The roofing materials you choose for your home are designed to protect you and your family. However, a roof also provides a key visual element. If it’s falling apart or looking dull and dingy, it makes your home look more undesirable.

It’s certainly not cheap to replace a roof, but when yours is at the end of its lifespan, it’s a necessary endeavor. Taking a look at the most common roofing materials can help you understand the best options for your home. 

Roofing Materials – Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are absolutely the most popular choice for roofing materials for homes. These are easy to install and can hold up well in the rain. They’re also incredibly affordable. There are 3-tab asphalt shingles which are the most affordable, dimensional asphalt shingles that are a bit thicker, and luxury options that make them look like slate.

When you choose asphalt shingles for your home, they are cost-effective, durable, and easy to maintain. You also have plenty of style and color options. The only downside is that this material has a shorter lifespan than other types.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

If you want to create a rustic aesthetic, go with wood shingles and shakes. There are many colors, patterns, and grains that you’ll love for your home. They’re mostly made of cedar and hold up well to the weather. However, you will want to have them treated with a fire retardant.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are a big investment, but they last between 50 to 100 years. They withstand high winds and are fire-proof. They’re also great for keeping out water. Slate roofing materials create a visually stunning look for your home. They’re more expensive, and you will need to hire an expert as they add a lot of weight to your home, making installation a challenge.  

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has become one of the most popular materials for homes in recent years. It’s more expensive upfront, but it has a lifespan of 80 years. It endures heavy snow and helps with your energy efficiency. They may be noisier when rain or snowfall, but they are easy to maintain, and they can look stunning.

Things to Consider with the Roofing Materials of Your Home

There’s a lot of thought that goes into choosing the best materials for your roof. Style is incredibly important as it should always coordinate with the structure of your home. This doesn’t mean you have to install the same kind of roof as you had before unless you want to do that.

You’ll naturally be concerned about cost of course, and while some roofing materials will cost more, they may mean fewer headaches for you over the years. Definitely think over the pros and cons of each type. Generally, the lighter the materials, the easier they will be to install, though heavier options will last longer.

If you’re wondering where to begin, contacting a roofing contractor is the best place to start. They’ll be able to discuss roofing options with you and help you find the perfect match for your home.