List of commercially available roofing materials including Types and Designs

Roofing materials come in a wide range of types and designs to suit different budgets and architectural styles. Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable options.

They are made from a combination of asphalt, fiberglass, and minerals, and are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Asphalt shingles are available in various colors and styles, including architectural and three-tab shingles.

Metal roofing is another popular option, known for its strength and resistance to weathering. It's available in various metals, including aluminum, copper, and steel.

Metal roofing can be installed in a variety of styles, including standing seam and corrugated designs.

The material used in a roof's construction is a crucial decision, as it determines the roof's lifespan, durability, and cost to install or replace. The type of material chosen will depend on the climate and weather where you live.

There are many materials to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Asphalt shingles, tile roofing, and metal roofing are just a few of the options available.

The durability of the roof is also an important factor to consider, as it will affect the overall condition of the building. The style of the house, local climate, and cost of different roofing options should also be taken into account when deciding on a roofing material.

You've got a lot of options when it comes to roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofs, and they're often used because they're affordable and easy to install.

The style of your house and local climate are also important factors to consider when choosing a roof type. For example, tile roofing is a popular choice in areas with high winds or extreme temperatures.

Roof slope and complexity can also impact your decision. A more complex roof may require specialized materials or installation techniques. Metal roofing is a good option for steeply pitched roofs, for instance.

There are many different types of roofs to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It's essential to consider factors like durability, energy efficiency, and weather conditions when making your decision.

Local climate can also impact your choice of roofing material. For example, areas with heavy rainfall may require a more water-resistant material.

When choosing a roof material, it's essential to consider the climate and weather where you live. The type of material chosen will determine how long it lasts, its durability, and cost to install or replace.

To help break up this massive topic, we're dividing the main types of materials into three sections: Your shingles, the materials that back them up, and the items that provide additional protection to your roof. These sections will help you better understand the different components involved in a roof replacement.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing for sloped roofs because they're affordable, easy to install, durable, and available in a wide variety of colors. Premium grades of "laminated" asphalt fiberglass shingles are typically warrantied for 50 years.

You'll need to gather specific materials for a roof replacement, including shingles, materials that back them up, and items that provide additional protection to your roof.

Gable roofs are one of the most common roof designs, with two slopes on each side that meet at the peak.

They can be steep or shallow, depending on the building's requirements.

Gable roofs are easier to build and maintain, but they're not as energy efficient as other options.

A classic gable roof is a popular choice, but there are also variations like Dutch gable, cross gable, and front gable roofs.

These variations offer more headroom and are less likely to break, thanks to their steeper walls.

Built-Up Roofing has a durability of over 20 years, making it a reliable choice for many buildings. It's an inexpensive solution that can be easy to repair.

The layers of tar and gravel used in Built-Up Roofing provide excellent UV-resistance and a stable understructure. This makes it an effective solution for many roofing needs.

The type of felt used in Built-Up Roofing can vary, including fabric, polyester, and PTFE (a synthetic fluoropolymer) embedded in fiberglass.

Asphalt fiberglass shingles are the most popular type of roofing for sloped roofs.

They're affordable, easy to install, durable, and available in a wide variety of colors.

These shingles have a fiberglass mat embedded in them, which provides an extra measure of strength and tear resistance.

Asphalt fiberglass shingles are warrantied for 50 years in premium grades.

Asphalt shingles are constructed by covering a fiberglass mat with asphalt, a layer of protective granules, and an adhesive.

They're the most popular roofing materials for homes in North America due to their relative low cost for the durability they offer.

Asphalt shingles come in three main categories: 3-Tab, Architectural, and Luxury.

Shingles are typically made of many different kinds of materials, including asphalt, and are affordable and convenient to install.

However, shingles don't have a long lifespan and can be susceptible to moss or mildew if the building is in an area that doesn't get a lot of sunshine.

Modified bitumen is a type of asphalt-based material that can be heat-welded, self-adhering, or installed with adhesive.

It's made by mixing asphalt with polymers and applying it to fiberglass and/or polyester mat.

Wood shingles and shakes can be a beautiful addition to a home, but they require more maintenance than an asphalt roof. They're made from durable evergreen woods like red cedar, Alaskan yellow cedar, and Eastern white cedar, which resist rot and insect damage.

These types of roofs are expensive and tricky to install, which is why they're often only used on historic houses. Wood shingles have a smoother surface because they're sawed, while shakes are split from the log and have a rough texture.

Wood shingles and shakes are a beautiful option for a roof, but be prepared for more maintenance compared to an asphalt roof.

They're usually made from red cedar, Alaskan yellow cedar, or Eastern white cedar, which are evergreens that produce dimensionally stable wood naturally resistant to rot and insect attack.

Shakes are split from the log and have a rough, random texture, while shingles have a smoother surface because they're sawed.

