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Your roof is one of the most essential parts of your home, providing protection, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. But with so many roofing materials — like asphalt shingles, clay tiles, and metal panels — how do you know which is the right fit?
Our team of roofing experts has helped tons of homeowners navigate this choice. If you’re unsure where to start, this guide breaks down the pros, cons, and quirks of each option, so you can make the call confidently.
Understanding Types of Roofing Materials and Their Evolution
Roofing materials have come a long way. Back in the day, wood shingles, clay tiles, and slate were popular for their natural charm and resilience. But now, modern materials like metal and composite roofing offer higher efficiency, longer lifespans, and simpler installation.
What sets modern materials apart from the classics? It comes down to performance. Modern options prioritize longevity, sustainability, and ease of installation while maintaining good looks.
Let's begin by examining some of the most common traditional roofing materials!
Traditional Roofing Materials
Traditional roofing materials offer tried-and-true performance, with a track record of reliability and a familiar aesthetic that complements many types of architecture.
Asphalt Shingles
🏷️ Price Range: $1.50-$4.50 per square foot
Asphalt shingles continue to dominate the U.S. roofing market, and it’s easy to see why. Made from a fiberglass or organic base layered with asphalt and protective granules, they’re affordable, easy to install, and come in designs like basic three-tab and architectural styles that mimic premium materials.
Their biggest drawback? Their lifespan. Once the protective granules wear off, they’ll need full replacement, which typically happens after 20 to 30 years. But for budget-conscious homeowners, they strike the perfect balance between price and performance.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to install, widely available, and highly versatile.
- Cons: Shorter lifespan and vulnerability to extreme weather damage.
Why choose them? If you want a cost-effective roof that’s simple to repair and replace, asphalt shingles are a smart option.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
🏷️ Price Range: $10 to $20 per square foot
Clay and concrete tiles bring timeless charm and durability to the table. Whether you’re drawn to the classic barrel shape or prefer a flat interlocking style, these tiles add a distinct architectural flair. They’re incredibly durable and fire-resistant but come with a weight that demands proper structural support.
- Pros: Long-lasting, fire-resistant, and provide excellent thermal insulation.
- Cons: Heavy, expensive to install, and prone to cracking under pressure.
A clay or concrete tile roof is a great option for those looking for a distinct visual appeal and who do not mind the added structural considerations. Ideal for Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes in warm, dry climates.
Cedar Shake and Wood Shingles
🏷️ Price Range: $4.50-$14 per square foot
Cedar shakes and wood shingles are natural wood roofing materials, typically made from cedar or redwood. Shingles are machine-cut for a smooth finish, while shakes are thicker and more rustic. Although they’re eco-friendly and provide great insulation, they need regular maintenance to prevent issues like rot and insect damage.
- Pros: Eco-friendly and naturally insulating.
- Cons: More expensive, require consistent maintenance, and are susceptible to fire, rot, and insect damage.
These characteristics make wood shingles and cedar shakes best for those who prioritize a natural aesthetic and are prepared for consistent maintenance requirements and are often chosen for homes with a rustic aesthetic.
Slate Roofing
🏷️ Price Range: $10-$30 per square foot
Slate roofs scream luxury. They’re crafted from natural stone and can last over a century when properly maintained. They’re fireproof, weather-resistant, and bring a level of elegance that’s hard to match. But that premium look comes with high costs and the need for reinforced support.
- Pros: Extremely durable and resistant to fire, water, and extreme weather.
- Cons: Heavy, expensive, and requires specialized installation.
Why choose them? If you’re looking for a roof that exudes class and lasts a lifetime, slate is worth the investment — though synthetic alternatives offer a budget-friendly, lightweight option.
Let’s Find the Roof Your Home Deserves
Your home deserves a roof that’s as reliable as it is beautiful. Picking the right material can make all the difference in protecting your property for years to come. Let our team help you find the perfect fit without any guesswork.
Specialized and Modern Roofing Materials
Modern and specialized roofing materials offer a blend of innovative designs and advanced technologies to improve performance, boost energy efficiency, and increase sustainability. These options often address specific needs and improve upon previous construction methods.
Metal Roofing
🏷️ Price Range: $8-$16 per square foot
Metal roofing is a durable and versatile option made from materials like standing steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc. It comes in various styles, including standing seam panels and shingles designed to mimic wood, slate, or tile. It's lightweight, recyclable, and energy-efficient, reflecting heat to reduce cooling costs. The only catch? Without proper insulation, it can get noisy when rain or hail hits.
- Pros: Fire-resistant, lightweight, and long-lasting (up to 70+ years).
- Cons: Higher upfront cost and can be noisy during heavy rain unless soundproofed.
The material's features are perfect for homeowners looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance, durable, and energy-efficient roofing material that’s also suitable for different climates and architectural designs.
