There are many roofing materials you can choose from when preparing to replace your roof. From wood, clay, and asphalt to metal, slate, and composite, each material offers its own benefit and appeal. However, the hardest decision may be choosing between longevity and cost. We’ve compared and contrasted the most common roofing materials to help you choose the right style of roof to suit your taste and budget.
Differences of Common Roofing Materials
Asphalt – The most common and affordable type of roofing material, asphalt shingles have an average lifespan of 20 years. Also known as “composition shingles,” asphalt roofing is easy for do-it-yourself roofers to install and are available in many color options.
Wood – Traditional wood shingles can last around 25 to 30 years before rot and mildew necessitate replacement. Made from pine, cedar, cypress, and redwood, wood roofing provides homes a more rustic, textured aesthetic — at twice the price of asphalt. Unfortunately, the building codes of some cities have banned wooden roofs because of fire hazard.
Metal – Metal roofing is not only rain and fire resistant, but it can also protect a home from hurricane-force winds of up to 140-mph. Available in sheeting and tiles made of steel, aluminum, or copper, metal roofs offer long-lasting strength and durability for up to 50 years. If you’re willing to pay extra for it, lightweight metal materials can be molded to resemble tile or coated with an asphalt texture to look like stone shingles in order to provide a more natural aesthetic.
Clay and Concrete – Tile roofs made from clay or concrete are fireproof, durable, and can last anywhere between 50 to 100 years. Popular with Spanish and Tuscan-inspired roofs, clay and concrete tile offer a variety of shapes, colors, and designs. While clay tiles cost more than concrete, they are both expensive options that range nearly three times the price of asphalt shingles.
Slate – Heavy and durable, slate roofing is made of actual stone that can last for over 100 years. However, with increased longevity comes increased cost as slate is the most expensive roofing material at nearly 20 times the price of asphalt. Slate roofs are available in several colors and can protect homes from fire and extreme weather.
Synthetic Composite – Made from a combination of synthetic and recyclable materials, composite roofing is designed to offer low-cost, lightweight replications of tile and slate roofing. The inexpensive alternative’s components include plastic, rubber, fiberglass, and fiber cement. For guaranteed longevity, synthetic composite roofing is often warrantied for up to 50 years.
Need Help Choosing Your Next Roof?
As with any purchase, you pay for what you get. To help you get the best return on your investment, consult the experts at Roof Commander when deciding on the materials for your next roof. Experienced in all types of roof installation, repair, and maintenance, we are here to help you with your specific roofing needs. Contact us today at 352-459-7599 to get a quote.