Best Residential Roofing Materials and Its Costs

Making investments in a new roof installation is a significant choice for every homeowner. It may impact your property’s entire structure plus exterior value, but it involves a high price. One can choose from numerous choices of residential roofing materials, such as tile, shingles made of asphalt, metals, and even more. Anybody considering installing an entirely new roof would probably want to think about choosing a more modern or durable roofing material rather than their old, pre-existing roof.

Installing a new roof is an important choice, so it’s crucial to make sure that you’re choosing wisely. You should therefore look into your options and collect as much knowledge as possible about them. Before you start studying about them, it would be best to be mindful of the main types of residential roofing materials used on residential roofs. When choosing the roofing type, you must consider various factors like longevity, cost of residential roofing materials, issues with strength, and appearance. Here are five roofing materials to keep in mind whether you are constructing a new house or updating an old one.

1. Metal

For homeowners who prioritize durable and long-lasting roof alternatives, roofing made of metal may be an excellent option. A metal roofing system could give your residence safety and convenience because of its outstanding resistance against the elements and harsh weather. Additionally, metal roofs are actually long-lasting and demand minimal maintenance, which will ultimately save you time and effort.

Cost:

If you’ve been thinking of installing a metal roof, they will usually cost between $200 and $550 per square, which makes them an excellent option for homeowners who are seeking reliable and affordable roofing options.

Pros:

Extremely durable; with proper care, it may last for 50 years or more.
Excellent resistance to fire makes it ideal for houses in places where wildfires occur frequently.
Efficient in terms of energy, reflecting ultraviolet rays and reducing cooling expenses from 10 to 25 per cent.
Environmentally friendly, usually made from materials that have been recycled, and biodegradable after their useful life ends.

Cons:

Metal roofs can have higher initial cost as compared to other residential roofing materials.
Metal roofs can produce noise during hail or heavy rain.
They are prone to dents due to strong hail storms or collapsed branches.
It might be hard to accurately reproduce the initial metal’s color after repairs, which might reduce the overall aesthetic appeal of your roof.

2. Tile Roofs

3. Membrane Residential Roofing Materials

Tile roof is, without doubt, one of those most beautiful-looking roofing alternatives. Tile material for roofing is known for its outstanding strength and longer life span. Roofs made of tiles can withstand severe climates while maintaining an average lifespan of 50 to 100 years, considerably lasting other residential roofing materials.

Cost:

Tile roofs tend to be costly because of their outstanding durability and visual appeal. The cost varies between $550 to $4000 per square. It will require important investments, but its long lifespan demands little maintenance. It presents an excellent value for owners looking for a long-term roofing alternative.

Pros:

Exceptional durability, lasting over a century with proper installation and maintenance.
Aesthetic appeal, available in a variety of colors and styles to enhance curb appeal.
Fire-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions, suitable for homes in wildfire-prone or severe weather areas.

Cons:

Higher initial cost compared to other residential roofing materials due to the expense of tiles and labor-intensive installation.
Additional structural support may be required as not all structures can support the weight of a tile roof.
More fragile than other residential roofing materials, prone to breakage or cracking if walked on.

Popular for flat roofs and low-pitch rooftops, membrane roofs are available in a number of forms, such as EPDM and PVC. EPDM is among the most durable of them all and is usually referred to as “rubber roofing.”Membrane roofing, typically installed in broad sheets to limit the penetration of water locations, is an effective method of retaining outside elements.

Cost:

The lifespan of membrane roofing typically ranges from 20 to 35 years or more with proper maintenance. However, the cost can vary depending on factors such as the type of membrane used and the complexity of installation. On average, membrane roofing can cost anywhere between $4.50 to $12 per square foot.

Pros:

Suitable for flat or very low-pitch roofs, making it versatile for various architectural designs.
EPDM, one of the commonly used membranes, is highly durable and resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and ozone exposure.
Installation involves large sheets, minimizing the number of seams where water infiltration can occur, thus reducing the risk of leaks.
EPDM membranes are relatively lightweight, which can reduce structural load requirements and costs.
EPDM membranes are often made from recycled materials, making them environmentally friendly.

