Comparing Different Types of Roofing Materials for Your Home

Your roof is so much more than a protective shield; it’s also your home’s crowning glory. The roofing materials you choose have an immense impact on your home’s overall aesthetic and curb appeal. What’s more, different types of roofs also impact your home’s energy efficiency and the durability of your roof.

If you’re thinking about a new roof, all these aspects matter — but so does your budget. This quick guide walks you through essential points to consider as you pick the best roofing materials for your New Jersey home. 

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are by far the most commonly used roofing material in the US, and they’re much more versatile than you may think. Homeowners can choose from affordable 3-tab shingles, stunning architectural shingles that mimic the look of high-end wood shake tiles, and robust, beautiful luxury shingles built to stand the test of time and weather just about any storm. 

The main benefits of this popular roofing material are:

• Versatility:  Because asphalt shingles come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, the perfect shingles for your home already exist — no matter what kind of look you’re after!
• Affordability:  Traditional 3-tab shingles are among the least expensive roofing options for residential projects, although high-end asphalt roofing requires a significantly higher upfront investment. 
• Low maintenance:  When asphalt shingles are damaged, repairing them is an easy job for a skilled roofer — and keeping your roof in good shape won’t break the bank.
• Durability:  Did you know that while 3-tab shingle roofs last between 15 and 20 years, high-end asphalt roofing has an expected lifespan of up to 40 years?

Clay and Concrete Tiles

Concrete and clay tiles are among the most robust and durable types of roofing. Don’t get us wrong — we’re happy to replace your roof every 20 years or so, but if you’re on a mission to install a beautiful roof that may outlive you, clay or concrete tiles are the way to go!

Homeowners should consider a clay or tile roof because these roofing solutions offer:

• Beauty:  Both clay and concrete tiles give your home a unique, charming look that bumps you straight up to curb appeal heaven. Clay tiles have beautiful orange hues, but concrete tiles can be dyed into almost any shade imaginable.
• Low maintenance:  Thanks to their interlocking design, both these different types of roofs are able to withstand rainy, stormy, and snowy weather with ease.
• Energy efficiency:  Clay tiles don’t just protect your home from turbulent weather conditions but also contribute to regulating temperatures year-round. Look forward to lower utility bills!
• Extreme durability:  Concrete tile roofs have an average life expectancy of 50+ years, while clay tiles can last as long as a century! 

There’s a downside to these roofing materials, of course — concrete and clay tiles are nowhere near as affordable as asphalt shingles, but the investment undeniably pays off in the long term if you plan on staying in your home for several decades.  

Slate Tiles

Homeowners considering the best types of roof shingles can think of slate tiles as the Rolls-Royce of roofing materials. They’re absolutely gorgeous, easy to maintain, and supremely durable. Since slate is a natural material, this roofing option is environmentally friendly for several reasons. Slate roofs are recyclable, made without harmful chemicals, and they make your home more energy efficient. 

All high-end roofing materials come with an elevated price tag, and slate is no exception — but there’s another consideration. Not all roofing contractors have extensive experience in installing this type of roof, and it takes skill to get it right. 

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Metal roofs are durable, rain- and snow-resistant, and fireproof — making them an excellent choice for New Jersey homeowners.

You should also know that metal roofing:

• Comes in two main types. Metal shingles are coated to resemble asphalt shingles or slate tiles, giving them a beautiful, high-end look. Standing seam metal roofing is even more robust.
• Is completely recyclable when it finally reaches the end of its useful lifespan — after 50 to 100 years.
• Requires specialized skills to install. Always look for a roofing contractor with extensive experience. 

Metal roofs can be crafted from steel or aluminum, and these different types of roofing materials have variable price points. 

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are an innovative roofing option that turns your roof into an energy generator without sacrificing beauty. These roofing materials are becoming increasingly popular as environmental awareness grows, but homeowners should know that they don’t have to commit to a full solar roof to enjoy these benefits. Experienced roofers can also install solar shingles on a portion of the roof. 

Other types of roofing materials can make your home more energy efficient, but only solar shingles actively generate power and slash your bills!

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are unusual roofing materials you don’t see often. They’ll make your house the talk of the street (at least for a while) because they’re stunning! However:

• Wood-based roofing materials attract moisture, making them less durable than other types of roofs — especially in humid areas that get high levels of precipitation. Wood shingle roofs may last you 30 years, but they require ongoing maintenance. Wood shakes, which are thicker, may have a lifespan of around 60 years.
• Price-wise, wooden roofing solutions fall somewhere between asphalt shingles and slate tiles.

Need a New Roof? Get a Free Consultation Today!

Considering a roof replacement? Don’t default to your current roofing material! A fresh start can transform your home’s look while ushering in a new age of energy efficiency.

Do you have questions about different types of roofs? Reach out to the Fortified Roofing team today, and let us help you discover the best fit for your needs. 

Let’s explore your needs and start your home’s new chapter on a high note! As a seasoned roofing contractor in Toms River, NJ, Fortified Roofing will sit down with you to discuss your options — and make your vision come to life.