When it comes to your home, the roof is an essential component that protects you and your belongings from the elements.
That’s why it’s important to choose a roofing material that is both durable and long-lasting.
There are many options available, each with its own unique set of pros and cons.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top five roofing materials for durability and longevity: asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tile roofing, wood shingles and shakes, and rubber roofing.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the different options available and be able to make an informed decision about which are the best roofing materials for you.
(If you want to go really high tech – check out our article on solar roofing tiles here!)
Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable option for roofing material.
They’re made from a fiberglass or organic mat that is coated with asphalt and topped with granules.
One of the main benefits of asphalt shingles is their wide availability.
They can be found at most home improvement stores and are easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.
They also come in a variety of colors and styles to suit different tastes and home exteriors.
However, asphalt shingles do have some downsides. One of the main drawbacks is their shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials.
They’re susceptible to weather damage and fading, which can shorten their lifespan to as little as 15 years.
Despite their shorter lifespan, asphalt shingles are still a popular choice due to their low cost and easy installation.
If you’re on a tight budget and need a quick fix, asphalt shingles might be the right choice for you.
Just keep in mind that you may need to replace them more frequently than other roofing materials.
Metal roofing
If you’re looking for a more durable and long-lasting roofing material, metal roofing might be worth considering.
It’s made from metal sheets or tiles and comes in a variety of styles, including standing seam, metal shingles, and corrugated panels.
One of the main benefits of metal roofing is its longevity.
Metal roofs are known for their long lifespan, with some estimates putting it at 40-70 years.
They’re also resistant to weather damage, such as wind, hail, and fire, making them a good choice for areas prone to extreme weather.
In addition to their durability, metal roofs are also energy-efficient. They reflect the sun’s rays, which can help reduce your home’s cooling costs in the summer.
They’re also low maintenance, as they don’t require frequent repairs or replacements like other roofing materials.
There are a couple of downsides to metal roofing, however. One potential drawback is the initial cost, which can be higher than other roofing materials.
Additionally, metal roofs can be noisy during rain or hail, so they may not be the best choice for homes with bedrooms directly below the roof.
Overall, metal roofing is a durable and long-lasting option that offers energy efficiency and low maintenance.
If you’re willing to invest in a higher quality roof that will last for decades, metal roofing might be the right choice for you.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofing is a traditional and attractive option that is known for its longevity. It’s made from clay or concrete tiles that are shaped and fired in a kiln.
One of the main benefits of tile roofing is its long lifespan, which can be as much as 50-100 years. Tile roofs are also resistant to weather damage, including wind, hail, and fire, making them a good choice for areas prone to extreme weather.
Tile roofs come in a variety of colors and styles, including terracotta, slate, and Spanish-style tiles. They can add a classic look to a home and can increase the home’s value.
There are a few drawbacks to tile roofing, however.
One is the initial cost, which can be higher than other roofing materials. Tile roofs are also heavy, which means they require a sturdy roof structure to support them.
They can also be difficult to install, so it’s important to hire a professional roofing contractor.
Overall, tile roofing is a durable and long-lasting option that offers a variety of colors and styles.
If your roof structure can support them, tiles are a solid choice.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
If you’re looking for a natural and rustic option for your roof, wood shingles and shakes might be worth considering.
They’re made from thin slices of wood that are typically cedar, pine, or redwood, and are either machine-cut into uniform shapes (shingles) or split by hand (shakes).
One of the main benefits of wood shingles and shakes is their natural beauty. They can be stained or painted to match the exterior of your home and can add value to your home.
However, wood shingles and shakes do have some downsides. One of the main drawbacks is their shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials.
They’re susceptible to rot and insect damage, which can shorten their lifespan to as little as 15 years.
They also require regular maintenance, such as staining or painting to protect against weathering.
Despite their shorter lifespan, wood shingles and shakes are still a popular choice for homeowners who want a natural and rustic look for their roof.
Just keep in mind that they may require more maintenance and may need to be replaced more frequently than other roofing materials.
Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing is a durable and energy-efficient option that is made from recycled rubber tires. It’s a popular choice for flat or low-sloped roofs, such as those found on commercial buildings or apartment complexes.
One of the main benefits of rubber roofing is its long lifespan, which can be as much as 50-70 years.
It’s also resistant to weather damage, including wind, hail, and fire, making it a good choice for areas prone to extreme weather.
Rubber roofing is also low maintenance and environmentally friendly, as it’s made from recycled materials.
Rubber roofing is known for its energy efficiency, as it’s able to reflect the sun’s rays and reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the roof.
This can help lower your home’s cooling costs in the summer by reducing the need for air conditioning.
In addition to its reflectivity, rubber roofing is also able to insulate your home by creating a barrier between the roof and the interior of your home. This can help keep your home warm in the winter and reduce your heating costs.
The energy efficiency of rubber roofing has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy, which has included it on their list of energy-efficient roofing options.
Rubber roofing can also help homeowners qualify for energy-efficient tax credits and incentives, depending on their location.
However, there are a few drawbacks to rubber roofing.
One is the initial cost, which can be higher than other roofing materials. Rubber roofing is also not as widely available as other roofing materials, so you may have to special order it.
Also, the color and style options for rubber roofing are limited.
Rubber roofing is a highly energy-efficient roofing material that can help reduce your home’s energy costs and potentially qualify you for government incentives.
If you’re looking for a roof that will save you money on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint, rubber roofing is definitely worth considering.
Slate Roofing
Another option to consider when it comes to roofing materials is slate. It’s a natural stone that is quarried and cut into thin, flat pieces that are used to cover the roof.
One of the main benefits of slate roofing is its natural beauty and durability.
It’s a traditional option that can add a classic look to a home and is known to last for decades and even centuries, making it one of the most long-lasting roofing materials available.
It’s also resistant to fire, insects and weather damage, making it suitable for areas with severe weather conditions.
Slate roofs are also energy efficient, as the natural stone is able to keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, helping to reduce energy costs.
However, there are a few drawbacks to slate roofing.
One of the main drawbacks is the cost, as it can be quite expensive to purchase and install. It also requires specialized installation, so it’s important to hire a professional roofing contractor who has experience working with slate.
Additionally, the availability of slate might be limited depending on the location.
Overall, slate roofing is a beautiful and durable option that can last for centuries and offers energy efficiency, but it can be costly and require specialized installation.
That said, if you can afford it, slate is a great choice for your roof that will last you for a long (long) time.
Which roof material should you choose?
As we’ve seen, there are many options available when it comes to roofing materials, each with its own unique set of pros and cons.
Asphalt shingles are affordable but have a shorter lifespan. Metal roofing is durable and energy-efficient but can be noisy.
Tile roofing is attractive and long-lasting but can be expensive and difficult to install.
Wood shingles and shakes are natural and rustic but have a shorter lifespan and require high maintenance.
Rubber roofing is durable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly but has a higher initial cost and limited color and style options.
Slate roofing is very hard wearing and long lasting (and resists the elements!) but does have drawback of being one of the most expensive type of roof materials.
When choosing a roofing material, it’s important to consider the specific needs and preferences of your home.
If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, a more durable material like metal or tile might be a good choice.
If you’re on a tight budget, asphalt shingles might be a more affordable option. And if you’re looking for a roof that will save you money on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint, rubber roofing might be the way to go.
If you’re considering a new roof for your home and want to explore your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable roofing contractor in your area.
Many companies offer free quotes and will be able to provide you with more detailed information about the different roofing materials and their costs.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – a new roof can protect your home and your belongings for decades to come.
Get in touch with a local, well-rated company today!
