The options for roofing materials go far beyond just asphalt shingles. Although those are the most commonly used roofing type in America, homeowners have so many options today, including
- Metal roofs
- Cedar shakes
- Slate roofs
With such a wide variety of options, homeowners can get even more out of their investment with stronger, longer-lasting roofing materials that also boost curb appeal and the value of their home. When it comes time to replace your roof, knowing your options can ensure you get the most out of your investment.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
A new roof is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home, so you’ll want not only to choose one that you like but one that meets your specific needs and will last for years to come. Some tell-tale signs can indicate that the time is now to replace your roof.
🚨 If you notice any of the following signs, contact your contractor for an inspection:
- Your roof has reached its expected lifespan or is older than 15 years. 👴🏼
- There are signs of leaks in your house (water stains on the ceiling or wall). 💧
- Shingles are loose, curling, or cracked. 🔨
- You notice sagging or large spots of discoloration on the roof. 🛖
- You have consistently high energy bills. 📈
- Ice dams come back every winter. ❄️
- You have moss, mold, or fungi growth on your roof’s interior or exterior. 🌱
- Your gutters, flashing, or pipe boots have recurrent issues. ⚒️
10 Types of Roofing Materials
No matter the reasoning, replacing your roof can be an excellent investment in your home. While repairs can fix the issue at hand, they can often just buy time until the inevitable. Consider replacing your roof with some of the best, most commonly used materials below.
1) Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material used today, and rightfully so. They are an affordable, durable, and environmentally friendly option that can be installed in a day and require very low maintenance.
Benefits of asphalt shingles include:
- Fit a variety of roof shapes, sizes, and pitches
- Many color options and styles
- Easy to install and maintain
- Cost-effective
- Energy-efficient
- Stands up to high winds and hail
- Algae protection
- Easy to repair and replace
- Lasts 15-20 years
2) Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes are beautiful wooden shingles that can last 25-40 years with proper maintenance. Cedar shakes are naturally resistant to insects and rot. The best thing about these shingles is their beauty, lifespan, and affordability.
Cedar shakes come in various styles, shapes, and colors that can fit any style, from rustic to traditional or modern. They are also available as smooth or textured finishes depending on the look you’re going for.
Other benefits of cedar shakes include:
- Long-lasting (24-40) years
- Naturally resistant to insects and rot
- Naturally age to a grayish hue
- Can be retreated for extra protection
- Cost-effective
- Durable
3) Metal Roofing
For a long time, metal roofing was used strictly for barns, sheds, or similar structures. Metal panels are easy to replace, are highly durable, and are well insulating. But this style of metal roofing is also beneficial to residential homes and continues to grow in popularity.
Benefits of metal roofing:
- Low-maintenance
- Resistant to harsh weather and climates
- Energy efficient
- Insulates against sound and temperature
- Gives a modern and sleek look to any home or structure
4) Metal Shingles
If metal panels aren’t your style, homeowners now have endless options for both colors and styles when it comes to metal shingles. Metal shingles work great for any style of home, but with the added durability of metal panels. Metal shingles will be more costly than standing seam panels, but their benefits include:
- More color and style options
- Energy-efficient
- Environmentally friendly
- Highly resistant to wind and fire
- Lightweight
5) Stone Coated Steel
Stone-coated steel is another type of metal roof, but with a unique stone finish. The steel is coated with an acrylic resin and then covered in crushed stone, limestone, or slate. These shingles can be costly depending on the materials used to manufacture them, but there are various benefits of using this type of roof, such as:
- Durability and longevity (50+ years)
- Low maintenance
- Withstand wind, hail, and large debris
- Beautiful aesthetic appeal
- Fireproof
- Thermal insulation
6) Slate
Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last well over 100 years with proper maintenance. Natural slate stone can withstand just about anything that comes its way, making it an excellent investment for any home or structure that will stay standing for the next 100+ years. Their longevity is the main benefit, but slate roofs also:
- Stand up to rain, hail, ice, fire, and wind
- Are naturally resistant against insects or termites
- Little-to-no maintenance
- Cost-effective when properly installed
7) Slate Composite
Slate roofs can be costly and difficult to install on many homes, so the composite slate is an ideal second option. Slate composite looks like the real thing but is made of various materials such as rubber to give the same appeal without the hefty price tag.
Slate composite shingles are a great option because:
- They are more affordable than slate
- Last 50-60+ years
- Don’t require reinforcements like heavy slate tiles
- Won’t wear down or crack easily like natural slate
8) Clay Tile
Clay tiles have been a popular roofing choice for many homes and structures throughout history. Clay tiles are heavy, durable, and can withstand just about anything that comes their way. Their affordability is also an attractive benefit, especially when considering their long lifespan of 60-100 years or more with proper care.
Some benefits of clay tile roofs include:
- Long lifespan
- Resistant to rain, fire, wind, and hail
- Environmentally friendly and recyclable
- Work great in dry desert climates
- Keep heat outside and the cool air in
9) Concrete Tile
Concrete tiles are another solid option for homeowners who like the tiled look. Concrete tiles are made of a mixture of sand, cement, and water molded under high heat and pressure. Concrete tiles are solid and can last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Here are some of the significant advantages to concrete tile:
- More affordable than slate or clay tiles
- High impact resistance
- Can be formed into many shapes and sizes
- Eco-friendly option
- Very minimal maintenance
- Long lifespan
- Wind and fire-resistant
10) Solar Tiles
Lastly, solar tiles are a beautiful alternative to solar panels and other premium shingle types. Solar tiles are one of the most expensive options for a new roof, but the long-term benefits are massive.
Although solar panels can be adjusted to get the best angle for the sun, shingles stay put, and you can get excellent efficiency out of them with an entire roof of solar shingles.
Other benefits to installing solar tiles on your roof include:
- Great ROI
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Save on energy bills
- They are very modern
- Easy to maintain
- Stand out from your neighbors
Choosing the Right Contractor for the Job
Roofing is not an easy job, and it’s best left to the experts. It can be tempting to save money by hiring a roofer who doesn’t have much experience, but this will most likely lead to expensive repairs later on. So choose a reputable contractor like Durashield.
We’re trained in premium installation and repairs and ensure the job gets done right the first time. Reach out today for an estimate and to get your questions answered.