Choosing new roofing material is more than just picking something that’s nice to look at. While from a design perspective, your roof is one of the most important visual elements of your house, it’s even more critical to look at its durability. After all, a roof is no cheap investment, so you want to ensure yours has a long and happy life.
Which roof material should you choose for your home? What factors should you consider? You’ll find all the answers in the article below.
Types of roofing
If you’re wondering what the best roof material is, we’ve got bad news for you. There is no right answer! Right now, there are more options in the marketplace than ever. From affordable asphalt shingles to metal roofs that last nearly a century, every homeowner can find an option that fits their circumstances best. Here is a look at the most popular roof materials and their differences.
Asphalt shingles
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles are a classic. In fact, most homeowners in the US have this exact roofing. That’s not surprising – asphalt shingles have many benefits. They are easy to install and repair and more affordable than other options on the market.
The only downside is their durability. Most asphalt shingles last between 15 and 30 years. If you’re looking for a more long-lasting option, choose one of the higher-end products, like architectural asphalt shingles.
Wood roofing
If you’re looking for something more stylish than asphalt shingles, a good choice is wood roofing. Nowadays, wood shakes and shingles are available in many different colors and grains, making it easy to match them to your home’s aesthetic.
What’s great about this type of roofing is that it’s usually made from cedar, which makes it energy-efficient and wind-resistant. However, keep in mind that wood roofs are more susceptible to moisture, so they may not be the best option for regions with frequent precipitation.
Metal roofing
These past years, metal roofs have become all the rage. Usually made from steel, copper, aluminum, or tin, these roofs can sometimes have a lifespan that’s even longer than 80 years. Impressive, isn’t it? Thanks to the material’s high durability, it’s a popular choice for homes in harsh winter climates.
Generally, metal roofs are among the most expensive roofing materials (with higher installation costs than other options), but you can expect the investment to pay off with time.
Slate
Another great and durable roof material is slate. Like metal, it’s more expensive than other options (mainly due to high production costs and the material’s heaviness), however, with proper maintenance, it should last a lifetime. What’s great about slate roofs is that they are not only durable but also pleasing to the eyes. With its high fire resistance, slate is an excellent option for homes in warmer climates.
Solar roofs
Did you know there are currently nearly four million American households that generate their own power using solar energy? That’s right. Solar energy is currently a hot topic, and for good reason. If you want to save money on your monthly utility bills, installing a solar roof is one of the best ways to do it. Although the initial cost is high, the good news is that almost no maintenance is required afterward.
Currently, Tesla offers some of the best solar shingles on the market. If you’re living in a sunny climate, it might be worth looking into them! However, if your home is surrounded by many sun-blocking objects, it may be better to choose a different option.
So, what is the best roof material?
As you can see, each roof material has its own advantages and disadvantages. It all depends on what you need. Homeowners on a budget can opt for asphalt shingles, while those in areas prone to extreme weather will be better off with metal roofing. If you’re looking for a premium appearance and high durability, our favorite is slate. However, like metal, it can be quite costly, which makes it less attractive to most homeowners.
If you’re thinking about investing in renewable energy, solar tiles can be a fantastic two-in-one solution. While this type of roof has higher upfront costs, it also offers long-term energy savings. Curious to learn more? Check out our Tesla Solar Roof guide and get a free instant estimate using our solar calculator.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 01/14/2025