From 2014 through 2019, average annual roofing sales in the U.S. increased from 3.9% to 14.2%. During this period, new and reconfigured roofing materials were added to the market in efforts to extend the life of the average home roof.
Of course, there have been refinements to traditional asphalt shingles to help them hold up better against the elements. They remain the most economical choice and are by far the most popular roofing material.
However, other materials have either entered the competitive arena or become more widespread and affordable roofing options. We’ll discuss the three best roofing material types in this article.
The Best Roofing Material on the Market
Naming the best residential roofing material is a subjective undertaking since what’s “best” has a lot to do with where you live and the type of house you own. That’s why we’ve selected the best roofing material for different budgets.
We’ve also considered what would be the most durable roofing types regardless of climate. For example, some roofing materials, like clay tile, hold up very well, but only in warmer climates.
1. Natural Slate
Slate roofing is the envy of the overwhelming majority of homeowners. For one thing, it can last a hundred years or more. It’s also a beautiful material that’s durable, recyclable, and energy-efficient.
Slate roofs are expensive, though. You can expect to pay $9 to $16 per sq ft or $900 to $1,600 per roofing square. That’s for the slate tiles or shingles themselves, plus additional materials and labor. The total cost for a new slate is at least $15,000-24,000.
Note that a unique type of roofing expertise is needed for a slate roof. Slate is also fragile, especially when being cut, and it’s quite heavy—too heavy for some houses to support.
2. Metal
Metal roofs are growing in popularity by leaps and bounds these days. Today, 11% of homes in the U.S. have metal roofs—made of aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc.
Metal roofs are known for energy efficiency and the ability to insulate in both warm and cold weather. They’re also reasonably soundproof. Contrary to popular belief, you do not hear a loud “plunk” with every raindrop that falls.
A roof made from metal shingles is moderately affordable at $6.50-14.00 per sq ft or $650-1,400 per roofing square. An entire roofing project costs $12,000-20,000, and the roof can last up to fifty years. That’s a pretty good value!
3. Asphalt Shingles
Among types of roofing shingles, asphalt is by far the most common and popular. It’s affordable, and today’s varieties hold up well due to innovations in their construction, such as the addition of fiberglass to some asphalt shingle material.
Having asphalt shingles installed costs an average of $1.00-4.00 per sq ft or $100-400 per roofing square. With supplies and labor, the new roof should cost about $6,000-10,000. You can expect asphalt shingles to have 15-20 years of useful life.
The New Roof Is Ready!
Each of the residential roofing types we discussed here is what we’d consider the best roofing material for a given set of preferences, budget, and longevity. We believe all of the three are excellent values.
Don’t place your bets on a single roofing type, though, until you’ve received advice from at least a couple of professional roofers. We can ask you to consider things you might not have thought of already.
In fact, why not reach out to us now? We’re Reliable Roofing, Siding & Windows. We’ve been in business in Stoughton, MA, for over a decade, and we’re ready to help you build the roof of your dreams.
