft installed). ROI based on home value recouped at resale.
Factors to Consider
Budget
Consider both upfront costs and long-term value. Cheaper materials may need replacement sooner, while premium materials last decades.
Climate
Some materials perform better in specific climates. Metal excels in fire-prone areas, tile in hot climates, slate in freeze-thaw regions.
Home Style
Match your roof to your home architecture. Traditional homes suit asphalt or slate, Spanish styles look best with tile, modern homes can use metal.
Weight
Tile and slate are very heavy and may require structural reinforcement. Consult a professional before choosing heavy materials for older homes.
Energy Efficiency
Light-colored metal and tile reflect heat, reducing cooling costs. Some materials qualify for energy efficiency tax credits.
Local Regulations
Some areas restrict materials due to fire codes, wind ratings, or HOA rules. Check local requirements before deciding.
Resale Value
Quality roofing materials improve home value. Metal and slate offer the best ROI, but even asphalt provides good returns.
Warranty
Longer warranties often indicate better quality. Understand what's covered—materials only or installation too?
Not Sure Which Material is Right?
Our roofing experts will help you choose the best material for your home, climate, and budget