The most popular types of roofing materials include asphalt, wood shakes, metal, slate, or clay.  The cost of roofing types directly correlates to the durability and longevity of the materials.  Several factors to consider are home design, regional weather conditions, maintenance required, and product quality.  The National Association of Home Builders reports most roofing products are designed to last several decades under normal weather conditions.

 

Most Popular Types of Roofing

 

Asphalt

Asphalt shingles last about 20 to 50 years under warranty depending on the premium paid. These shingles can be reinforced with fiberglass or organic materials without changing appearance. The higher cost product is worth the longevity.  Architectural asphalt will last about 30 years on average.  Prices range from $70 – $120 a square. Because asphalt shingles are easy to install and economical, it has become the most common roofing material in the United States.

 

Wood Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes have a target longevity of 30 to 50 years in moderate weather.  Wood is valued for the appearance as it ages into a pearlescent grey.  Wood shakes are handmade and rustic, wood shingles are machine cut and uniform.  If the home is in a fire -prone zone, look for Class A fire-rated products treated with fire-resistant coating.  In damp climates, like beach communities, the wood shingles and shakes can mold, split, or rot.   Most wood shingles are made from cedar, redwood, or southern pine.  Wood shakes pair well with bungalows, cottage, Cape Cod, Craftsman, or Tudor-style homes.  Prices range from $100 to $150 a square and will last 30 years.

 

Metal

Metal roofing will last 40 to 80 years and are resistant to extreme weather conditions.  Metal roofs are durable and will last longer than asphalt or wood. Constructed from aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or zinc, it is available in panels or shingles.  Metal roofs are sleek, lightweight, and recyclable.  Metal roofs have high solar reflectance and can be used for rainwater recycling.  The average cost of a metal roof is $100 to $800 a square.  Square footage, fasteners, and the pitch of the roof will add to cost.  Metal is loud to live beneath.  Metal is used on sheds, barns, cabins, and contemporary homes.

 

Slate

Slate roofs offer beauty and elegance with a color range from black, green, red, and purple. Lasting over 100 years, slate is fire-resistant, durable, and sustainable.  Since slate can be recycled, reclaimed slate is as expensive as new.  Slate is heavy and requires extra framing by professional installers.  Slate is attractive on Colonial, European, and French chateau homes.  Prices start at $600 a square and last over 100 years.

 

Synthetic Slate

Synthetic slate is durable, easier to install, and much less expensive than authentic slate.  Synthetic slate is not as fragile or heavy as the natural slate. Made from plastics, polymers, or resins some of the products absorb water so be sure to inspect the manufacturer’s warranty.  Synthetic slate is attractive on Colonial, European, and French chateau homes, but the quality varies depending on the manufacturer.  Prices start at $300 a square and are warrantied up to 50 years.

 

Clay or Concrete Tiles

Clay or concrete tiles add texture to a roof.  Genuine flat, ribbed, or scalloped clay tiles are durable, heavy and must be installed by a professional.  Concrete tiles are versatile and less expensive than clay, but they weight more requiring additional framing.  Both are non-combustible and energy efficient.  Clay and concrete tiles work with Mission, Mediterranean, Southwestern, and Spanish style homes.  Prices start at $300 a square and will last 50 years with proper maintenance.

Most Popular Types of Roofing

And the winner is… Asphalt shingles remain far and away the most popular choice because they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install.  In CR’s roofing tests, we’ve found that some shingles perform better overall than others that cost more.  Some provide a beautifully layered look or come in huge arrays of colors.

 

Contact Us

Family-owned and operated, Deegan Roofing Company has been installing and servicing residential and commercial roofing customers in the New Jersey area for over 30 years.  If you are concerned about your roof surviving the upcoming winter weather or are currently experiencing roofing problems, it’s never too late to contact Deegan Roofing to get your roof inspected before winter.  Website https://www.deeganroofing.com/  Address345 Terrill Rd, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 HoursOpen 8:30 AM ⋅ Closes 5:30 PM

 

Phone(908) 322-6405

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