Asphalt shingles enjoy wide popularity because they combine good looks and durability at an affordable cost. Plus, they are easier to set-up, saving you cash on labor fees as well. Secondary roofing materials such as a slate or metal usually cost more and in some cases up to 10X more, but they last significantly longer and look more pleasing.
Tile roofs are a popular choice in Florida regions because they deflect sun heat and blend with the Mediterranean style of local homes. While slate, in particular, is a more popular choice in the North East which is characterized by Victorian-style houses. Metal roofs are also a wide choice found in various country regions. The functionality of these roofing types varies according to the craftsmanship of the roofing expert. A metal roof may last half a century while slate roofs may impressively last a whole century with regular maintenance.
CR reviews asphalt shingles only, but we also provide info about false slate and tile. These two alternative material picks offer a faux look tile or slate, but they enable easy installation and cost much less compared to their original counterparts. For the sake of comparison, an original slate roof can cost $1500/per square, and thus the total cost may jump up to $100K.
Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Cost: $65-350/square
Asphalt shingles are constructed of fiberglass placed in-between asphalt and ceramic granules. The fiberglass material offers more power, while the asphalt is combined with minerals to make it water-resistant. The color of the shingles is attributed to the ceramic granules, which also help repel UV light and its deteriorating impact. Fairly light, affordable, and easy to set up, asphalt shingles are the best option for most homes.
They are offered in multiple sheet layers installed one shingle at a time, to mimic the appearance of more expensive shingles e.g. slate or cedar. They also come in three sub-categories. Basic. entry-level shingles are the thinnest and least expensive. Architectural shingles are also a level beyond ordinary 3-panel shingles.
They are a tad thicker and designed to mimic the look of more expensive woods. Multiple layer shingles are the costliest and thickest of these types and offer a similar look to wood blends. Only 3-tab shingles can be placed above a single layer of former shingles but check your manufacturer’s warranty to make sure you are eligible for an entire warranty before you perform the installation.
Faux Slate Roofing Shingles
Cost: $310-500/square
This mixed material looks similar to the real thing, even at a close angle, but the cost is much lower. It also weighs nearly the same as asphalt shingles and thus there is no need to upgrade the roof’s lining, as in the case of slate. Constructed using several materials e.g. rubber, clay, polymer, and asphalt, faux slate is more slippery compared to pure slate.
If you live in an area that is frequently exposed to snowfall, consider getting some snow shields to stop ice sheets from falling and hitting someone. Some fake slate types may also shatter under weather attacks. Since this is an artificial composite material with a nailing line, most roofers can set this up easily. The warranties that come with fake slate roofing are typically comparable to asphalt shingles and so you can anticipate them to hold up to 50 years.
Metal Roofs
Cost: $850-1140/square
Metal Roofs are often available in copper, aluminum, or allow strips and in different forms and textures. Copper is remarkably costly but over time, it develops a greenish aura that some people like. Metal roofing, similar to slate, can be thin, so it’s best to get some snow shields if you live in a colder area to stop ice from falling off and hitting a passer-by. A metal roof can also produce annoying sounds when there is a rainstorm as drops of water drip against its surface.
Some time ago, we tested steel metal roofing and found that it is prone to dent fairly easily, but there are some choices with a textured panel that conceal the dents and dings pretty nicely. Metal roofs are also efficient in deflecting sun heat, keeping your home cooler during the home summer season, which is a big plus if you live in a hot climate. Make sure that you work with a contractor who has proven experience working with this kind of material before as it is a very different task from installing asphalt shingles. A metal roof has an average lifespan of 50-100 years.