Asphalt Shingles

• Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing surface in the United States. They are durable and relatively inexpensive. Most asphalt shingle manufacturers guarantee the workmanship of their product for 20 to 30 years. Asphalt shingles come in many different styles and color, making them the most versatile of all roofing materials. Asphalt shingles come in several different styles; they can be a standard 3-tab shingle or textured to give your roof a more fashionable look.
  
  

Wooden Shakes and Shingles

• Wooden shakes are another type of material to consider when planning a new roof. Wooden shakes and shingles provide a classic look to a roof, and over time, with wear and fading will give the roof the look of being a part of the natural landscaping. Wooden roofing material is relatively easy to install but must be installed to allow air to flow around the material. Pressure-treated strips of wood must be installed to attach the wooden shingles to, so that airflow is maintained. Wooden roofing materials require more maintenance and should be cleaned and treated once a year. A properly maintained roof should provide 30 or more years of functionality.
  
  

Metal

• Metal roofing materials are becoming increasingly popular throughout the country. Metal roofs are relatively inexpensive, very durable and easy to install. Metal roofing materials are typically made of tin or aluminum, but can be made of steel or copper. The type of metal used will determine the price of a metal roofing system. Metal roofing systems can be either pre-engineered for the specific dimensions of a home or can be individual metal shingles. A properly maintained metal roof will last well in excess of for 50 years.
  
  

Slate and Ceramic Tiles

• Slate and ceramic tile roofs are the most durable of all available roofing materials. These types of roofs are commonly seen in Florida and California and give a home a Mediterranean look. Slate and ceramic roofs are very expensive to buy and very labor intensive to install. The structural requirements for this type of roofing material are much higher due to the weight of the materials and are not suitable for all homes. The maintenance requirements for this type of roof are relatively low and a properly installed and maintained roof will last for 80 years or more.
  
  

Considerations

• When planning a roof, many things must be considered. The cost and maintenance of the roof should be the primary consideration, but there are other considerations as well. Many western states require that roofing materials have a higher level of fire resistance than other states, thereby eliminating the use of wooden roofing materials. Many residential developments also have home-owners associations that will only allow specific types of roofing materials. The effective life expectancy of the materials should also be considered. Most roofing materials have a life expectancy of at least 20 years, but weather conditions will play a major role in the actual life of the material.