The 9 Best Types of Roofs
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Most homeowners will need to replace their roofs at some point. This is an expensive project, but a good quality roof has a lifespan of a few decades, making it a great investment in your home.
Our guide pulls from our research into the country’s top roofing providers and details the different types of roofing available, how much new roofs cost, and other essential information.
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The 9 Best Types of Roofs
These are the best types of roofing materials available, according to our research. We’ll go into more detail about each below:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Concrete Roofing
- Slate Roofing
- Built-Up Roofing
- Green Roofing
- Solar Roofing
- Clay Tiles
- Metal Roofing
- Wood Roofing
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable and common roofing materials, costing $2.08–$3.56 per square foot. Evan Greene, Sales Manager of NE Exteriors for the New England Branch of Long Home Products says, “Asphalt roofing is the best choice in most normal circumstances because it is a healthy balance of cost and quality.”
Asphalt shingles can be made from various materials. Fiberglass shingles are less expensive, while composite shingles made from recycled material are costlier. Higher-priced materials offer longer durability. Asphalt roofs typically last up to 10 years. They also come in a range of styles, from basic three-tab shingles to high-quality architectural shingles.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Various options
Cons
- Not all options have long-term durability
- Sensitive to extreme temperature changes
Built-up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing, or BUR roofing, is used primarily for flat roofs. It’s made from multiple layers of asphalt, ply sheets, aggregate, and other materials. BUR roofing protects from ultraviolet damage and has great waterproofing qualities.
The average cost of a BUR roofing system for flat roofs is $3.42–$4.90 per square foot. Most BUR roofs last between 15 and 30 years.
Pros and Cons of Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Pros
- Fire-resistant due to aggregate layer
- Low-maintenance
- Provides good waterproofing
Cons
- Long installation process
- Relatively short lifespan of 15–30 years
Clay Tiles
Clay tile roofing, also known as terracotta, is one of the oldest roofing materials. It’s eco-friendly and extremely durable. It’s also fire-resistant and has great thermal properties, making it common in hot climates or areas with wildfires.
Clay tile roofing can be very expensive, costing an average of $5.90–$14.68 per square foot. However, clay tile roofs are extremely long-lasting, with lifespans of 50–100 years.
Pros and Cons of Clay Tiles
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting with great curb appeal
- Eco-friendly material with insulating qualities that maximize energy efficiency
- Low-maintenance with fire and rot resistance
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy material that may require additional structural support
Concrete Roofing
Concrete roofing has a long lifespan and generally lasts about 50 years. Concrete tiles also have great thermal properties: They slowly absorb and emit heat, helping you to increase your energy efficiency and save on electricity bills. However, if concrete roofing is not installed or maintained properly, it can leave the underlayment of your roof susceptible to water damage.
Concrete tiles cost an average of $5.16–$8.60 per square foot. Although they’re expensive and require some maintenance, concrete tiles can offer a great return on investment (ROI) and add property value.
Pros and Cons of Concrete Roofing
Pros
- Eco-friendly material that can be recycled
- Long lifespan and durable in many climates
- Wide range of styles and colors
Cons
- Requires maintenance to prevent mildew and algae
- Weight can require additional structural support
Green Roofing
Green roofing is relatively new to the United States, but it’s growing in popularity. Made from plants and other vegetation, green roofs offer homeowners a variety of benefits.
The best roof insulation, such as green roofs, costs $10–$28 per square foot. Though this is on the high end of the cost spectrum, green roofs are made to increase energy efficiency. The savings on your electricity bill can offset the initial costs.
Pros and Cons of Green Roofing
Pros
- Environmental pollutants are absorbed before entering your home
- Improved energy efficiency and reduced utility costs
- Noise-reducing properties can filter out unwanted environmental noise
Cons
- Regular maintenance required for optimum performance
- Susceptible to water damage
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs have a life expectancy of 30–50 years, making them a great investment. They come in many styles and materials, and all options promise durability, easy maintenance, and fire and weather resistance.
Metal roofs also help lower your utility costs. “Metal roofing is the most energy-efficient type of roofing. Reflection of sunlight will lower surface temperatures on a roof and subsequently reduce attic temperatures, lowering energy costs,” says John Foley, New England Branch Manager, Long Home Products. Metal roofs cost $9–$14.60 per square foot.
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing
Pros
- Lightweight and doesn’t require additional support
- Maintenance is straightforward and simple
- Reflects heat and can lower cooling costs
Cons
- Expansion and contraction from environmental factors can stress the material
- Installation can be difficult and require a specialist
Slate Roofing
Natural slate roofing lasts more than 100 years and is generally known as the highest-quality roofing material. However, slate tiles are also one of the most expensive options, costing $7.56–$18.70 per square foot.