Wood roofs are expensive and require extra skill to install, which is why most people avoid them unless they're dealing with a historic house.

Fibre cement is a great alternative to traditional roofing materials, and it's often used in conjunction with concrete. It's composed of cement reinforced with fibers of some sort.

One of the most common types of fibre cement roofing is made from concrete reinforced with fibers. This type of roofing is durable and long-lasting.

In terms of structural concrete, there are three main categories: precast/prestressed, cast-in-place, and shell. These categories are used for flat roof constructions.

Precast/prestressed concrete roofing has many types, but the most common ones are used for short spans up to 60 feet. Here are some of the most common types:

Clay and concrete tiles are a popular choice for roofing due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. They're often associated with Spanish-style houses, but can be used with other architectural styles as well.

Clay and concrete tiles are masonry roofing materials with similar installation requirements, making them a convenient option for builders. They're designed to overlap and/or interlock with adjacent tiles.

These tiles are well-suited for hot climates with low rainfall, but may not be the best choice for areas with heavy, regular rains and freezing temperatures. I've seen them do well in areas with mild winters and hot summers.

You can find clay and concrete tiles in various styles, including Imbrex and tegula, which dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. Other popular styles include Monk and nun, Dutch roof tiles, and Mangalore tiles.

Here are some examples of clay and concrete tile roofing styles:

Rubber and composite roofing materials are popular choices for many builders and homeowners. Rubber roofing, also known as EPDM roofing, is a thin membrane made from a highly engineered compound called ethylene propylene diene monomer.

It's primarily used on flat or low-slope roofs in both commercial and residential buildings. Rubber roofing has been around for a while, but it's taken a lot of chemistry research to develop it into a durable and waterproof material.

Composite roofing, on the other hand, is made from a combination of materials, including resins and rubber compounds from reclaimed tires. This type of roofing offers excellent longevity and a lower installation price, while providing a traditional slate roof appearance.

Rubber has made its way into roofing, specifically for flat roofs over garages and porches.

Rubber roofing is relatively new, developed through extensive chemistry research to create a thin, durable, and waterproof membrane.

Rubber roofing is often referred to as EPDM roofing, which is an abbreviation for ethylene propylene diene monomer, the compound used to manufacture most types of rubber roofing.

Most rubber roofing is used on flat or low-slope roofs in both commercial and residential buildings.

Many commercial buildings have membrane roofs, which are typically made of rubber or EPDM, but few houses do.

Rubber membrane roofs are designed to be waterproof, making them a popular choice for flat roofs.

Composite roofing is a type of roofing that uses a combination of materials in its manufacturing process.

Composite shingles often carry some of the industry's longest warranties, providing homeowners with peace of mind and protection against costly repairs.

Composite roofing can take many forms, but one of the most common types is a simulated roofing slate made from resins and rubber compounds extracted from reclaimed tires.

This type of composite roofing offers excellent longevity and a lower installation price compared to traditional slate roofs.

It provides the appearance of a traditional slate roof, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want the look without the high cost.

Metal and corrugated roofing materials are a popular choice for many buildings. They offer a range of benefits, including durability and resistance to weathering.

One of the most common types of metal roofing is corrugated metal roofing, which features a distinctive wavy pattern. It's often used for sheds and other garden structures.

Corrugated metal roofing can be made from steel, polycarbonate, or an asphalt-fiberglass composite. It's a great option for agricultural and commercial buildings, as well as small sheds.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, is a broad category that includes a wide range of styles and materials. It's characterized by its high resistance, impermeability, and longevity.

Some popular types of metal roofing include corrugated galvanized iron, copper roofs, and standing-seam metal roofs. Copper roofs, in particular, are known for their durability and can last for hundreds of years.

Here are some key characteristics of metal and corrugated roofing materials:

Metal roofing typically has a lifespan of 40-60 years, making it a very common roof type.

Slate is a premium roofing material that's both durable and long-lasting. Most slate used in the U.S. comes from slate deposits in Vermont and Pennsylvania.

Slate roofs can be quite expensive due to the cost of manufacturing and installation. They're among the most expensive roofing options available.

A well-maintained slate roof can last for 75 years or more, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.

Flat roofs are inherently prone to leaking, so it's crucial to hire skilled installers for repairs, replacements, or installations.

The most common flat-roofing materials used today include single-membrane systems like EPDM or rubber roofing, thermo-polyolefin (TPO) roofing, and PVC roofing.

Metal roofing is sometimes used on low-slope roofs but not on flat roofs, which is a key distinction to keep in mind.

Flat roofs can be grouped with "low-slope" roofing because many of the roofing treatments are the same.

High-density Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing is a system that coats the roof with a continuous layer of foam insulation that can also serve as the finished roof surface, as long as a protective coating is applied over the foam.

Skilled installers can make all the difference in ensuring a flat roof is properly installed and maintained to prevent leaks and other issues.

