Your home is more than just a place to rest your head—it’s a sanctuary, a reflection of your style, and an investment worth protecting. So when it comes to ensuring the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your abode, choosing the right roofing material is a huge decision.
From classic elegance to modern innovation, there’s a wide array of roofing options on the market today. And with so many choices, how do you choose the best type of roofing for your home?
In this article, we’ll talk about the various types of roofing and go over a few of their unique and shared perks and drawbacks. We’ll also tell you which styles of homes we believe pair best with each kind of roofing material.
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material composed of a base layer of fiberglass or organic felt, coated with asphalt, and covered with mineral granules. These roofs come in a variety of colors, including shades of black, gray, brown, and even vibrant hues like red or blue. The granules on the surface of the shingles give them texture and depth, and they can be speckled or have a uniform coloration.
Pros
They won’t break the bank
Asphalt roofs are one of the most cost-effective roofing options available, due to their low material cost and minimal maintenance requirements. This makes them suitable for a wide range of budgets.
They tolerate harsh weather
These types of roofs are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, wind, and hail. They provide reliable protection against water infiltration and help keep the inside of your home dry.
Cons
They may be loud
No one likes a noisy neighbor. And, unfortunately, when that noisy upstairs neighbor is your own roof, you can’t approach it with peanut butter cookies and ask that it quiet down. While asphalt roofs aren’t exceptionally loud, they do transmit more external noise, such as rainfall or wind, into your home compared to other materials like metal or tile.
They aren’t the friendliest to our environment
Asphalt types of roofing use petroleum-based materials. As a result, the production and disposal of these shingles contribute to carbon emissions and waste. This raises concerns about the environmental impact brought on by asphalt roofs. However, it’s important to note that certain asphalt shingles can be recycled, reducing their environmental footprint.
Types of homes these versatile roofs look great with
Colonial, Victorian, Craftsman, and Farmhouse styles all benefit from the character-boosting qualities of asphalt shingles. Whether you dwell in a Gothic Revival or a Mid-Century modern abode, an asphalt shingle roof can effortlessly blend in and add visual interest to your home.
Clay
Clay roofs are roofing systems made from clay or terracotta tiles. These tiles are formed by shaping and baking clay at high temperatures and have been used for centuries. The tiles come in many shapes and sizes, such as flat, S-shaped, barrel, or interlocking, offering a range of design options.
Pros
They’re sustainable
Clay and terracotta tiles are environmentally-friendly roofing options. That’s because these types of roofing are made from natural materials and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Likewise, clay is a sustainable resource that can be sourced locally, reducing transportation impacts.
They’re tough as nails
Clay roofs are exceptionally durable as they can withstand harsh weather conditions, like heavy rain, hail, and extreme temperatures, without losing their structural integrity. They’re also resistant to fire, rot, and insect damage, adding to their long-term durability.
Cons
They may put a dent in your wallet
Clay tiles are generally more expensive than asphalt shingles or metal roofing options. This is because the cost includes not only the tiles themselves but also the specialized installation techniques and additional structural support.
Types of homes these timeless roofs look great with
Clay roofing types are a perfect match for Mediterranean villas and Spanish Colonial masterpieces, adding Old-World charm. The earthy tones and graceful curves of clay tiles evoke warmth and richness, complementing the stucco walls and arched windows of Spanish Revival homes and the vibrant mosaic tiles of Mediterranean-inspired residences.
Wood
Wood roofs provide a charming, natural aesthetic to homes and come in the form of either shakes or shingles. Shakes are typically hand-split from logs into thick, irregular pieces, while shingles are machine-cut into thinner, more uniform shapes. Both wood shakes and shingles are commonly made from durable wood species such as cedar, redwood, and pine.
Pros
They’re visually pleasing
Wood roofs provide a warm and natural appearance that enhances the visual appeal of a home. The unique texture, patterns, and natural variations in wood grains offer a charming and rustic look.
They’re great insulators
Wood shakes and shingles have natural insulation properties. They can help regulate temperature and reduce heat transfer, which can contribute to energy efficiency.
Cons
They’re a friend to flames
Wood roofs can be highly flammable and, thus, have a higher fire risk compared to fire-resistant materials like metal and asphalt. However, many wood roofs are treated with fire retardants or coatings to improve their fire resistance.
They invite pesky pests
Whether it’s wood shakes or shingles, these types of roofing can attract pests like termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring insects. But regular inspections and treatments can minimize the risk of infestations and damage to the roof.
Types of homes these rustic roofs look great with
Wood roofs add rich warmth and character to homes that beg to be shown off. These charming roofs shouldn’t only be reserved for isolated cabins in the woods. Wood roofing enhances the organic appeal of Craftsman bungalows and the quaint charm of Cape Cod cottages, evoking a timeless and traditional look. Likewise, if you have a modern farmhouse, wood shakes or shingles can blend your home’s timeless aesthetic with cozy comfort.
Metal
A metal roof refers to a complete installation that uses metal materials as its primary component. Metal types of roofing are constructed from various metals, including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc.
Pros
They’re super light
Metal roofing materials are relatively lightweight compared to options like tile or concrete. This can make installation easier and put less stress on the underlying structure.
They last a long time
Metal roofs are known for their exceptional longevity. They can last 40 to 70 years or even longer with proper installation and maintenance.
Cons
They can be a bit pricey
Metal roofing generally has a higher upfront cost compared to some other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles. The cost includes the materials, specialized installation techniques, and potential insulation or underlayment requirements.
They may have dents
While metal roofs are highly durable, some types of metal, like aluminum, can be prone to denting if struck with heavy objects or hail. However, modern metal roofing systems often have protective coatings that improve their resistance to denting.
