You probably see various residential roof types in your neighborhood. Maybe there’s nothing but asphalt shingles, or maybe there’s a mixture of traditional or modern roofing types. Whatever it is, it’s best to understand your own roof’s type and what kind of care it needs. Let’s look at a few different types of roofs—how they work and what their life expectancies are.
Modern Roofing Materials
Most modern homes have steep or pitched roofs, such as gable or hip roofs. Some common pitched roof materials include:
Composite Shingles
Composite shingle roofs, also known as asphalt shingle roofs, are the most common residential roofs in the U.S. On these roofs, overlapping shingles sit on top of layers of roofing felt and adhesive material. They come in a few different subtypes that have their own advantages, including architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles. Composition roofs are affordable, and they last around 20 to 30 years.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are also extremely common. They come in two main types:
- Standing seam: These metal roofs consist of steel or aluminum roofing panels. They are completely fireproof and they stand up against heavy snowfall. These roofs are also popular in warm climates because they reflect heat extremely well. They last about 30 to 50 years. Materials on these roofs are recyclable, so you don’t have to create waste when you have yours replaced.
- Metal shingles: Metal shingles also last 30 to 50 years and offer many of the same benefits as their standing seam counterparts. However, they offer a more traditional roofing look, more similar to that of asphalt shingles or clay tiles.
Clay Roofs
Clay roof tiles are extremely durable, and their unglazed, red color gives homes a rustic, terra cotta feel. They can also be glazed if you prefer, and that’s when they become ceramic tiles. If maintained properly, a clay tile roof can last for 100 years or more.
Slate Roofs
Slate roof tiles are the longest lasting roofing materials. These roofs often last for a century or more with good maintenance. This roof style is a significant investment, but if you invest in maintaining it, you probably won’t have to have your slate roof replaced.
