Composition Shingles are a type of roofing material can be used on almost any type of house. They are also commonly used on commercial buildings as well. Some advantages include their suitability to any budget. They are priced anywhere from $0.70 per square foot to $2.00 a square foot depending on the material warranty, design, thickness, and impact resistance rating. The disadvantages are that they have a short lifespan, (usually 10-30 years). They tend to scar easily when they get hot. They are subject mildew and moss. They are also not very environmentally friendly.

Metal Roofs are commonly made of aluminum, steel, cooper or tin. These types of roofs used to be used on bungalows and ranch style homes primarily, but they are getting more and more popular every year. They are fabricated for a variety of looks including slate, cedar shakes (shingles), or the more common standing seam look. Metal roofs are fabricated in many colors. They are light in weight. They Can be very durable depending on the gauge of the metal. Metal roofs last a long time (at least 50 years).They are extremely low maintenance. They can sometimes be installed over an existing roofing system. Metal roofs can perform well in severe weather like hail and wind. Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly.

Wood Shingles are called either wood shakes or the more expensive type, Cedar Shakes. This type of roofing material is not seen very often. It is commonly used on contemporary style homes, historic homes, or old cottages. They are very natural looking. They tend to weather to a soft grey color. They provide insulation for your home or property. They are very easy to repair or replace. Wood shingles also last a long time (usually 30-50 years). The only problems are that they are very expensive. They require a lot of maintenance. Depending on their exposure, you will be dealing with wood rot, split wood, mildew, and mold. They also have such a poor fire rating that most insurance companies will require you to replace them with a different type of roofing system.

Tile Roofs are usually made of clay or concrete the more expensive being clay. They are usually installed on Mission style home or Mediterranean style homes. They are manufactured in many colors and styles. They are non-combustible and fire proof. Tile roofs are easy to maintain and extremely durable. They also add a great look to your home. The disadvantages are that they are very expensive. Tile roofs are very heavy. They weight and structural requirements can make if prohibitively expensive as an addition to any existing home. Repairs to tile roofs require someone with expert level experience. They are very fragile when walking on them.

A Slate Roof is the type of roof is usually installed on colonial style homes. Slate roofs have a very beautiful and distinctive look to their appearance. They are very low maintenance and they have a long lifespan (50 or more years). Slate roofs are also fire proof. They are also the most expensive type of roof you can buy. Slate roofs need to be installed by someone with expert level roofing experience. Slate is also very heavy and fragile when handling. Slate roofs are also very high maintenance.