Whether it is the extreme heat during summer or the subzero winter conditions, it is your roof that experiences the full fury of the different seasons. The right roof can protect you against these conditions, especially the long winters that include a combination of heavy snow, ice, and high winds. Exposure to the elements can place a lot of strain on your roof. This is why it is so important to install the right roof on your home.

Popular Types of Roofs

Whether installing a new roof or replacing the old roof, you should consider the following 5 most common types of roofs used on residential homes:

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are by far the most common type of roofing material. Modern shingles come with fiberglass reinforcement, which further increases the material’s longevity. There are many pros that make composition shingles so popular:

• Ease of installation
• Lowest supply & installation costs
• Availability in various colors and shapes

These roofs are durable and can last up to 30 years when well-maintained. Aesthetic versatility means you can match them with your home’s design.

2. Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are considered the second most common type of roof material. They have been in use for centuries and are valued for their aesthetic appeal and versatility. 

Some of the pros of wood shingles are as follows:

• A rustic and natural appearance
• Adding a traditional charm to your home
• Increased home curb appeal
• Feature smooth and cleaner edges and surfaces
• Natural oil increases resistance against insects and moisture

Commonly used wood options include cedar, pressure-treated pine, and redwood. Wood shingles can last up to 10 years longer than their asphalt counterparts. Treated wood shingles offer Class A fire protection and require less maintenance.

3. Metal Roofs

When it comes to dealing with extreme weather, metal roofs offer excellent resistance. These roofs are available in panel and shingle styles. The material options include aluminum, zinc, copper, and stainless steel. 

The key benefits of metal roofing include:

• Exceptionally long lasting
• Costs similar to asphalt shingles
• Lightweight & recyclable
• Require minimal maintenance

Many metal roofs can last more than 50 years. They have exceptional resistance to rot, UV radiation, and fire. With the latest metal roof options, you can choose from different colors. Besides, these roofs are available in designs such as shingles, shakes, and tiles.

4. Tile Roofs

The popularity of tile roofs has shown a dramatic increase, especially for new homes. Tile roofs are known for their versatility. The different material options include concrete tiles, clay tiles, and fiber-cement tiles. They are available in several color options. Over time, the cost of supply and installation has come down.

Some of the main advantages of tile roofs are as follows:

• Excellent resistance to rot, fire, and pests
• Ease of maintenance
• Availability in a wide range of designs & textures

Tile roofs can last 50 years or longer. They can help you give an upscale look to your residential property. You can choose light-colored tiles for greater protection from the sun.

5. Rubber Roofs

Rubber roofs are gaining popularity, as they are designed to look like shingles. While rubber has been used for centuries for waterproofing and sealing, it is only recently that it is being used for residential roofing.

The pros of rubber roofs include:

• Exceptional durability
• Ease of maintenance & repair
• Longevity & resistance to fire

Rubber roofs are black and tend to offer high solar absorbance. They help increase your home’s insulating effects. You can expect your rubber roofing to last 50 years or more.

So, these are the 5 most common types of roofs used for homes. Now that you know about the key features and benefits of the popular material options, it can become easier for you to make the right choice.