When replacing your roof, there are countless materials that you can choose from, each having their own strengths and weaknesses. Some are more suitable for harsh weather conditions, while others specialize in insulating the air in your home. Because of the amount of different roofing materials, it may be hard to truly find the best option for you and your home. To help with your search for the right one, here are 5 roofing materials to consider for your house.

Composite/Asphalt Shingles

Composite shingles are a popular roofing material. They are quite affordable and if they are maintained with care, they can potentially have at least a 20-year life expectancy. They are also long-lasting and resistant to the harsher weather conditions like heavy rain and snow. Another advantage of composite shingles is that replacing or repairing individual shingles is quite simple because new components are readily available. When selecting composite shingles, bear in mind that they are prone to moisture build up. With that being said, you must keep an eye out for moss and plant development on your roof if you have these type of shingles

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are another popular roofing material, due to its attractive appearance and durability. Installing wood shingles on your roof may raise the value of your home, but they are more costly and require more upkeep than composite shingles. They do have a longer life expectancy of 30 years, which may help to balance the initial expense, since a replacement will most likely not be required as quickly and as often. Wood shingles, like composite shingles, are prone to moss and plant growth as well, so they will require constant cleaning and care.

Metal Roofing

A metal roof has a life expectancy of 40-80 years, which makes it one of the top three materials for long-term usage. Metal roofs are not as good as others in terms of aesthetics, but they are getting better constructed and, in several cases, may mimic the appearance of other roofing materials such as wood/cedar shingles. They are also low-maintenance, which might also be attractive to new homebuyers. A metal roof, unlike other materials, need a unique set of capabilities to install. It is critical, as with any other material, that it be placed correctly. Check that the roofing firm has history installing metal roofing before you commit to any plans you may have.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are more commonly found in hotter climates, but they may be used in any environment because of their resilience, which gives them the longest life expectancy of any roofing material – 100 years or more. Clay is resistant to moss and plant development and does not expand and contract with temperature changes. However, because clay tiles are heavier than other substances used for roofing, your present roof may not be used to hold the added weight of this material, which can lead to various problems.


Slate, like clay, is a heavier roofing material that should only be used if you are building a new house or are willing to have more framework installed to your roof. It also costs more than other materials, like composite, wood, and metal shingles. It is, nevertheless, exceedingly resilient, fire resistant, and has the second longest life expectancy. When correctly placed, it can endure at least 60 years with the potential to last up to 100. Furthermore, slate roofs are aesthetically beautiful since the slate is sometimes put in several hues or textures, which gives each home a distinctive aesthetic.

There are many roofing materials out there, and each one of them have their distinct set of traits that separate them from the rest. When all things are considered, like durability, longevity and price, the 5 materials that you should consider are composite/asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal roofing, clay tiles and slate. All of the materials listed provide the best results for the amount that they cost, keeping your home in pristine condition and protecting it from your area’s environmental conditions.