Different Types of Residential Roofs with Pictures

Roofs are an integral part of any house, providing both practical and aesthetic benefits. If you’re thinking about updating your roof, deciding which material to use is of utmost importance. The cost, maintenance work, energy-efficiency, and aesthetics of your home all come into play when deciding which roofing material to use.

10 Most Common Roofing Materials

Roofs come in a lot off different types of materials; choosing the right one can be a bit daunting. However, by speaking with a roofing specialist you should be able to determine which type of roof will work best for your specific needs — whether it be for aesthetics, durability, or affordability.

#1 Metal

Metal roofing comes in a wider range of products, including steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum each of which have their own unique characteristics. Generally speaking, metal roofs are an environmentally-friendly, relatively lightweight and highly durable choice for roofing.

Copper, which has been used for hundreds of years, is probably the most aesthetically pleasing of the metals, but it’s typically also the most expensive choice. Aluminum can be a wonderful option for coastal regions because of its higher resistance to salt corrosion than other types of metal roofs. Although it’s a relative enigma in the U.S., zinc is widely used for residential roofing in Europe and is prized for its self-healing properties.

Metal roofing requires a larger initial investment than cheaper roofing materials, though for many this is balanced out by the durability and relatively low maintenance costs. Metal roofing is also noisy, can be slippery to walk on, and can dent easily from impact with objects of significant weight and/or velocity.

#2 Galvanized Steel

A subcategory of metal roofing, galvanized steel is created by applying a protective zinc coating. Galvanized steel does not warp, shrink, twist or deform, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable and sustainable roofing option. Like other metal roofing materials, galvanized steel roofs tend to be more expensive up front, but they are also very energy-efficient and sustainable.

Although galvanized steel is durable, it doesn’t have the same longevity as some other metals like copper. It is also challenging to install, generally requiring a professional, and is slightly heavier at more roughly one pound per square foot.

#3 Asphalt

Although the number of roofs with asphalt shingles in the U.S. is shrinking, they are still one of the most popular roofing materials on the market. There are two types of asphalt shingles, the lightweight and tear-resistant fiberglass and heavier, but more stable organic shingles. Asphalt shingles owe their popularity to an easy installation process and highly economical price point. Shingles can be found in a broad selection of colors and offer a distinctive look that works with a variety of architectural styles, including traditional suburban styles.

Despite being one of the cheaper options, asphalt lacks the longevity and insulation benefits of other roofing materials. In addition, asphalt shingles aren’t suitable for aggressive environments, such as areas with high winds or large temperature variations. They are also among the least eco-friendly roofing materials on the market.

#4 Polycarbonate

A strong and resilient thermoplastic material, polycarbonate is a durable and lightweight material suitable for a wide variety of environments. Polycarbonate is a particularly good option for awnings and sunroom roofing as the panels are resistant to temperature extremes as well as snow, rain, and impact. Over all polycarbonate is a high-quality and affordable option for roofing.

There are, of course, a few downsides. Polycarbonate is not scratch resistant and may dent if it’s not taken care of.

#5 Polyethylene

The most popular plastic in the world, polyethylene is a highly versatile material used for everything from grocery bags and shampoo bottles to roofs. Plastic roofing can mimic the look of traditional materials like wood, clay or slate but weighs far less. The lower weight makes it much easier to transport, lift and install. Plastic roofing is also strong and can take extreme temperature changes and can be walked on without worrying about damage.

#6 Steel

Steel roofs are typically made of galvanized steel, galvalume steel, or stone-coated steel. Like other metal roofs, the benefits of steel come down to weight and durability. Steel’s inherent strength makes it suitable for areas with high winds, a high degree of temperature variation, and even small earthquakes. Steel roofs can also be aesthetically pleasing and are available in a wide variety of colors.

While the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, steel roofs can be more expensive than traditional materials. However, if you are looking for a metal roof, steel is one of the more affordable metal choices.

#7 Concrete

Concrete roof tiles are a popular option for those looking for clay tile style at a fraction of the cost. Fire-resistant and highly durable, well-made concrete tiles will last anywhere from 30 to 50 years and offer many of the same benefits as clay tiles. Concrete roof tiles don’t corrode, have very little rain noise, and are easy to replace a tile in a run.

The biggest drawback of concrete, naturally, is the weight. Concrete roofs require increased structural support and the tiles may crack over time. The transportation cost is also high and there is a limited recycling possibility.

#8 Slate

Best suited for Colonial, European, and French chateau-inspired homes, slate offers a distinctive beauty and elegance. Available in shades of green, red, black, gray, and purple, slate is highly durable, fire-resistant, and a sustainable roofing choice.

Although slate can hold up for half a century or more, the initial costs are high compared to other roofing materials. Slate is not only expensive and heavy, but it also requires extra framing as well as installation by a professional.

#9 Clay

A hallmark of Spanish and Mediterranean style homes, clay tiles have been a go-to roofing material choice for years. Prized for their aesthetic appeal and longevity, clay tiles look amazing when they’re new, can stand up to heavy rains and other extreme weather, and require relatively little maintenance. Clay roofs also offer good insulation, keeping it cool in summer and warmer in winter.

The largest drawback to clay roof tiles is, of course, the weight meaning the tiles require extra roof support before installation. This raises the cost of replacing tiles, which in and of themselves are already on the pricier side.

#10 Wood

Wood shingles and shakes have been roofing staples for hundreds of years and for good reason. Still a very popular choice for many homeowners, wooden roofs go well with rustic aesthetics, have a long lifespan, and are relatively easy to repair. Wood roofs are also generally energy-efficient, provide natural insulation, and are more environmentally friendly than petroleum-based products.

If you live in an area prone to fire, wood is obviously not a good choice, though there are wood-shingles with a fire-resistant coating. In wet climates, wood shingle roofs may mold, split, or rot.

Conclusion

Hopefully, I was able to help you with making up your mind when it comes to choosing a roof type. But I highly encourage you to reach out to more than one local roofer in your area and ask their opinions. Ask them to provide quotes for each roof type you like (or that they recommend).