Which roof type is best? When it comes to replacing your roof, choosing the right roofing material is a crucial decision that can impact the pricing, lifespan, warranties, and overall satisfaction with your investment. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the research process.
Elite Exteriors takes pride in helping homeowners make tough decisions, by using our industry expertise to provide unbiased information. In this article, we will guide you through the cost, lifespan, warranty information, as well as the pros and cons of the top roofing materials in the market. By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision that suits your roofing needs.
Table of Contents
– Which Roof Type is Best? Top 7 Roofing Materials
– 1. 3-tab Asphalt Shingles
– 2. Architectural Asphalt Shingles
– 3. Luxury Asphalt Shingles
– 4. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
– 5. Synthetic Shingle Roofing
– 6. Cedar Shake Roofing
– 7. Slate Roofing
– Choosing the Best Roofing Material: 4 Key Questions to Ask
– 1. What’s My Roof Replacement Budget?
– 2. How Long Do I Want My Roof to Last?
– 3. How Important is Curb Appeal to Me?
– 4. Is a Roofing Material Warranty Important to Me?
– Which Roof Type is Best? Conclusion
Which Roof Type is Best? Top 7 Roofing Materials
1. 3-tab Asphalt Shingles
Which roof type is best? Well, 3-tab asphalt shingles are the most affordable option in the market. These shingles lay flat and are named after the three tabs on each shingle strip. They used to dominate the residential roofing industry until architectural asphalt shingles were introduced.
Cost: Approximately $4.00 per square foot
Lifespan: Around 20 years at most
Material Warranty: 25-year limited warranty from the manufacturer
Pros:
- Cheapest roofing material available
- Easy to repair and install
Cons:
- Shortest lifespan among roofing materials
- Being phased out of the industry
- Difficult to match colors for repairs and insurance
- Requires yearly maintenance
- Low curb appeal
- Prone to wind damage
2. Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Architectural asphalt shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, offer a random pattern that adds dimension and can simulate the look of a wood-shake roof. So, which roof type is best. Well, these shingles are the most commonly installed roofing material today.
Cost: Approximately $5.86 per square foot
Lifespan: 22-25 years
Material Warranty: 30-year warranty (prorated after 10 years) from the manufacturer. Upgrade to a 50-year non-prorated enhanced warranty with a full roof system.
Pros:
- Affordable option with good lifespan
- Easy to repair and install
- Wide range of materials and colors available
Cons:
- Lower curb appeal compared to other materials
- Requires yearly maintenance
- Prone to hail damage
3. Luxury Asphalt Shingles
Which roof type is best? Luxury asphalt shingles, also known as designer or premium shingles, are designed to mimic the appearance of a natural slate tile roof. These shingles are larger, more durable, and offer the highest curb appeal among asphalt shingles.
Cost: Approximately $8.00 per square foot
Lifespan: Around 30 years or longer under perfect conditions
Material Warranty: 30-year warranty (prorated after 10 years) from the manufacturer. Upgrade to a 50-year non-prorated enhanced warranty with a full roof system.
Pros:
- High durability and longevity
- Exceptional curb appeal
- Resistant to storm damage
Cons:
- More expensive than other asphalt shingles
- Longer installation time
- Requires yearly maintenance
4. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Which roof type is best? Standing seam metal roofs are another roof type that makes our list. A standing seam metal roof is a series of panels that are locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically. These metal roofs are known for their high curb appeal and durability, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Cost: Approximately $12.00-$15.00 per square foot
Lifespan: Around 30 years (up to 50 years in ideal conditions)
Material Warranty: 30-year paint warranty on the Kynar 500 painted finish
Pros:
- Excellent curb appeal
- Versatile and can be used to accent asphalt shingle roofs
- Wide range of color options
- Long-lasting and durable
- Virtually maintenance-free
Cons:
- More expensive than other roofing materials
- Potential for oil canning
- Can be noisy during rain
- Difficult to repair
5. Synthetic Shingle Roofing
Which roof type is best? In our opinion, synthetic shingles are definitely a roof type to consider. Synthetic shingles, also known as composite shingles, are made from synthetic polymer or recycled materials and are designed to mimic the appearance of slate or cedar shake roofs. Although a newcomer to the roofing industry, synthetic shingles are gaining popularity among homeowners.
