When it comes to protecting your home, the roof is your first line of defense. This is not just an old adage that people say, it's literally the first line of defense. Your shingles go through an incredible amount of abuse from Mother Nature's elements. Residential roofing covers a wide spectrum of roof types, roofing materials, and roof styles, each designed to meet the needs of different climates, budgets, and architectural preferences. To the average homeowner, it can be overwhelming choosing the materials for your home. There are many roof materials available, selecting the right roof materials is crucial for ensuring your roof matches your climate and desired aesthetics.
Choosing the right option isn’t just about aesthetics. The shingle type and roofing materials chosen impact durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and overall home value. Selecting the appropriate roof material is essential for long-term durability and ensuring compliance with local building codes. Your roof could be the main thing preventing you from selling your home to a prospective buyer as well.
High Impact's detailed guide explores the options for homeowners to choose from, their pros and cons, and which ones may be best for your home.
The roofing material you select is one of the most important decisions in any roof replacement project, as it can significantly influence and complement various roof designs.
Each roof material is best suited to a specific type of roofing and roof type. Understanding the differences between types of roofing, the appropriate type of roofing for your home, and the characteristics of each roof type helps homeowners make informed choices.
Here are the most common options for residential buildings:
The most common roofing material in Colorado. Three-tab shingles are a basic, cost-effective, and lightweight type of asphalt shingle, known for their simplicity and affordability. Affordable, versatile, and available in styles like architectural shingles, they remain the go-to option for homeowners. Depending on the climate you're in, architectural shingles can offer incredible protection against harsh climates. They can also be referred to as dimensional and laminated based on their durability. They offer a longer lifespan and have a higher aesthetic appeal. High Impact works with Class-4, Impact Resistance shingles to be the last roof you'll ever need.
Highly durable and resistant to extreme weather, metal roofing is also fire-resistant, making it a safer choice for many homeowners. Options like standing seam metal roofs provide sleek designs, while steel roofing offers strength with a modern edge.
Metal roofing is also commonly used on farm structures and agricultural buildings due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. Considering various roof slopes on a residential property, Metal roofing requires snow guards in cold weather climates to prevent ice and snow from sliding off as a hazard.
Concrete tiles are a popular roofing material in hot climates due to thermal insulation benefits. They provide a durable, cost-effective roofing material molded from sand-mix concrete and available in various profiles. Less expensive than clay but equally durable.
Timeless, stylish, and long-lasting, often seen in Mediterranean-style tile roofs. Clay is phenomenally resilient against fire damage and also exceptionally durable. Clay roofs can last for 100+ years when installed properly! Due to the style and material fabrication, they are suitable for hip roofs and gable roofs, but not flat or curved roofs.
Includes wood shingles and shakes. Wood shakes are made by splitting wood, giving them a rougher texture, while a wood shingle is sawn for a smoother finish. A natural option that delivers rustic charm, but requires regular maintenance and may be restricted in some areas due to fire risk. Always check local building codes.
Especially common on flat roofs and low slope roofs, a membrane roofing system (also known as a membrane roof) offers excellent waterproofing and durability. Rubber roofing, such as EPDM, is a popular choice for membrane roofs due to its durability and superior waterproof qualities.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Always discuss options with a trusted roofing contractor before committing to a new roof. They can guide you toward the right fit based on climate, home style, and budget.
Slate roofing is a premium option known for its natural beauty, durability, and longevity. Made from thin sheets of natural stone, slate roofs can last 75 to over 100 years when properly installed and maintained. They provide excellent resistance to fire, water, and harsh weather conditions. Although slate roofing requires specialized installation and can be more expensive than other materials, its timeless aesthetic and long lifespan make it a valuable investment for many homeowners seeking both elegance and durability.
Beyond materials, the roof design shapes your home’s character. Here are the five main types of roof styles, which are among the most common roof shapes found in residential architecture.
Gable roofs are the most common roof style in residential homes. The gable portion is the triangular section formed by the two sloping sides, which increases attic space and allows for design variations such as windows or extensions. Gable roofs provide more attic space compared to other roof types, improving ventilation and offering additional storage options. Simple, affordable, and effective for shedding rain and snow. A dutch gable roof is a hybrid model of sorts, combining both Hip and Gable to create even more attic space. Although much more stylish architecturally, this type of roof is more costly to install and opens up more risk for leaks and maintenance.
Offers stability and better wind resistance. There are several types of hip roofs, each featuring four sloped sides that provide improved durability in snowy and rainy conditions compared to other roof styles. The traditional hip roof is common in storm-prone areas.
Gambrel roofs, often seen on barns, are popular in homes for maximizing attic space.
Gambrel roofs feature two slopes on each side: a steep lower slope and a shallower upper slope, which increases usable attic space. The steep slopes of gambrel roofs contribute to their distinctive appearance and provide functional benefits such as more headroom and a rustic, traditional look. The attic space lost on a traditional hip roof is a good incentive to build a gambrel roof, but the Dutch Colonial architectural style makes it a rare choice in practice.
French-inspired elegance with four slopes, often used for additional living space.
Mansard roofs feature a four-sided, double-sloped design that maximizes upper floor living space and adds distinctive architectural character to homes. This type of roof is chosen when homeowners are seeking to add a whole additional floor within the attic.
Perfect for modern aesthetics and usable rooftop space. Flat roofing is a system known for its minimal slope, often constructed with materials like EPDM, TPO, or PVC, and requires professional installation to ensure durability and prevent common issues such as leakage.
Other unique options include the dutch gable roof, butterfly roof, curved roofs, inverted gable roof, and dome roofs, all adding architectural flair.