Pros and Cons of Slate Roofing
Pros
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Extremely long lifespan of 100+ years
- Natural, eco-friendly material
Cons
- Exceptionally fragile if handled improperly
- Requires specialty knowledge for proper installation
Solar Roofing
Solar roofing is a great option for homeowners converting to solar power who want to maintain their home’s aesthetics. This roofing mimics traditional roofing design but generates energy like traditional solar panels. It costs $16.10–$20.85 per square foot and is available from some of the best and most reputable solar companies.
Pros and Cons of Solar Roofing
Pros
- Energy-generating and eco-friendly
- Great aesthetic alternative to solar panels
- Won’t break if stepped on
Cons
- Installation requires a trained specialist
- New technology with little information regarding longevity
Wood Roofing
There are two main types of wooden roofing material: wooden shingles and wooden shakes.
Wood shingles are typically thinner than wood shakes and are sawed by a machine on both sides. A shake is hand split on only one side. Shakes are better in certain weather conditions, such as high wind.
Cedar shakes are some of the most common types of wooden roofing material. Cedar shake roof cost is comparable to wood shingles and shakes that can also be made from spruce, redwood, pine, or other coniferous trees. Regardless of which option you choose, wooden roofs cost $6.53–$9.90 per square foot.
Pros and Cons of Wood Roofing
Pros
- Easy to install and transport
- Extremely resistant to high winds, rot, and mold
- Naturally insulating, lowering heating and cooling costs
Cons
- Can be prone to wood-loving insect infestations
- Susceptible to fire damage, which can make them hard to insure
How Do Common Roof Types Compare?
Each type of roofing ranges in price and durability. Compare roof materials, specifically their costs and life span below.
| Material | Cost | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $2.08–$3.50 | 20–30 years |
| Built-up Roofing (BUR) | $3.42–$4.90 | 15–30 years |
| Clay Tiles | $5.90–$14.68 | 50–100 years |
| Concrete Roofing | $5.16–$8.60 | 50 years |
| Green Roofing | $10–$28 | 40 years |
| Metal Roofing | $9–$14.60 | 40–70 years |
| Slate Roofing | $7.56–$18.70 | 75–200 years |
| Solar Roofing | $16.10–$20.85 | 25–30 years* |
| Wood Roofing | $6.53–$9.90 | 15–30 years |
*Solar roofing lifespan is a general estimate. Solar roofing is a technology that is only 10 years old.
Your roof’s lifespan can vary depending on how well you maintain it. Some roofing materials require more maintenance than others. If not maintained properly, your roof may need replacement sooner rather than later. You should keep all of the above in mind when choosing roofing materials.
While not included in this review, a rubber roof is a great option for homeowners with flat or low-sloped roofs.
When Should You Replace Your Roof?
It’s best to repair or replace your roof promptly to prevent further damage. Here are some signs of roof damage:
- Active leaks or water stains in your attic or ceiling
- Asphalt shingle granules in your gutters
- Ice dams or ridges that prevent proper runoff
- Increased energy bills unrelated to an HVAC issue
- Mildew or moss in any area where sections of your roof meet
- Pools of water on your roof
- Visible holes, tears, cracks, or other damage to your shingles
- Visible sagging of your roofline
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to call a professional to inspect your roof. Hopefully, you will only need to pay for a simple roof repair. However, a roof replacement is often not out of the question when you see these signs.
DIY vs. Professional Replacement
You may be able to do some roof repairs yourself, depending on which type you have. However, it’s best to leave a total roof replacement project up to the professionals. Roofing contractors have specialized equipment, such as scaffolding and pulleys. They also have the knowledge and experience to do the job properly. Some roof types must be installed by approved contractors to maintain the product warranty.
An improperly installed roof can cause major problems in the future. For example, water could get into the roof deck and internal structure and cause mold, rot, or other damage. Installing a roof on your own may even compromise your home insurance policy. Though labor costs can be expensive, having a professional roofer do the job is worth it.
Below is a breakdown of different roof types and parts, as illustrated in our Learn the Basics of Roof Systems article.
Our Conclusion
Roof replacement can be expensive, but it’s imperative that it’s done correctly or you could face major problems down the road. There are plenty of roofing types available to fit your budget and needs. Choosing the right kind and hiring a professional installer will provide you with the peace of mind that your home is protected for years to come.
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FAQ About Types of Roofs
What is the most durable type of roof/roofing material?
Slate is the most durable and longest-lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of more than 150 years. The next most durable material is clay, which has a lifespan of about 100 years.
What roof type is the easiest to maintain?
Metal roofing is one of the lowest maintenance options. It’s not prone to cracking, splitting, or corrosion, making it practically maintenance-free.
What roofing material is the most cost-effective?
Asphalt roofing is the most cost-effective option. It’s one of the least expensive roofing materials and will last you between 15 and 30 years.
What is the most popular roof type?
The most popular residential roofing material is asphalt roofing. The economical price point and easy installation make it a go-to choice for homeowners.