Cost: Approximately $14.00-$20.00 per square foot
Lifespan: Around 40-50 years
Material Warranty: Varies depending on the manufacturer
Pros:
- Eco-friendly option
- Exceptional curb appeal
- Class 4 impact rating
- Resistant to cracking and breaking
- More cost-effective than natural materials it imitates
Cons:
- Relatively new to the market
- Higher cost compared to other materials
6. Cedar Shake Roofing
So, which roof type is best? Cedar shake roofing is another roof type to consider. It is a premium roof system made from natural wood materials, specifically cedar. The shingles are sourced from large cedar trees in the Northwest United States or Southwest Canada.
Cost: Approximately $25.00-$30.00 per square foot
Lifespan: Around 30 years (up to 50 years, depending on climate)
Material Warranty: None (made from natural materials)
Pros:
- Exceptional curb appeal
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Expensive option
- Requires yearly maintenance
- Color fades over time
- Prone to rot, cracking, and curling
- No material warranty
- Availability of materials may vary
7. Slate Roofing
Natural slate roofing tiles
Which roof type is best? Many would consider slate roofing to be one of the best roof types. Slate roofing is a premium roof system made primarily from natural slate tiles. The slate is mined, mainly in Italy, and cut into square tiles. Unlike other roofing materials, slate tiles are installed individually, making the installation process meticulous and time-consuming.
Cost: Approximately $15.00-$30.00 per square foot
Lifespan: 75 to 100 years
Material Warranty: None (made from natural materials)
Pros:
- Longest-lasting roofing material available
- Exceptional curb appeal
- Durable and highly resistant to damage
Cons:
- Expensive option
- Heavy weight requires proper structural support
- Fragile tiles
- Difficult and time-consuming to repair
- No material warranty
Choosing the Best Roofing Material: 4 Key Questions to Ask
Now that you have an overview of the cost, lifespan, and pros and cons of each roofing material, it’s time to ask yourself some key questions to determine which roof type is best for your roofing needs.
1. What’s My Roof Replacement Budget?
Before diving into the specifics of each roofing material, it’s essential to determine your roof replacement budget. If you have a tight budget, 3-tab or architectural asphalt shingles are the most affordable options. However, if you have some flexibility in your budget, luxury asphalt shingles, standing seam metal roofs, or premium roof systems may be worth the investment. Remember, it’s crucial to prioritize quality and long-term value over finding the cheapest price.
2. How Long Do I Want My Roof to Last?
Consider the desired lifespan of your roof. If you’re looking for an affordable option with a good lifespan, architectural asphalt shingles are a suitable choice. For increased durability and curb appeal, luxury asphalt shingles are a great option. If you want a roof that will last for generations, consider standing seam metal roofing or slate roofing. It’s important to align the lifespan of your roof with your long-term plans for your home to determine which roof type is best for you.
3. How Important is Curb Appeal to Me?
Curb appeal plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of your home. If you prefer a more understated look, architectural asphalt shingles are a practical choice. For increased curb appeal, luxury asphalt shingles or standing seam metal roofing offer more visually appealing options. If you want a roof that stands out and makes a statement, synthetic shingle roofing, cedar shake roofing, or slate roofing will provide the highest level of curb appeal.
4. Is a Roofing Material Warranty Important to Me?
Consider the importance of a roofing material warranty to protect your investment. Most asphalt shingles come with a warranty from the manufacturer, with the option to upgrade to an enhanced warranty for architectural or luxury asphalt shingles. Standing seam metal roofs typically come with a paint warranty. However, if a material warranty is crucial to you, cedar shake roofing and slate roofing may not be suitable options as they are made from natural materials and do not come with material warranties.
Which Roof Type is Best? Conclusion
Stunning residential roof replacement recently completed by Elite Exteriors
Choosing which roof type is best for your home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the cost, lifespan, pros and cons, and asking yourself key questions, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your budget, desired lifespan, curb appeal preferences, and the importance of a material warranty. Remember, the right roofing material will not only protect your home, but also enhance its overall appearance and value.
–
Elite Exteriors is the Southeast’s premier residential and commercial resource for unparalleled service, superior craftsmanship, and incomparable quality – all backed by an unprecedented lifetime labor and materials warranty! If you’re in the market for roof repairs, a roof replacement, or solar panel installation, give Elite Exteriors a call today at 470-350-3024 for a FREE initial consultation and inspection, or fill out our online form for more information.