For modern homes, flat roofs offer design flexibility. Popular systems include:
Flat roofs also support green roofs, solar panels, and added outdoor living space.
Metal roofing is increasingly popular in both traditional and modern builds. It includes:
Standing seam metal is particularly valued for its clean design, while metal roofing overall provides unmatched durability. Metal roofing is also widely used in commercial buildings for its durability and suitability for large-scale projects.
Both concrete tiles and clay tiles are excellent for durability and beauty.
Solar roofing integrates power generation into the roof design.
A roofing system is more than just its covering. Homeowners must consider:
Always consult a roofing contractor to ensure all elements, from ventilation to waterproofing, work together seamlessly.
For smaller projects, rolled roofing remains a practical option:
That said, rolled roofing doesn’t last as long as other roofing materials, making it a stop-gap rather than a long-term solution. However, it remains a practical solution for shed roofs where simplicity and cost-effectiveness are priorities.
When planning for a new roof or a roof replacement, understanding your roofing budget and cost is so vital and making a decision. The total expense depends on several factors, including the type of roof, the size of your home, and your location. Roofing materials play a significant role in determining the overall cost. For example, asphalt shingles are a popular and budget-friendly roofing material, typically ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot installed. If you’re considering metal roofing, expect to pay more, as costs often fall between $7 and $14 per square foot, but the investment can pay off in longevity and durability.
Concrete tiles and clay tiles are also sought-after for their durability and style, but they come at a higher price point, usually between $10 and $20 per square foot. These materials can add a distinctive look and long-term value to your home, but it’s important to factor in both material and labor costs. To get the most accurate estimate for your new roof or roof replacement, consult with a trusted roofing contractor. They can help you compare options, understand the full scope of your project, and find the best roofing material to fit your budget and needs.
A well-chosen roofing material can make a significant difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Modern roofing systems are designed not only to protect your home but also to help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Cool roofs, for example, use materials like specially coated asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or concrete tiles to reflect sunlight and minimize heat absorption. This helps keep your home cooler in hot weather and reduces the need for air conditioning.
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, add a layer of vegetation that provides natural insulation and further reduces energy use. Integrating solar panels into your roof design is another smart way to boost energy efficiency, allowing you to generate electricity and take advantage of natural light. When selecting a roofing material, consider its thermal insulation properties and how it can contribute to a more energy-efficient home. A well-designed roofing system that incorporates energy-saving features can lead to long-term savings and a more comfortable living environment.
Every roofing project must comply with local and national roofing codes and regulations to ensure safety and durability. Building codes, such as the International Residential Code (IRC), set standards for roof design, materials, and installation methods. Local regulations may also require specific features, such as enhanced wind resistance or fire safety measures, depending on your region’s climate and risks.
Working with a licensed roofing contractor is essential, as they understand the latest codes and will ensure your roofing system meets or exceeds all requirements. Choose a roofer that uses OneClick Code, so you have the most up-to-date roofing codes for your address and can properly calculate Permit fees. This only protects your investment but also ensures your roof is safe and built to last. Regular inspections and maintenance, performed by professionals, help keep your roof in compliance and catch any issues before they become costly problems. By following roofing codes and regulations, you can be confident that your roof will provide reliable protection for years to come.
Protecting your investment in a new roof goes beyond choosing the right roofing material, it also means understanding your roofing insurance and warranties. Homeowners’ insurance typically covers roof damage caused by events like storms, fire, or falling debris, but it’s important to review your policy to know exactly what’s included. Roofing warranties, offered by manufacturers or your roofing contractor, cover defects in the roofing material or installation.
Look for warranties that provide comprehensive coverage, including both labor and materials, and last for 20 to 30 years or more. Many insurance carriers in Colorado also offer discounts for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, making them a smart choice for both protection and long-term savings. A reputable roofing contractor will explain your warranty options and help you understand the details, so you’re prepared for any unexpected issues.
The right roof can do more than protect your home — it can also boost its resale value and curb appeal. A well-maintained asphalt shingle roof is a popular choice for many homeowners, offering affordability and reliability that appeal to buyers. Metal roofing, especially standing seam metal roofs, provides a modern, stylish look and long-lasting performance that can set your home apart in the market.
Concrete tiles and clay tiles are also attractive options, known for their distinctive appearance and durability, which can be a major selling point. Unique roof styles, such as a butterfly roof or jerkinhead roof, add architectural interest and character, making your home stand out to potential buyers. When selecting a roofing material or roof design, consider how it will impact your home’s value in the long run. You have much more flexibility to build a gable roof or mansard roof, versus a hip roof if you are building a new property or addition. Otherwise, it can be quite costly to frame out unique designs and roof types. Investing in a high-quality roof not only enhances your enjoyment of your home but also makes it more appealing to future buyers, ensuring a strong return on investment.
Even the best roof styles need upkeep.
Regular care extends the life of most roofing materials and protects your investment.
So, what are the four main types of residential roofing? Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tile (concrete or clay), and wood roofing.
For homeowners seeking premium, durable options with exceptional longevity and aesthetic appeal, slate roofs and slate roofing are also worth considering, as they are made from natural stone and require specialized installation.
What’s the most common residential roof? The asphalt shingle roof, thanks to affordability and easy installation.
And which type of roof is best for a home? That depends on climate, design, and budget.
Ultimately, the right type of roof enhances curb appeal, provides protection, and improves energy efficiency. For tailored guidance, connect with a trusted roofing contractor to explore your best options.
There are also other roof styles available beyond the main types discussed here, offering unique designs and features for different needs.
Ready to explore the right roofing solution? At High Impact, we specialize in Class 4 impact-resistant roofing built for Colorado’s storms, making it the last roof you’ll ever need