When constructing or renovating a building, the roof is one of the most important parts. It protects the residents from outdoor elements, and climate, and also increases the property’s overall aesthetic and curb appeal. Today when it comes to roofing, various types of roof materials for a house are available in the market, from modern residential metal roofing to traditional clay tiles. This article explains the different house roof types, pricing, and advantages. This will help you to select the right types of roofing materials.
1. Asphalt Shingles
*Approx Cost Range: $1.50 to $4.50 or more per square foot
Today, the most popular roofing material in America is asphalt shingles! This material is durable, affordable, and looks great with modern and traditional homes. They’re also relatively easy to install, repair, or replace. Asphalt shingles are available from simple basic designs to premium 3-tab or architectural patterns. Based on your architecture and budget, you can select these types of roof materials for a house.
2. Metal Roofs
*Approx Cost Range: $6 to $14 per square foot
If you want something highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, metal roofing will be great.
Metal roofs are available in various materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper, which can be customized according to your house’s design. They can withstand harsh weather conditions such as hail, rainstorms, and fire. These types of roofing materials will usually last 30 to 50 years, but with proper care and maintenance, they can even last up to 75 years.
3. Metal Shingles
*Approx Cost Range: $8 to $16 per square foot
Metal shingles are fabricated with stamped metal and have a high-quality baked-on coating to mimic the look of other types of roofing, such as asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, or clay tiles. Metal shingles are available in various designs, colors, and textures. If you don’t like the look of metal roofing, you can go with metal shingles. These house roof types will offer classy and elegant looks along with the benefits of metal roofing. On average, these roof materials for a house can last 30 to 50 years.
4. Wood Shingles/shake
*Approx Cost Range: $4.50 to $9 per square foot (shingles); $6.50 to $14 per square foot (shakes)
As its name suggests, wood shingles or shakes are made from cedar or redwood. They offer a traditional and rustic appearance, making your building more welcoming and cozy. This is why these roofing materials have been used in luxury homes.
However, these roof types for homes require regular maintenance as they’re prone to rot, pets, and mold. Also, if you live in areas prone to wildfires, you should avoid wood shingles roofing.
5. Slate Shingles
*Approx Cost Range: $10 to $30 per square foot
One of the famous natural roof materials for a house is slate roofing. They’re made
from a rock that is extremely strong and durable. Slate roofing looks beautiful and luxurious and can last even for centuries. However, this one is expensive compared to other house roof types and requires a professional to install it. So if your budget is more, you can definitely try slate shingles for your home.
6. Clay Tiles
*Approx Cost Range: $10 to $18 per square foot
Do you want the Mediterranean or Spanish style look for your house? If yes, start with the clay tile roofing!
These roof materials for a house are not something new; they actually dated back 5,000 years. These roofs look beautiful, durable, and perfect for residences located in hot climates. They require less maintenance and absorb moisture. You can get them in various designs, colors, and styles. However, clay tiles can be a bit expensive to install or replace.
7. Concrete Tiles
*Approx Cost Range: $10 to $20 per square foot
Do you like the appearance of clay tiles but don’t have a budget for that? No worries, get the concrete tiles!
Concrete tiles are available in various colors and styles and can offer a similar appearance to clay tiles. This is why they’re one of the favorite house roof types for various architectural styles. These roof materials for a house are durable, fire-resistant, and last for many years.
8. Synthetic Slate Shingles
*Approx Cost Range: $9 to $12 per square foot
Another excellent alternative for slate shingles is synthetic slate shingles or rubber shingles. They’re made from engineered polymers, recycled plastic, and rubber. These roof materials for a house are lightweight and durable. You can achieve the look of real slate shingles at a very low or reasonable price. Synthetic slate shingles can last up to 40 to 50 years.
9. Solar Roof Shingles
*Approx Cost Range: $35,000 to $75,000
A solar roof will be a great option for people looking for ways to cost-cutting on their energy bills!
Solar roof shingles or solar shingles are one of the modern roofing materials for a house. Here solar panels will be installed on the roof, which protects and generates electricity for your entire home. The only disadvantage of this environment-friendly roofing is that it is expensive and needs an expert in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) for installation.
10. Green Roofing
*Approx Cost Range: Varies widely
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are distinct roof materials for a house. You can also call it a small terrace garden or living garden on the roof. Here various beautiful plants and vegetation, including grasses and wildflowers, are placed on the roof. The initial installation cost might be higher than other materials, but green roofs offer energy savings and other benefits. Usually, these roofs can last up to 30 to 50 years.
11. Membrane Roofing
*Approx Cost Range: $4 to $8 per square foot
Another roofing material for a house on the list is membrane roofing. There are several types of membrane roof materials, such as Neoprene (polychloroprene), TPO (thermoplastic olefin), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
These roof types for homes are lightweight, easy to install, and affordable. You can use this on your flat or low-slope roofs for waterproofing and UV resistance. If properly maintained, membrane roofs will stay for 20 to 35 years.
12. Built-Up Roof (Bur)
*Approx Cost Range: $2.50 to $5 per square foot
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is made from multiple layers of different materials. These roofs are commonly used for flat roofs or low-pitch roofs. They provide excellent protection against water, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions. It requires roofing experts for installation but can last easily for about 20 to 30 years.
13. Rolled Roofing
*Approx Cost Range: $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot
Here is another budget-friendly roofing option for you, rolled roofing! This one is widely used for sheds and low-sloped roofs. You can easily and quickly install them without any professional help.
FAQ
Some of the most durable roofing materials for a house are metal roofing and slate shingles. With proper installation and maintenance, these roofs can last for many years.
The environment-friendly roofing options are green roofing and solar panel roofing. They can protect your home from climate conditions and reduce your energy bills.
While selecting the roofing materials, consider factors like your house style, weather conditions, durability, and budget. You can also consult roofing experts to know the exact roofing cost for your property.
Final Words
So this is all about the roof materials for a house. Several options exist, from traditional wood shingles to durable residential metal roofing. Consider factors like cost, climate, aesthetics, and budget while selecting the suitable roofing material for your building.
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