ASPHALT (Composition) SHINGLES are the most popular roofing material in the U.S. because of relatively low cost and comparable life expectancies. Asphalt shingles are available in three fire ratings; Class A, B or C, with Class A providing the greatest fire resistance. Also, for consumers in high-wind locations, many asphalt shingles carry a “wind resistance” label indicating that they’ve been manufactured and tested to demonstrate acceptable resistance.

Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors and can be reinforced with either organic or fiberglass materials. This reinforcement will have little effect on the shingle’s appearance. Both organic and fiberglass shingles are available in laminated (architectural) grades that offer a textured appearance. In areas of the country that are hot and humid, zinc granules can be applied to either organic or fiberglass products to protect against algae (fungus) attack. Both types of shingles have warranties up to 20, 30, 40 or 50 years.

METAL ROOFING PRODUCTS are primarily for commercial uses, but many homeowners choose this material for its durability, low-maintenance, resistance to fire and adverse weather conditions and is a great insulator. Metal roofing products are available in two types: panels and shingles. Metal shingles simulate traditional roof coverings such as wood shakes, tile and shingles. Metal shingles are lightweight, come in a variety of styles and colors and will not decompose. Drawbacks to metal roofs are higher cost and denting. 30 year, 50 year or lifetime warrantees are available for metal roofing materials.

SLATE Roofing tends to be more expensive than other roofing materials but is considered indestructible. It comes in different colors and grades, depending on where it was quarried. Many homes in the Northeast are still protected by this highly durable roofing product. An alternative to slate is manmade slate roofing materials that look virtually like real slate. They come in a variety of colors, are lightweight and resistant to moisture and adverse weather. Slate roofing materials have Class A fire ratings and are typically warranteed up to 50 years.

Tile roofing is available in clay or concrete and is a durable but fairly expensive roofing material. The array of styles, colors and finishes for tile is numerous.

One of the most popular styles in the Southwest and Florida are “Mission-style” and “Spanish” round-topped tiles. Flat styles also are available to create French and English looks. Tile roofs are capable of withstanding most adverse weather conditions and this resilience enables tile manufacturers to offer limited lifetime warranties.

Due to the heaviness of tile, please check with your roofing contractor to see if your house requires extra structural reinforcement. There are also lightweight alternatives that look and perform like real tile roofing.

Wood shingles and shakes are made from different woods such as cedar or southern pine redwood. The difference between the two are shingles are machine-sawn while shakes are hand-hewn and rougher looking. Because of their natural look and rustic charm, wood shingles and shakes are popular on the West Coast and parts of the Midwest. For brush fire prone areas, fire preservative treatment is recommended. Most wood roofs are covered by warranties but some local codes limit their use since they have a UL fire rating or none at all.

There are synthetic alternatives to wood shingles and shakes that simulate real wood but are much more durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions, have Class A fire rating and warranties up to 50 years.