Cons:

Lifespan typically ranges from 20 to 35 years, which may be shorter compared to some other residential roofing materials.
The initial cost can be relatively high, especially for higher-quality membranes or intricate installations.
Membrane roofing may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other residential roofing materials, lacking in visual appeal.
Requires professional installation to ensure proper sealing and waterproofing, which can add to the overall cost.
Vulnerable to punctures from sharp objects or heavy foot traffic, requiring regular maintenance and repairs.

4. Asphalt Shingles

As the most prevalent roofing choice, asphalt roof shingles are chosen because of their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and longevity. With an average lifespan of thirty years or more, a roof made of asphalt shingles that had been installed properly provides long-lasting protection at an affordable price.

Cost:

Asphalt shingles provide an affordable option that does not compromise quality or longevity, with costs generally anywhere from $110 to $200 per square. For your roofing requirements, this option offers savings and durability.

Pro:

Asphalt shingles are less costly which makes it a popular choice for homeowners with a limited budget.
They offer versatility with a wide range of colors and styles, allowing for customization to match different home exteriors.
Installation is relatively easy and fast, resulting in reduced labor costs.

Con:

Asphalt shingles are not as durable as some other roofing materials, and their lifespan can be shortened by extreme weather conditions.
They are not the most eco-friendly option, being petroleum-based and not easily recyclable, thus contributing to landfill waste.
Regular maintenance is required to prevent issues such as algae or moss growth, particularly in wet climates.

5. Cedar Roofs: Residential Roofing Materials

Cedar roofs are formed out of authentic wood and have been appreciated for their attractive look and durability over time. They can either be broken manually for an unfinished look or sliced cleanly for a smooth finish. However, because they are natural, the manufacturer doesn’t offer a warranty; rather, the individuals who installed them do. Cedar roofing may discolor and rot or crack over time, based on the location you live and weather conditions.

Cost:

Cedar roofs may last up to 30 or more years with adequate care, however, they must undergo periodic inspections to avoid moss and mold development. They might initially cost more, usually around $450 and $700 per square, but because they are so beautiful and long-lasting, numerous homeowners think that the cost is worth it. Thus, cedar may be the best choice if you’re seeking a roofing material that appears fantastic and will last for many years.

Pros:

Cedar roofs are admired for their natural beauty and durability.
Made from renewable materials, cedar roofs are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
With proper maintenance, cedar roofs can last 30 to 40 years, providing a long-lasting roofing solution.
Cedar roofs offer natural insulation, potentially reducing energy costs over time.

Cons:

Regular maintenance is required to prevent moss, mold, and mildew growth, which can be time-consuming.
Cedar roofs are more susceptible to fire hazards unless treated with a fire retardant.
Cedar roofs tend to be more expensive than other residential roofing materials due to higher material costs and labor-intensive installation processes.

Conclusion

The most suitable roof materials for your homes vary based on the climate, individual preferences, and financial limitations. Asphalt roofs are widely used since they are affordable and durable. Roofs made of metal are long-lasting and energy-efficient, but they may be more costly. Cedar roofs look wonderful, however they need more maintenance as well as cost more. Membrane roofs are suitable for flat or low-sloped roofs and can be found in a range of types. Therefore, while selecting a roof, think about what matters most important to you, such as the amount of money you are willing to invest, the location where you reside, and the way you want your home to look.

You can always choose NexLevel Roofing and Outdoor Living for home roofing needs. With many years of knowledge and expertise, we take immense pride in providing outstanding roofing services that can be tailored to what you want. From start to finish, our team of experienced experts is committed to delivering exceptional client service and superior work. We can do both new roof installation and routine maintenance for the existing roof.

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Experience unmatched quality and craftsmanship in the heart of Texas. At NexLevel, we specialize in transforming homes with precision roofing and bespoke outdoor living spaces. Our dedicated team combines years of expertise with top-tier materials to deliver results that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy fire pit for chilly evenings or a resilient roof to protect your home, NexLevel is your trusted partner. Dive into a world of possibilities and let us bring your vision to life.