Types of homes these contemporary roofs look great with
Contemporary and modern homes benefit from the clean lines and minimalist appeal of metal roofs, which create a striking contrast with their sharp angles and geometric shapes. Metal types of roofing also enhance the industrial charm of loft-style homes and add sophistication to traditional houses.
Slate
Slate is a type of metamorphic rock that is split into thin, flat pieces and used as durable roofing tiles. This natural stone material has been used on roofs for centuries and is renowned for its elegance and longevity. Thus, slate roofs are commonly associated with high-end and historic buildings.
Pros
They’re firefighters
Slate roofs are made from non-combustible materials, providing excellent fire resistance. This helps protect the structure and its occupants in the event of a blaze, which adds a layer of safety and peace of mind for homeowners.
They can outlive you
Slate roofing systems are renowned for their longevity. When properly installed and maintained, slate roofs can last for a century or even longer. This longevity surpasses many other roofing materials.
Cons
They’re very heavy
Slate roofs are made from heavy materials, so they require a robust roofing structure capable of supporting the weight of the slate tiles. Thus, this type of roofing may call for reinforcement to the roof structure which can add to the overall cost.
Types of homes these sophisticated roofs look great with
Slate roofs exude timeless elegance and complement various architectural styles. They add regal sophistication to many different kinds of homes, from stately mansions to historic estates. These smooth, natural stone tiles preserve the authenticity and character of historic dwellings, such as Gothic Revival, Victorian, and French Chateau-style homes.
Green
Green roofing involves growing vegetation on the roof surface, providing environmental benefits such as improved insulation, reduced stormwater runoff, and enhanced air quality. These types of roofs can consist of plants, grasses, or even small trees and require specialized installation and maintenance.
Pros
They’re a best friend to the environment
Green roofs are arguably the best roofing to help improve air quality because they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. The vegetation and soil act as natural filters, reducing air pollution and capturing dust and particulate matter.
They boost energy efficiency
These roofing structures offer excellent insulation properties, reducing heat transfer between the building and the environment. They also provide natural thermal insulation, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.
Cons
They can be high-maintenance
Green roofs require ongoing maintenance. Regular irrigation, weeding, pruning, and fertilization are necessary to ensure the health of the plants. And depending on the climate and vegetation type, additional maintenance tasks such as pest control or replacement of damaged plants may be required.
Types of homes these environmentally-friendly roofs look great with
Green roofs pair excellently with modern homes as they provide a stunning visual contrast to clean, minimalist designs. Since green types of roofing are adorned with living plants, they enhance the organic appeal of eco-friendly homes inspired by nature. Whether it’s paired with Earthship dwellings or straw bale houses, green roofing complements the ethos of sustainable living, forging a harmonious connection with the environment.
Synthetic
A synthetic roofing system utilizes artificial materials as a substitute for traditional roofing materials like wood, slate, or tile. Synthetic roofs are designed to mimic the appearance and characteristics of natural materials, while offering additional benefits such as cost-effectiveness and easy installation.
Synthetic types of roofing materials include composite shingles, rubber roofing, and plastic polymers. These materials are engineered to resemble the texture, color, and shape of natural roofing materials.
Pros
They offer versatile designs
Synthetic roofing materials come in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures. Because they mimic the appearance of natural materials, they provide limitless design options to match various architectural styles and preferences.
They’re easy to maintain
Synthetic roofs require minimal upkeep. They don’t require regular sealing, staining, or painting like some natural materials. Basic cleaning and occasional inspections are typically sufficient to keep these roofs in good condition.
Cons
They may not last very long
While synthetic roofing materials are generally durable, they may have a shorter lifespan compared to some natural materials like slate or metal. UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and weathering can affect the longevity of synthetic roofing. Thus, it may not be the best house roofing option if you’re in your forever home and don’t want to deal with a roof replacement in the future.
Types of homes these alternative roofs look great with
Synthetic roofs seamlessly integrate with modern designs, complementing sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics. They also pair well with traditional homes, as they combine modern benefits with classic charm.
Solar
Solar roofs integrate solar panels into the roof, harnessing solar energy to generate electricity for the home. A solar roofing system combines the functionality of a roof with renewable energy production.
Pros
They’re renewable energy advocates
Solar roofing material enables the generation of clean, renewable energy from the sun. By harnessing solar power, buildings and homes can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
They can lower your energy bills
Solar roofs allow homeowners and businesses to generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and potentially lowering energy bills.
Cons
They come with high costs
The initial installation cost of solar roofing can be relatively high, ranging on average from $25,000 to $60,000, depending on the size, complexity, and quality of the roofing system. This cost includes the purchase and installation of solar panels, inverters, wiring, and other necessary equipment.
They’re dependent on sunlight
Solar panels require sunlight to generate electricity, so their performance relies on the availability of sunlight. In areas with limited sunlight, the energy generation may be lower compared to sunnier regions.
Types of homes these cutting-edge roofs look great with
Solar roofs add a futuristic and sustainable appeal to various architectural styles. Modern designs benefit from sleek, integrated solar panels that enhance the forward-thinking aesthetic and create a striking contrast with minimalist facades and large windows. Moreover, solar roofs amplify the clean lines and energy-efficient principles of green architecture, making them compatible with traditional and transitional homes.
Make the best roofing choice for your home
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of slate, the sleek sophistication of metal, or the eco-friendly allure of green roofs, each roofing material brings its unique recipe of style, durability, and functionality.
So take some time to assess the types of roofing we’ve discussed in this article, along with your home’s architecture and your personal taste. Then, make sure to consult with reputable roofing experts to make an informed decision that’ll give you a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting roof.
Your dream home deserves nothing less.
