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Jul 15, 2023

7 Types of Roofing Materials to Consider

From asphalt shingles to metal panels, compare pricing and differences to find the right option. Not only is the roof over your head critical for keeping out the weather, it has a huge impact on your

From asphalt shingles to metal panels, compare pricing and differences to find the right option.

Not only is the roof over your head critical for keeping out the weather, it has a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal. "From a design perspective, the roof is a dominant — if often overlooked — visual element," says Dan DiClerico, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab. "Trust me when I say, if you choose a roof that clashes with the style of the home, everyone will notice." The wrong material can also mean inadequate protection or premature failure.

Replacing your roof isn't cheap (the average homeowner spends about $10,000 on a new roof), so it's an investment in your home. Your roof takes the brunt of any harsh weather: the beating sun, thrashing rain, winter snowstorms and the like. Even once you consider your budget, climate and installation, it may still feel overwhelming to settle on a new roofing material. To help you decide, we've rounded up the best roofing materials — from versatile picks like asphalt shingles to long-lasting slate and clay tiles.

Asphalt is the most popular material for residential roofing in the U.S. because it's affordable, easy to install and works well in most climates. There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab (most affordable), dimensional or architectural (thicker than 3-tab shingles) and luxury (designed to look like slate tiles).

From Cape Cod cottages to contemporary homes, wood roofing is a natural, stylish and affordable choice. For a rustic or unique aesthetic, wood shakes and shingles are available in different colors, patterns and grains. Typically made of cedar, the material is naturally energy-efficient, wind resistant and impact resistant. Since it's an easy target for water damage, wood roofing is best for dry climates — just note you may need a fire retardant.

If you're intending to live in your home for decades to come, slate may be a viable option for you — since the natural stone can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. Slate roofs are durable enough to withstand high winds and high temperatures, plus they are fire-proof and do a good job keeping out water. If you do plan to move at some point, a slate roof may help to increase a home's value.

From reddish-orange terracotta to textured gray concrete, tile roofing is meant to last a lifetime (or longer). "Concrete and terracotta tiles are extremely durable, even against fire — making them a good option in warm, dry regions that are prone to wild fires," says DiClerico. The material is popular in hot climates — like Florida, California and the Southwest — because it holds up well in extreme heat and exposure to salt air.

Metal roofs are typically made from steel, aluminum, copper or tin. Although they can be costly, the material has a long lifespan and holds up exceptionally well in harsh winter climates. "Metal does a good job of shrugging off heavy snow, which is why you see them in northern parts of the country," says DiClerico.

Solar shingles or solar roof tiles can replace existing shingles, and work best paired with asphalt or tile roofing. They harvest sunlight to generate electricity. Solar energy is best for sunny climates, but isn't ideal for homes with steeply pitched roofs or those that are surrounded by a lot of trees or other sun-blocking objects.

Also known as a green roof, a living roof is exactly what it sounds like: a roof partially or completely covered with soil, vegetation and plants. Although they're a less popular choice, green roofs last 40 to 50 years — protecting your home from wind, ice, snow rain and UV rays in the process.

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✔️ Style: "Your roof should coordinate with the architecture of the home," says DiClerico, who suggests starting with style. More often than not, homeowners replace their roof with the same material. If you want to switch it up, you can take your cue from similar homes in your neighborhood.

✔️ Cost: The average homeowner spends between $10,000 and $20,000 replacing their roof, according to DiClerico. But, prices vary widely depending on the choice of material and size of the house.

✔️ Installation: On top of material cost, you'll need to consider the cost and difficulty of installation. Asphalt is the most affordable option, but more expensive materials may last much longer. Lightweight shingles and tiles are generally easier to install (you may even be able to do it yourself), although heavier materials typically have longer lifespans.

✔️ Climate: You'll want to consider your climate as certain materials hold up better to snow, rain and hail, while others withstand high winds and tropical temperatures. Asphalt and metal work well in most climates, while wood is best in cold temperatures and clay and concrete tiles do well in heat.

As Good Housekeeping's associate lifestyle editor, Alyssa Gautieri covers home improvement and interior design topics. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she worked for various home publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine, in addition to brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.

To choose the best types of roofing materials, Alyssa consulted with Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab in the Good Housekeeping Institute. DiClerico brings more than 20 years of experience to the Institute, reviewing thousands of products (including roofing and solar systems) for Good Housekeeping and previously for This Old House and Consumer Reports. Prior to starting his career as a home expert, Dan worked for several years on a roofing crew, mainly replacing asphalt and wood shingle roofs on suburban homes.

Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.

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