Most homeowners do not know enough about available residential roof types. At some point, almost every homeowner will need to repair or replace their roof—especially considering our Western New York winters!
The roof types and differing prices make deciding on new a roof system difficult. At Weather Resistors, we’re here to dispel some of that confusion so you can find the right roof covering for your home.
Throughout time, there have been different types of roof coverings used to protect homes from rain, snow, hurricanes, and other inclement weather.
For instance, thatched straw roofing gave way to wooden shingles.
Of course, today there are various roofing materials available including asphalt shingles, metal roofing panels, and more. The options are endless. We’re here to help you sort out which roof type will best fit your needs and budget.
Here we will list 10 of the most common residential roof types and materials used on homes, along with their properties and differences. We’re also going to explain their pros, cons, life expectancy, and cost, to help you develop a better understanding of your roofing options.
As you can see from the diagram above, there are many types of roof designs for residential homes. When deciding what materials to go with when you are doing a residential roof replacement there are several factors to consider before you decide what new roof material to go with.
Let’s explore possible roof surfaces for your next residential roofing project!
As the most widely used roofing cover, asphalt shingles are easy set-up and relatively inexpensive. Asphalt shingles are primarily used in residential roofing with many roof styles.
Life Expectancy: These roofs can last anywhere from 15 years to 30 years. A great warranty can also prolong the life of a shingle roof. Expert installation is critical, so make sure to hire a professional that you trust.
The best part —Weather Resistors offer a 40 year warranty on New Roof Replacement built with asphalt shingles.
Pros: An asphalt shingle roof is fairly inexpensive and low maintenance.
Cons: The granules that cover the shingles and help protect them can be dislodged during hail storms and bad weather, weakening the roof.
Average Cost: This roofing material typically cost $180 to $241 installed per square. A square covers approximately one hundred square feet. But the only way to know for sure is to request a free roofing estimate from your local roofing company.
Seen most often on older, historic homes, wood and cedar have a nostalgic aesthetic. It brings us back to earlier days of residential roofing. Though they can be charming, the wear and tear on wooden roofs may be more common and apparent. This decreases their value since they won’t look great for decades like other roofing systems.
Life Expectancy: Like asphalt, the typical life of a wood shingle roof is 30-40 years, given ideal conditions.
Pros: Wood Shakes and Cedar Shingles both have proven to be highly impact-resistant and have tested to withstand wind speeds of up to 245 miles per hour (which your house will never see).
Asphalt shingles will, however, blow off a roof in extremely high winds.
Cons: This type of roof is resistant to insects, but not large amounts of rain. Cedar shakes in a damp environment are susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot. Some building codes where fire is a danger have restricted or banned the use of wood shingling altogether. Cedar is a high maintenance material.
Also to note, in terms of property valuations, replacing a cedar roof with asphalt will instantly diminish the value of your property. On some historic homes, as well as homes surrounded by other homes roofed with cedar, such as in historic districts/neighborhoods, this may not even be an option.
Average Cost: This roofing material can cost anywhere from $650 and $1,100 per square, installed.
Wood shakes and cedar shingles can be expensive, but they add a priceless historic appeal that’s worth every penny.
Before we explain this roof type it’s important to note that, in the past, slate and tile roof shingles have fallen out of favor because of their lack of durability.
However, today these roofing materials are typically used to maintain a historic appearance on older properties without losing durability. Today, with new innovative technology, these roofing systems are more reliable and durable than ever before.
Life Expectancy: Though they can be pricier than some of the other roofing options, slate and roof tile shingles can have up to three times the longevity of asphalt shingles. Slate roofs can and should be routinely built to last at least a century. In fact, 150 years is a reasonable expectation of a slate roof’s longevity if it is properly constructed and installed.
Pros: These roofs are built to last a lifetime, beautiful to look at, fire resistant, and eco-friendly.
Cons: This is a heavy material and not all homes can support the weight. Also, if you need a roof repair, it will be hard to find matching replacement tiles because they are typically sold in lots.
Average Cost: This roofing material typically costs $6,000 to $8,000 installed per square.
There are many types of clay roofs. In fact, clay tile has one of the longest life expectancies among historic roofing materials. Clay or concrete can be shaped in many different ways, even to the point of looking like wood shake. While it’s most common to find clay tile roofing on Florida roofs or California roofs, it can work with almost any design scheme.
Life Expectancy: A roof constructed of concrete, clay, or slate may be the last roof you will ever need. Clay or slate tiles can last more than 100 years, while most concrete tile comes with a 50-year warranty. Slate is one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials, with a lifespan of 100 to 150 years or more.
Pros: They have aesthetic appeal and versatility. They are durable, have a long lifespan, and will save you money in the long run.
Cons: Concrete and Clay tiles are great roofing materials, however, there are a few drawbacks. They are heavy materials which makes it more difficult for the roof structure to adequately support the weight of concrete tiles vs. clay tiles. In some cases, concrete tiles are not recommended for use on buildings, unless the roof framing is reinforced to support the added weight.
