To protect their homes, the vast majority of Americans opt for asphalt shingles since they are widely available, inexpensive, and flexible. Slate and clay tiles are the most long-lasting options, but they are also more expensive than other options like metal or wood. Green roofs and solar shingles, two of the most functional but also pricier roofing options, are among the most expensive.
One of the best and most lucrative investments you can make in your home is to have the roof replaced. If you need a new roof installed on your home, it is important to select a roofing material and contractor that are appropriate for your location, climate, and budget.
Shingles (Asphalt, Fiberglass, Composite)
Composite asphalt shingles are used on nearly 90% of American homes due to their low cost, long lifespan, and simple installation. Installation of asphalt shingles costs only $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot, or around $8,000 total. They have a 30-year lifespan and can be reused as construction material.
Colors including gray, brown, red, green, and blue are produced by combining fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral composite. However, prolonged contact with sunlight will cause their hue to fade. Whether you go with architectural shingles or the more common three-tab shingles, the visual effects will be different.
- Affordable
- Low-maintenance
- Easy to find
- Works well in most climates
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Recyclable
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs look and feel contemporary, although they were really first used in the 1800s. Aluminum and zinc, two of the most common metals used for roofing, remain attractive options because of their low cost, portability, simple maintenance, and beautiful aesthetics even after years of use. Depending on the design and material, they can last up to 80 years and cost anything from $6 to $14 per square foot.
Shingles and “standing seam” sheets (or panels) are the two most common varieties. Sealants can also be applied to the metal before it is used. Metal roofs are available in many different colors, and you can even paint some of the styles yourself.
- Low-maintenance
- Durable
- Can mimic slate, asphalt, or wood
- Variety of colors
- Lightweight
- Recyclable
Wood Roofing
Cape Cod cottages, cozy Craftsman, and stately Tudors all look great with wood roofs. They’re born a sandy brown and age to a silvery gray. Although wood roofs can last for half a century in arid regions, they must be maintained to prevent fires in states like California. Roofing made of wood degrades more rapidly in wet areas, such as those found on the East Coast.
Insects are repelled by the natural oils in cedar, redwood, and pine, making them popular construction materials. The most common type of roof is cedar shake, which costs from $5.50 to $7.00 per square foot.
- Curb appeal
- Natural material
Slate Roofing
Slate is one of the most long-lasting options for roofs, and it costs about the same as clay tiles per square foot (between $9 and $20). There is a 50-200 year lifespan for this substance. It can withstand the heat and flames of a fire, and it can withstand the cold and wind of winter, as well as the impact of hail and small branches.
Natural, quarried slate is available, as are synthetic options such as fiber cement slate and bituminous designs. In many ways, synthetic slate is preferable to genuine slate because of its lower cost.
- Long lifespan
- Low-maintenance
- Durable
- Colors include gray, blue, green, brown, and red
Rolled Roofing
Roll roofing is one of the most cost-effective options, making it a favorite among DIYers and construction crews. The whole price of the installation, including all supplies and labor, is reasonable. This rolled material, which can be readily hammered into place, is ideal for roofs with a reduced slope. But you shouldn’t try to pound it onto a flat roof. This can lead to water leaks.
- Good for low-slope roofs
- Does not require an underlayment
