Asphalt shingle, clay tiles, wood shingles, slate, and metal roofing—there are plenty of types of roofing to choose from, whether you’re thinking about roofing installation or are just trying to keep your existing roof in the best possible condition. Different types of roofing all come with different strengths and weakness, which are important for you to consider, both when getting a new roof and maintaining it well.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are an extremely popular roofing choice for their similarity in appearance to slate roofing and much lower price tag. Asphalt shingles are a versatile, inexpensive roofing option for homes in cooler climates and can last 20 to 50 years, but they are not the recommended choice for areas with high winds or very hot climates.
Tile Roofing
Clay tiles, on the other hand, can be used in hot climates, and have a much longer lifespan than asphalt shingles, lasting over 100 years with proper care and upkeep. However, clay tiles are more expensive than asphalt shingles, and their porous nature makes them ineffective and prone to damage in very cold climates.
Wood Shingles
Typically falling between asphalt shingles and clay tiles in price, wood shingles offer an iconic, unusual look that can set your home apart from every other house on the street. Like other types of roofing, the durability of wood shingles is extremely dependent on climate—while wood shingles can last as long as asphalt in dry climates, when exposed to too much moisture, their lifespan can be cut in half.
Slate Roofing
One of the more expensive types of roofing, slate is also one of the longest lasting. Appropriate for all climates and extremely durable, slate roofing is stylish, luxurious, and can last as long as 150 years.
Metal Roofing
Comparable in price to clay roofing tiles, metal roofing is a popular choice in colder climates. Steel and aluminum are the most popular choices, but zinc and copper, while more expensive, also offer a more iconic look and a much longer lifespan.