Average Cost: This roofing material typically costs $400 to $1,000 installed per square.
Sheet metal roofs were originally seen during the 1700s but did not become popular until the 1800s. The earliest metal roofs were made of copper and lead, whereas more recent historic buildings included iron roofs.
If you’re looking for roofing that’s durable, light-weight and low-maintenance, metal roofing sheets can be a great option. They’re easy to install and can be placed on top of an existing roof. Not to mention they’re great at shedding water and snow to avoid roof leakage.
However, if installed improperly, small mistakes can lead to big problems over the years. Homeowners should make sure to hire a trusted professional that has experience in metal roof installation.
The best part?
Not only are metal roofs affordable, but you can also get them in almost any color to best compliment your home’s siding.
The metal panels that you can use for your home varies. There are many types of metal you can use for your new roof.
Here are some common types of metal used on residential roofs:
Life Expectancy: Metal roofs, such as aluminum or steel shingles, can last for 50 years and often longer. Copper and zinc roofs can often last well over 100 years. This means that a typical metal roof will last about 3 times longer than a typical roof constructed from asphalt shingles.
Pros: Sheet metal roofing is extremely durable, fireproof, and inexpensive. It is lightweight, resulting in low wear and tear on the roof’s structure. Also, the durability of a metal roof is second only to that of a slate roof.
Cons: With the exception of copper roofing, metal roofing is susceptible to rusting and corrosion. It can also be dented by normal environmental conditions.
Average Cost: This roofing material typically costs $900 to $1,000 per square installed.
As an environmentally-friendly option, green roofs are exactly as they sound–green! Eco-type roofs are also known as living roofs and garden roofs. This unique option has a waterproofing membrane to keep your home dry. Above it, there’s an absorbent surface that serves as a platform to grow different types of vegetation.
However, it’s important to note that the “green roof” concept works better on flat roofs.
Life Expectancy: We only have rough estimates of the durability and life of eco-roofing, due to it being a new technology. Manufacturers claim these systems last as long as asphalt roofs which have about a 30-50 year lifespan.
Pros: Environmentally-friendly and energy efficient.
Cons: As mentioned, newer systems may have unforeseen problems.
Average Cost: A green roof typically costs $1,000 to $2,500 to install per square. Being a newer roof system, costs are higher, but we expect prices to decrease over time.
Newly available on the market, solar tiles can be a part of your roofing structure, absorbing sunlight to save on energy costs. Although we don’t currently offer solar options, Weather Resistors Roofingpledges to stay on the cutting edge of all roofing advances. In fact, we are actively seeking industry allies to begin solar installations.
Life Expectancy: We only have rough estimates of durability and life expectancy, due to solar being a newer technology. Manufacturers claim that these systems last as long as asphalt roofs which have about a 30-50 year lifespan.
Pros: There are many benefits to solar roofing. For instance, solar tiles will lower the cost of your electric bill, improve the value of your home, and reduce your carbon footprint.
Cons: Solar doesn’t work for every roof type, it can be expensive, and it’s not ideal to install if you plan to move in the near future.
Average Cost: Of course, solar roofs will cost more than a standard roof. However, there are significant cost savings from the power generated. This newer roof system will cost on average $2,200 to $3,500 to install per square.
This eco-friendly roof option is primarily used for commercial properties. A flat roof for residential properties may not be the most sustainable option. It’s not as feasible due to the weight of snow and fallen leaves throughout Buffalo and WNY’s colder seasons. The exception is when it’s a larger property, like a building with condominiums or an apartment complex.
Common types of flat roofs and materials are:
Life Expectancy: Flat roofs last for 40-50 years.
Pros: Durable and long-lasting.
Cons: Pounding in inclement due to improper drainage design.
Average Cost: Due to the heavy-duty materials used, the cost of a flat roof is higher than that of residential roofing. However, their longer life expectancy justifies the cost. Different types of flat roofs can cost from $300 to $1,000 per square, installed.
Are great for home conservatories. Conservatory roof glass types vary.
White roofing, or “Cool Roofing,” uses light-colored materials to reflect light and absorb less heat than other roofing materials. Similar to light clothing or light-colored cars reflecting light, white roofs help maintain a cooler temperature within the home.
Life Expectancy: Cool roofing lasts longer than a standard roof, considering that it doesn’t absorb heat the same way. The average life span of a white roof can exceed 20 years.
Pros: Low maintenance, because lower roof temperatures lessen the need for maintance. Lower energy costs and improved indoor comforrt, especially in rooms such as garages and sunrooms that don’t have access to the home’s air conditioning.
Cons: Oddly enough, these roofs can contribritue to global warming and pose a risk for the environment. The reflected sunlight can potentially cause a reaction that increases overall sunlight in the surrounding area.
Average Cost: Surprisingly, installing a white reflective roof does not tend to cost more than a standard roof. It’s also important to consider the potential savings on air conditioning costs in the summer months. To spray your roofing with a reflective covering, the cost will be slightly less. There are also white covers that can be placed over an existing roof. Due to the variety of methods used in white roof installation, it’s best to consult a trusted roofing professional to sort out your options and costs.
