What Are the Different Types of Roofing Materials for Homes?

There are several different types of roofing materials for homes. You can check out our guide here to learn more about the common kinds.

If you need to replace your roof, you’re looking at $10,000 or more in costs. So it’s worth choosing well.

There are many different types of roofing available. Pick the option that suits your home and your budget.

From shingles to metal to tile, installing a new roof can increase the value of your home and even decrease your heating and cooling costs.

Read on to learn more about the most common types of roofing material on the market today.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the US. They are relatively cheap to install. But they don’t last as long as some other roofing materials.

Asphalt shingles are so popular because they come in a wide range of styles and colors. They’re rugged so they can be walked on if needed. They can even be installed by a DIY homeowner.

Compare asphalt to metal roofing in this guide from Anderson Roofing.

Metal Roofing

The use of metal for roof material is increasing rapidly in the US in recent years. Metal roofing is eco-friendly. It’s also available in a variety of styles and colors that can mimic other types of materials.

A metal roof can last as long as 100 years. Most metal roofs come with a guarantee of between 30 and 50 years. On the downside, it can get dented and it can be noisier than other roof materials.

Roof Tiles

Another entry in the list of different types of roofing is roof tiles. They are long-lasting and resistant to pests and fire.

Modern roof tiles are made of three different things. Choose from clay, concrete, and fiber cement. Clay tiles are the most attractive but are the easiest to break if you walk on them.

You can get tiles in a wide variety of colors and styles, but there are fewer options than asphalt or metal. They are heavy, so you need a reinforced roof. They are also quite expensive to install.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are available in natural or composite materials. If you put slate tiles on your roof, you are picking the most durable and long-lasting option on the market.

They require a reinforced roof structure because of their weight. But they will last for a lifetime and require almost no maintenance. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of your roof, choose natural slate because it will never need to be replaced.

Wood Shingles or Shakes

Choose from shingles or shakes. Shingles are uniform in appearance, while shakes are hand-cut and look more rustic.

Wood shakes and shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles but they last 5 to 10 years longer. You also get a better insulation rating with wood than with asphalt.

Wood shingles are made from salvaged trees. If you have to replace the shakes or shingles, they can be recycled too.

Wood roofing materials require a fair amount of maintenance. You’ll need to do regular cleaning to stop moss or algae building up on your roof.

Different Types of Roofing to Suit Your Budget and Home

The list here shows the 5 most common different types of roofing. Each of these materials lasts well and looks great on your house. Choose the option that suits your house style and that fits your budget.

Don’t forget about maintenance and repair. Cheaper asphalt shingles are easy to install and look good, but won’t last as long as slate or metal.

We want your home to look great. It’s why we share our tips and ideas. S, if you’re thinking about updating or remodeling or repairing your home, check out our website for handy tricks and good advice.