9 Best Types Of Roofs
Learn about roof materials, styles, designs, pros/cons, and more. When choosing from the nine best roof types for your residential or commercial property, this guide covers the advantages and disadvantages of the most common roofing systems!
Are you researching roof types, their commonality, durability, longevity, affordability, and climate capabilities? You can compare quotes from roofers in your area and find everything you need to know about roofing options. Here are the nine best roofing types.
9 Types of Roofing Materials
We begin with the basics by looking at the best types of roofing on the market.
1-Metal Roofing
Any type of metal roofing is available in various vertice panels and shingle patterns, often used in tile, shake, and slate. Metal roofing lasts about 60 years.
PROS
- Extremely durable
- Last Longer
- Resits high winds
- Fire resistant
CONS
- Can cost 2x-3x more
- Expands
- Noisy
It excels at mobilizing snow and rain and preventing dampened roofing. It doesn’t burn and can resist great winds. Not to mention that it is easily installed and very lightweight. However, during a rainstorm or hail – it can get pretty loud. But some people enjoy the sound, so keep it in mind. Depending on the type of metal used, it can be very affordable as corrosion susceptibility varies on each type of metal.
2-Stone-Coated Steel
A stone-coated steel roofing mimics shingles, clay, or slate, as it has an interlocking panel mechanism. It is resistant to rain, high winds, and other weather conditions. In addition to this, it is pretty economical and won’t break your budget. If you live in a wet, windy, or wildfire-prone area – stone-coated steel roofing comes with a lifetime warranty, making sure you get the best service possible.
PROS
- Built to last
- Won’t break, split, or crack
- Resistant to rain, snow, and wind uplift
- Energy efficient
- Low maintenance
CONS
- Cost more
- Loud (rain, hail, etc.)
However, you will rarely get to use the warranty.
3-Solar Tile Roofs
Nowadays, solar tiles are also considered a type of roofing. An advanced solar collector can be implemented with your current shingles and help generate over 1 kilowatt of energy per 100 square feet.
PROS
- Alternative to solar panels
- Sustainable
- Can produce 4 KW of power capacity
CONS
- Must remove part of the existing roof to install
- More expensive
Brilliant for a sunny regional area where a homeowner association does not allow regular solar panels. However, being from the realm of both worlds – they are less affordable than a typical solar option.
4-Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle is one, if not the most common, roofing type, as they are effective in all environments. They pass various durability tests, including wind, rain, and heat.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Many color options
- Very versatile
- Class A Fire rating
- Withstand high winds
CONS
- Damages are more straightforward in cold weather
- It doesn’t hold up in extreme wind conditions
The upfront cost for an asphalt shingle roof is low, but it must be replaced at least once every 20 years. You can also purchase specialized asphalt shingles with different ratings for impact resistance and durability. You are making it an exciting solution, covering many various locations.
5-Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is incredible in terms of longevity. It can last over 100 years; it won’t burn, is waterproof, and prevents fungus and mold build-up.
PROS
- Highly resistant to mold
- Fire resistant
- Very attractive
- Extremely durable
CONS
- Tiles can spall and shed layers
- Tiles can vary in thickness
It is also effective in a wet climate. However, it can get expensive and easily broken with inconsiderate walking or heavy hails.
6-Rubber Slate Roofs
A rubber slate roofing looks like any other roof, except it can be cut with a regular knife and fit any shape and size. These can last over 100 years but easily damage like regular slate roofing.
PROS
- Cost up to 50% less
- Long-lasting
- Green roofing
- Very attractive for curb appeal
- Impact Resistant
- UV resistant
CONS
- Not fire resistant
- It has a distinct odor
In any case, rubber slate roofing is hard to come by because many professionals need to gain experience in installation. Nonetheless, if you want to find it, you will.
7-Concrete and Clay Tiles
Concrete and clay tile can withstand elemental damage, starting with high-speed winds, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, and other extreme weather conditions.
PROS
- More energy efficient
- Color retention
- Low cost
- Last up to 50 years
- Good fire protection
- Low maintenance
- Impervious to rotting and insect damage
CONS
- Heavy tiles require reinforcement
- High cost
- Difficult to install
- Brittle tiles
They are great in dry and warm climates, sometimes requiring extra maintenance on the roof to help bear the weight, but they are competent when set up.
8-Green Roofs
Probably the least popular of the nine roofs listed here, Green roofing is an ecological solution that plants nature in your home.
PROS
- Ecologically friendly
- Purifies air
- Encourages bi0diversity
- Absorbs rainwater
CONS
- Poor sound insulation
- Poor temperature regulation
- Increases weight load
- Requires extra maintenance
It improves air quality, reduces water runoff, and helps insulate a home in an urban heat area. Nonetheless, they require many additional services, such as thermal insulation, waterproofing, drainage, water filtration, vapor barriers, and structural supports. Not to mention, you got to get the right plants. This can be done by finding the right local contractor for each job. They can last up to 40 years.
9-Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofing is heavy and consists of tar, asphalt, and adhesive. It can only be used on flat roofs and is commonly seen on a roof-top deck with a lot of foot traffic.
PROS
- Handles surface punishment very well
- Top-of-the-line protection from leaks
- Deficient maintenance
- Fire resistant
CONS
- Hazardous fumes during installation
- cost more to install
- UV rays breakdown the membrane
It will help cool down the sun for a rooftop summer area but can be challenging to maintain in the winter due to the friction. They last anywhere from 25 to 30 years on average.
Suppose you have questions about what roof would be the perfect fit for you. Don’t hesitate to call us at planet roofing at 954-600-1462.