Those are the most common types of roof coverings for residential roofing clients. For more information on which type of roof may be best for your home, contact us today. We can help!
Considering your roof type and materials, insurers consider type of roof into their policy rebuild estimates.
Residential roofs that are asphalt shingles, tile, slate, metal, or concrete shingles are the most durable but can be costly to replace.
Even so, roofs that are more durable cost less to insure, since they’re less likely to need work.
Here’s the roof types we covered above listed from lowest to highest insurance cost for most states:
Metal roofing is durable and virtually fireproof. Considering decreased maintenance costs, as well as less risk of damage to your home’s interior, metal roofs are the best option for your insurance company.
Though tile cracks more easily than some of its competitors, it provides great insulation and doesn’t burn or rot. Slate is tougher and resists rotting, fire, and bugs. It’s virtually maintenance-free, which poses less risk for a potential insurance policy.
Asphalt roofing decays more easily than the first two on our list, However, these shingles are the most common type of roof, which means that insurance companies are used to providing coverage for them. The strengths of asphalt include durability, relatively long life span, and affordability.
Whether made of shingles or shakes, the most prominent downfall of wooden roofs is that they aren’t fire resistant at all. Some insurance companies won’t cover a wood roof, and others require you to apply a fire retardant treatment to cover your home.
Though they may be beneficial for the environment, having a green roof can potentially increase your insurance costs. Coverage will vary among different insurance companies. Due to the unique nature of growing plants and grass on your roof, additional “landscape insurance” may be required for full coverage. Insurance companies are concerned with several factors including recycling of materials, potential leaks, and differentiating between roof tiles and the vegetation that’s growing on the surface.
Considering the increasing popularity of solar roofing in the past decade, it is covered by most insurance companies. However, solar tiles are more expensive to replace, so it may increase insurance costs. The quality of equipment and installation is crucial when choosing a solar roofing system.
Especially in the inclement weather conditions of western New York, flat roofs will require more maintenance and repair. Therefore, they often pose a potential risk to insurance companies. As we’ve previously advised, flat roofing is typically only used for commercial and condo-style properties.
Glass roofing is made of, well, glass. That means it is more easily damaged and dirtied than its competitors. Glass roofing often has poor insulation, which can increase energy costs in the colder months. Insurance companies may see glass roofing as a risk, considering the potential for leaking and water damage within the home’s interior.
When installed properly, white or “cool” roofing can save homeowner’s money. Though they will deflect heat and decrease air conditionaing costs, in colder climates the risks may outweight the benefits.
In cold weather, roofs can accumulate moisture. The winter ice and snow in western New York may cause more maintenance and repair costs over time, which poses a potential risk for insurance companies.
It goes without saying—the newer the roof, the better your home insurance rate. Old roofs are insurance risks, and some insurers may refuse to cover an old roof.
Class can also factor into insurance costs. However, this is more likely to apply to commercial properties. When deciding you roofing class materials looking for a product with a UL rating will help. The NFPA can also help guide you on what roof covering is best for commercial buildings.
While it may not be as important as the material, your roof’s shape could also impact your home insurance price. The most common roof shapes are gable and hip. Though both are found often on homes throughout Buffalo and Western New York, they vary in terms of insurance risk and cost.
A gable roof, found commonly throughout Buffalo and Western New York, this roof is shaped like an upside-down V. These roofs can be vulnerable to high winds, and may cost more to insure.
The hip roof usually has four sides and costs more to build. However, its durability and resistance to wind may help bring down your insurance costs.
These are not as common as other roof types. Primarily used for commercial properties, a flat roof for residential properties may not be the most sustainable option. It’s not feasible due to the weight of snow and fallen leaves throughout WNY’s colder seasons. The exception is when it’s a larger property, like a building with condominiums or an apartment complex, in which case a flat roof would be less likely to increase insurance costs.
To conclude, there’s no such thing as the “worst” roof type—you just need to know what roofing material will best suit your home needs and style.
For most homeowners, asphalt shingles are still the best buy when considering cost, upkeep, longevity, and ease of installation. They are also a great option for most residential roof architecture. Typically, the more expensive the roofing materials the longer they will last. Of course, Weather Resistors Roofing is ready to install your brand new asphalt roof.
There are many types of roof tiles not covered in this article. However, if you’re looking to try something new, we hope that our industry knowledge has helped you weigh the pros and cons.
Keep in mind that residential roof types are different from commercial and industrial roof types. The roofs covered in this article are meant for homes.
Here’s some solid advice from an experienced residential roofing company—It’s important to work with someone local that you trust.
Our company will be honest and tell you whether repair or replacement is your best option. We’ll work together to find the best roofing option to meet your budget and your needs.
Do you want an estimate for any of these roof types? Are you looking for a fast, fair, and free estimate on your next roofing project? We provide expert roofing services!
Call or contact Weather Resistors Roofing today at (716) 222-ROOF.
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