Roofing Materials

Someday, you'll have to replace your roof, and choosing the right material can be tough. This information will help you decide. Be aware that building codes often govern or limit roofing material choices.

 

Asphalt roofs are exceptionally versatile and are "architecturally correct" in almost every region of the country for nearly all kinds of houses. Asphalt is one of the most common roofing materials and comes in a variety of colors.

 

Wood shakes and shingles are generally made of cedar, and hark back to a time before asphalt shingles were available. Wood roofs are commonly used on old houses, but they've gained recent popularity on new homes built in traditional styles. Wood has an attractive rustic appearance and is a natural insulator.

 

Clay tile is common on Southwestern architecture and is often featured in styles derived from traditional Spanish and Italian designs.

 

Slate was used in the nation's early years, mostly near the East Coast where the stone is quarried. It rarely makes sense to replace a roof with slate unless historical authenticity is critical. Instead, consider composites made from stone and concrete.

 

Metal is used for many roof types. Certain varieties of metal roofs were used on Victorian-era houses, and custom builders sometimes apply metal roofing to contemporary home designs. Metal roofs are used for utilitarian reasons, too, such as protection from strong winds and excessive moisture. Standing-seam steel is among the most popular metal roofing options. Metal can be painted any color.

Fiber cement is durable and available in a variety of textures and colors. Fiber cement makes special sense near oceans, where building materials must withstand salt air and winds, and in particularly hot, humid climates. It is heavy and can be difficult to repair.

Ease of installation and repair. Asphalt, wood, and metal roofing materials are easy to install, comparatively lightweight, and fairly easy to repair. Wood must be laid over open planks. Clay, slate, and fiber cement are heavy, therefore requiring strong supports, and they are difficult to install and repair.

Longevity. A new asphalt roof should last 12 to 25 years, which is similar to the expected lifespan of cedar shingles. Wood shakes last longer, between 25 and 75 years. A fiber cement roof should be expected to last 20 to 30 years. Steel roofing materials should last 20 to 50 years, clay tile about 50 years, and slate between 50 and 100 years.