10 Roofing Materials to Consider for Your Home

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The average Floridian homeowner spends approximately $5,000 to $13,500 on a new roof. But what’s the best roofing material? 

1. Cedar Wood Shingles

Real natural wood is an irresistible classic for many homeowners.  Cedarwood shingles are commonly seen on Victorian, Cabin-style, or Colonial type homes and have been regarded by many roof designers,’ the material that naturally ages over time.’ 

• Clean lines, elegant, low profile and smart-looking appeal
• Expensive to install
• Life span: 20 - 40 years
• Resistant against high winds (200 miles/hour)
• Requires regular maintenance

2. Asphalt Shingles

The ‘wow' factor finish makes this roofing material the most common and economical choice across the U.S. Available in various styles and colors.

• Durable
• Easy installation
• Life span: 50 years
• Most affordable
• Not so resistant to ice dams and snow
• Prone to leaks
• Tend to fade over time
• Warranty: 40 years (most brands)

Classes: 

• 3-Tab: Cheaper, least durable 
• Architectural (Laminated): Good quality, more weather resistant 
• Premium: Thicker, most weather-resistant, expensive 

3. Synthetic-Composite Shingles

Most roofing specialists refer to this roofing material as the newest and most intriguing type. Synthetic-Composite Shingles, often called faux shingles, are a modern-day engineered innovation due to their synthetic-composite material. They resemble cedar shingles, natural slate tiles and shakes.

• 50-year warranty
• Engineered-plastic composite made
• Fire-resistant 
• Highly-resilient
• Life span: 100 years or more
• Rot-proof and weatherproof
• Virtually indestructible

4. Cedar Wood Shakes

Thicker and rougher than shingles, Cedar Wood Shakes are sawn from logs. Regarded by many as a truly green building material and considered a premium roof, due to their unique features.

• Displays character and deep shadow lines
• Expensive (due to difficult production and installation)
• Life span: 20 - 40 years
• Natural beauty and distinctive texture
• Regular required maintenance
• Rustic and robust appearance

 5. Slate Roofing

The champion of all roofing products, from the 1600's until today. Natural slate roofing has the reputation of a first-rate roofing material. A slate roof can lasts hundreds of years and requires little maintenance.

• Difficult to install (requires building engineers)
• Fireproof
• Heavy-weight material
• Life span: 100 years or more
• mildew-resistant
• Super durable
• Very expensive

6. Metal Roofing

Leading choice for homeowners who prefer New England colonials to Carolina Coastal Cottage styles. 

Metal Roofing is gaining popularity over asphalt shingles. The major factor that separates metal roofing over other materials is its superior longevity and durability. Metal Roofing can last 5 decades or more (with care), considered as a “lifetime” roofing material by many.

• Best for regions with heavy snowstorms and ice dams
• Does not rot, fade or warp
• Easy installation
• Energy efficient
• Highly durable
• Life span: 50 years
• Recyclable
• Resistant against leaks, hail, wind and fire 
• Variety of available colors

7. Clay and Concrete Tiles

Featured for the unique and striking appeal, Clay and Concrete tiles can be easily molded into different shapes and profiles. An ideal choice for homeowners who prefer Spanish or Mediterranean-styles.

• Difficult installation (requires engineers)
• Durable
• Earthen clay-made or Portland concrete-made
• Energy efficient
• Expensive
• Fire and wind resistant
• Heavy material
• Life-span: 80 years

8. Flat Roof Materials

Best choice for flat or low sloped roof houses. Most commonly seen on Middle-eastern house designs. Flat roofing is a highly specialized field and requires flat roofing specialists for installation. 

Three Single-Ply Choices:

• EPDM Rubber Roof: Cheap, most popular
• PVC Roofing: Most expensive, good quality and easy to repair.
• TPO Roofing: Fastest sales growth and has the combined benefits of EPDM and PVC

9. Built-up Roof

Typically built for flat roofs with heavy traffic. Made from several layers of asphalt, gravel or tar and adhesive.

• Difficult to remove snow
• Life-span: 20 to 25 years  
• Sticky during the summer season

10. Clay Tile Roof

For homeowners who prefer Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes, Clay Tile roofing is the unrivaled option. Considered a high-end roofing choice because of its durability and strength, Clay Tile roofs are known for their aesthetic appeal, beautifully carved shapes, colorful appearance and stylish designs. 

• Best for hot, coastal areas with salty air
• Heavyweight
• Leak-free
• Simple
• Super durable against high winds, hail and fire
• Insusceptible to moisture, rot and mold

Florida’s Leader in Roofing | Sabal Construction & Roofing LLC 

Sabal Construction & Roofing LLC installs, repairs and upgrades roofs using premier roofing materials. We provide high-quality and affordable roofing to Southwest Florida and the surrounding areas.