Your roof is your home’s first defense against the elements. It gets rained on, hailed on, snowed on, baked in the sun, and battered by the wind.
This means it has a short lifespan, at least compared to the other integral aspects of your home. Most roofs last around 30 years, but it can be more or less depending on the climate.
If you’re considering replacing your roof, check out the different roof shingle materials below.
Asphalt Shingles
The gray-black shingles you see on most roofs in middle-income neighborhoods are likely asphalt shingles. They’re the most popular of all roof shingles and last a long time.
These shingles are affordable and come in many colors, with an average roof-life expectancy of around 30 years. You can expect to spend an average of $250 per 100 sq feet of roof with this type. The higher the quality of the tiles you buy, the longer they’ll last. Roofing is an industry where price indicates value.
If you opt for organic base options, your roof may not last as long as conventional tiles. Organic asphalt bases are not recommended for areas with high fire risks, such as California, Colorado, and other dry climates.
Metal Shingle Roofing
If you live in a home with a flatter roof style or somewhere dry, you may want to look into a metal roof. They’re inexpensive, can last up to forty or fifty years in a suitable climate — and look chic, especially in dark colors.
If it’s a suitable climate and you have a good installer, you could boost your home’s resale value by investing in a metal roof. You’ll also get a return on your investment in terms of energy efficiency since certain metal roofs can reflect sunlight and help keep your home cool.
The only drawbacks of a metal roof are that they erode quickly in wetter climates. And depending on the insulation in your attic, they can lead to loud rain sounds.
Wood or Shake Shingles Roofing Materials
If you’re looking for a very traditional roof type, as in historical, you’ll love wood roofing materials. Wood roofs are gorgeous but can be expensive. In terms of practicality, wood tiles are significantly heavier than asphalt, which means they’re not a good fit for just any home.
Before you purchase any shingles, you need to have a contractor or roofer sign off that your structure can handle the added weight of a wood roof.
Wood roofs have a lower life expectancy than other roof types, especially in humid climates. Talk to a professional about your desire for wood roof shingles and ask them to walk you through the details.
Tile Roof Shingle Materials
The only thing heavier than a wood roof is a tile or stone one. Even fewer structures can handle a tile or stone roof, so the same rules apply.
Traditionally, tile roofs are terracotta, which ages beautifully and give your home a Tuscan feel.
Replacing Your Roof Shingles
When you’re looking at getting a new roof, be sure to get estimates from at least two to three different companies. Many will price match, and you may find that company A has a better deal on roof shingle materials than company C.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on what materials roof shingles are made of. Check out our blog for more helpful content!
