When homeowners are facing roofing issues and ask our A.O. Roofing team about the best roofing material to use, the honest answer is: it depends. Roof failures always have a starting point. Over time, a roof may shed granular coating, curl or crack, or expose its fiberglass mat, or worse. To help you understand which roofing material is the best, you first need to know more about each roofing option.
Material Comparisons: Pros, Risks & Common Failures
Below is a homeowner-friendly guide comparing these materials and helping you decide which roofing material is best for your home. Each material has trade-offs, especially when dealing with aging roofing problems.
Asphalt (architectural)
Pros: cost-effective, easy to install, decent performance.
Risks: granule loss speeds with sun exposure; curling and mat exposure when the adhesive fails.
Best when: budget is tight and slope is steep; useful lifespan is 15-25 years (for quality products).
Metal (standing seam or metal shingles)
Pros: extremely durable, reflective, lightweight, and low maintenance.
Risks: flashing details and fastener points demand quality installation, or you may see leaks.
Best when: you desire long life (40–60+ years) and energy savings in hot climates.
Tile (clay or concrete)
Pros: fireproof, rot-resistant, long-lasting.
Risks: heavy, brittle (can break under shock), and flashing around penetrations requires careful detailing.
Best when: budget and structure allow, and you want distinctive aesthetics.
Slate
Pros: extremely long life (50–100+ years), elegant look.
Risks: heavy, brittle, specialized installation.
Best when: you’ll stay in the home long-term and want premium durability.
Wood (shakes or shingles)
Pros: natural looks, moderate insulation.
Risks: prone to rot, fire, warp, and require heavy maintenance.
Best when: you value character and are willing to maintain.
Looking for Longevity?
No single roofing material is always ideal. For many homeowners, high-quality architectural asphalt shingles offer a solid balance. But for those wanting extreme longevity, metal, tile, or slate options, choose a system with rigorous flashing, solid underlayment, and an experienced installer.
Ready for a Free, Professional Roof Inspection?
A.O. Roofing Services offers advanced recovery solutions to restore and protect your property. Contact us today for expert service that streamlines the process and ensures long-term durability.
Curious to see more of our work? Visit our blog for a glimpse of recent projects across Polk County. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram for regular updates and inspiration!