Composite Roofing
🏷️ Price Range: $7-$13 per square foot
Want the beauty of slate or wood without the headache? Composite roofing is made from a mix of synthetic materials like recycled plastics, polymers, and rubber, designed to look like high-end materials. It’s tough against the elements, lightweight, and comes with warranties that can last 40 to 50 years. Minimal maintenance, maximum style — what’s not to love?
- Pros: Low-maintenance, durable, and resistant to mold, rot, and insects.
- Cons: Higher cost compared to asphalt shingles.
This material option is a great choice for homeowners looking for a premium appearance with minimal maintenance requirements.
Membrane Roofing (EPDM, PVC, TPO)
🏷️ Price Range: $4-$8 per square foot
Membrane roofing is a flat or low-slope roofing option made from synthetic materials like EPDM (rubber), PVC, or TPO. The first material is a durable synthetic rubber material, while PVC and TPO membranes offer added strength and flexibility. These single-ply sheets are lightweight, waterproof, and resistant to UV rays and weather damage. However, they can be prone to punctures and seam leaks, requiring proper installation and periodic maintenance to ensure longevity.
- Pros: Lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to repair.
- Cons: Vulnerable to punctures and leaks if seams aren’t sealed correctly.
Membrane roofing is best suited for commercial buildings or homes with flat roofs that require excellent waterproofing.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
🏷️ Price Range: $2.50-$5 per square foot
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a traditional flat roofing system made from multiple layers of asphalt, tar, or bitumen alternated with reinforcing fabrics and finished with a layer of gravel or a protective coating. This layered structure provides excellent waterproofing, UV resistance, and durability. While cost-effective, it can emit strong fumes during installation and may be difficult to detect leaks, which can complicate repairs.
- Pros: Resistant to water, UV rays, and weather extremes.
- Cons: Labor-intensive installation and can emit harmful fumes during application.
The layered structure of BUR makes this material ideal for commercial buildings and low-slope residential buildings.
Green (Living) Roofing
🏷️ Price Range: $10 to $30+ per square foot
Green roofing transforms your rooftop into a lush, living space filled with vegetation. Beneath the greenery, you’ll find waterproofing, soil, and drainage layers to ensure everything stays intact. Green roofs help reduce heat absorption, improve insulation, and manage rainwater. But they’re not low-maintenance — they require consistent upkeep and proper structural support.
- Pros: Improves energy efficiency and air quality.
- Cons: Requires regular maintenance and structural reinforcement.
Green roofs are a perfect choice for those who want to prioritize environmentally friendly options and unique aesthetics, but are ready for higher maintenance and upfront costs.
Solar Roof Tiles
🏷️ Price Range: $15-$35 per square foot
Why choose between a roof and solar panels when you can have both? Solar roof tiles are the perfect blend of functionality and design. Acting as both durable roof coverings and energy-generating panels, they fit seamlessly into traditional roof styles while reducing your energy bills. They’re especially effective in sunny regions, though their high upfront cost and reduced efficiency in shaded areas are worth considering.
- Pros: Lowers energy bills and increases property value.
- Cons: Pricey upfront and less effective in shaded locations.
Solar tiles are ideal for homeowners seeking a sustainable, energy-efficient roofing option in sunny climates.
Which Roofing Material Is Right for You?
Selecting the right roofing material is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires careful consideration of performance, aesthetic preferences, and budgetary constraints. Let's explore how to narrow your options.
Factors to Consider for Your Choice
Selecting the perfect roofing material means thinking beyond just looks. Here’s what you should evaluate:
- Climate considerations: Choose materials that can handle your area’s weather — whether it’s snow, heavy rain, or blazing heat.
- Budget factors: Weigh the initial installation cost against future maintenance and replacement expenses.
- Architectural compatibility: Make sure your roof complements the style of your home for maximum curb appeal.
- Installation and maintenance: Some materials require professional installation and regular upkeep.
- Energy efficiency: Consider reflective materials or solar tiles to reduce energy costs.
Questions to Ask Your Roofing Professional
Before making a final decision, make sure that you have a detailed discussion with your roofing expert and clarify all your questions:
- Material recommendations: What’s the best fit for my home’s structure and climate conditions?
- Warranty coverage: What exactly is included, and does it cover labor, leaks, or repairs?
- Installation process: How long will it take and can weather conditions cause delays?
- Cost breakdown: Does the estimate cover everything, or should I expect extra charges for things like insulation and permits?
- Maintenance requirements: What regular upkeep will be needed to keep the roof in top shape?
Getting clear answers to these questions ensures you’ll avoid surprises and feel confident in your decision.
Conclusion
Your roof is a key player in your home’s long-term performance and value. With so many options available, choosing the right roofing material doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your options and weighing them against your personal needs, you’ll be set up for success.
At Greater Midwest Exteriors, we make the process easy. Our experts in Chicagoland offer personalized solutions, guiding you every step of the way to find the best fit for your home and budget. Reach out today, and let’s choose a roof that works for you.