Slate is a premium roofing material that's worth considering for its durability and long lifespan. Most roofing slate used in the U.S. comes from slate deposits in Vermont and Pennsylvania.

Slate roofs can be a challenge to install, which is why they're often more expensive than other roofing materials. Expensive to manufacture and tricky to install, this “stone” roof is among the most expensive available.

A slate roof can last for 75 years or more when properly installed and maintained.

Solar and energy-efficient roofing options are a great way to reduce your energy bills and extend the life of your roof. Solar shingles and solar roofing are examples of new technology that can be integrated into your roof, making them almost invisible.

Solar shingles are designed to be less obtrusive than traditional solar panels, but they are less efficient. Solar roofing, on the other hand, can take the form of solar shingles or roofing tiles that contain solar cells. This technology is referred to as "building-integrated photovoltaics", or BIPV.

ENERGY STAR qualified roof shingles can lower roof surface temperature by as much as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, making your home cooler and more comfortable.

Solar options are becoming more attractive, and one of the most innovative is solar shingles, which are designed to blend in with traditional roofs.

Solar shingles are less obtrusive than traditional solar panels, but they're also less efficient.

These shingles are made to look like regular asphalt shingles, making them a great option for homeowners who want to go solar without changing the appearance of their roof.

Solar roofing, or building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), can take the form of solar shingles or roofing tiles that contain solar cells, offering a seamless integration with the existing roof.

Solar shingles and solar roofing are examples of new "thin-film" photovoltaic technology, making them a promising development in the field of solar energy.

Energy-efficient shingles can lower roof surface temperature by as much as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

These shingles not only protect your roof but also help increase the energy efficiency of your home.

ENERGY STAR qualified roof shingles can help decrease the amount of heat transferred to your home's interior.

A cool roof is designed to reflect solar energy, decreasing the need for air conditioning and keeping your home comfortable.

Reflective roof products can also reduce UV damage and extend the life of the roof.

Many cool roof products qualify for energy rebates and incentives, which can help offset the cost of installation.

Roofing components are the building blocks of a sturdy roof.

Asphalt shingles, for instance, typically consist of a fiberglass mat, mineral granules, and a waterproof asphalt coating.

The underlayment, a critical component, is usually made of felt paper or synthetic materials.

A layer of underlayment provides a secondary barrier against water and weather damage.

Replacing costs is a crucial aspect of roofing components, and it's essential to understand what drives these expenses.

The cost of roofing materials can range from $3 to $40 per square foot, depending on the type and quality of the material.

Replacing a roof can be a costly endeavor, with asphalt shingle roofs being the most affordable option at around $3 to $5 per square foot.

A metal roof, on the other hand, can cost upwards of $10 to $20 per square foot.

The cost of labor also plays a significant role in the overall cost of replacing a roof, with labor costs ranging from $3 to $10 per square foot.

The type of roofing material used can also impact the cost of replacement, with some materials requiring more labor and installation time than others.

For example, a slate roof can cost upwards of $20 to $40 per square foot due to the high labor costs associated with installing these heavy and delicate tiles.

Starter shingles are a crucial component of a roof's protective layer. They're asphalt strips nailed in along the edges of the roof.

These strips have an adhesive at the bottom that melts, securing the laying of shingles above it. This adhesive helps the starter shingles stick to the roof deck.

The purpose of starter shingles is to provide a surface for the first run of full shingles to adhere to. Without them, the bottom of the shingles would only rely on their weight to keep them down.

Starter shingles are a simple but effective solution to this problem. They ensure that the entire roof is protected from the elements.

Ridge capping is a crucial aspect of roofing that often gets overlooked, but it's essential for protecting your roof from the elements.

Ridge cap shingles are typically pre-bent to fit snugly over the peak of your roof.

They're thicker than normal shingles, which helps with wind resistance and directing water that hits the peak of your roof.

This design feature is particularly important in areas prone to heavy rainfall or strong winds, as it helps prevent water from seeping under the shingles and causing damage.

Ridge cap shingles do a great job of capping off the ridge of your roof in an aesthetically pleasing way, providing cover for the area where everything meets at the top.

Underlayments play a crucial role in protecting your roof from water damage. They're usually rolled out and nailed down directly onto the roof decking before other roofing materials.

Underlayments are made of either asphalt saturated felt paper or synthetic underlayment, which is a mix of fiberglass and asphalt. Synthetic underlayment is becoming more common these days.

There are different types of underlayments available, including tar paper and felt paper, synthetic underlayment, and ice and water shield. Each serves a specific purpose in protecting your roof.

Ice and water shield is a beefed-up underlayment designed for areas sensitive to leaks, such as the edges of your roof, around penetrations, and in valleys. It's made with rubberized asphalt and an adhesive that allows it to be secured without nails or staples.

Here are the different types of underlayments:

These underlayments work together to provide a watertight seal and protect your roof from water damage.