How to Choose the Best Roofing Material for Your House

When choosing new roof options for your home, looks are important – but so are the price tag, durability, and lifespan of the roofing materials. Right now, there are more new roofing materials on the market than ever, so choosing one can often feel like closing your eyes, taking a guess, and just hoping for the best.

At Mid-Shore Exteriors, we want you to feel 100% confident in your decision, which is why we’ve taken the time to put together this comprehensive guide to finding your best roofing material. Keep reading and check out the information below to find the best roofing material for your next home renovation!

 

Asphalt Shingles

Gray asphalt shingle roofing up close

Affordable, durable, colorful, AND low-maintenance? It’s got to be asphalt shingle roofing!

Over 70% of single-family homes in the United States are covered with asphalt shingle roofs. So while asphalt shingles are undoubtedly the most popular choice, they may not be the best roofing material if you’re going for a unique, standout look.

However, there are good reasons that this type of roofing material is chosen by so many homeowners! Asphalt shingles’ longevity, affordability, and variety of color options make these roofing materials highly sought after for homes across America. Let’s take a closer look at what may make asphalt shingles the best roofing material for you:

Pros:

  • Most affordable
  • Extensive variety of colors
  • 50-year, non-prorated warranty on materials and labor
  • Easy to repair
  • Matches every exterior home material

 

Cons:

  • Because they are popular, they are not unique
  • Can be prone to mold or algae growth in shady areas

 

Slate Roofs

Slate roof installation at Maryland east shore

If you want a roof with more of a unique style, a slate roof may be the best roofing material we introduce you to all day! In the modern world, slate has become the new roof option for homeowners who really take pride in the exterior of their homes.

The best part about slate roofing may not be its expensive look, but its incredible lifespan! Most new roofing materials will only last between 30 and 50 years – however, the slate roofs that Mid-Shore Exteriors installs can last a LIFETIME!

If you decide to look into installing a slate roof on your home, we do advise you to proceed with caution. Do your best with thorough research on installation teams who specialize specifically in this material – installing slate is a very specialized skill, and honest installers can be tough to come across. Let’s explore some additional pros and cons to this roofing material option:

Pros:

  • A unique, standalone look
  • Most durable roofing option
  • Lasts for a lifetime
  • Fire-resistant
  • Looks upscale and luxurious
  • Synthetic slate can prove a less expensive option

 

Cons:

  • True slate is costly
  • Can require extra framing support
  • Can make chimney repairs more difficult

 

Cedar Shake Roofs

Cedar shake roof installed in Maryland

Introducing cedar shingles, some of the most beautiful new roofing materials that have picked up popularity in 2019 for many reasons! Cedar roof shingles are “more than just a pretty face” – in fact, they’re the best roofing material for environmentally-conscious homeowners.

Who doesn’t love saving money on energy bills? Cedar shake roofs not only look great, but provide amazing insulation perks as well. Let’s break down a few more of the benefits of cedar shingle roofing options, and some concerns as well:

Pros:

  • Beautiful roof
  • Effectively regulates home temperature
  • Eco-friendly
  • Natural beauty
  • 30-50 year-long expected lifespan

 

Cons:

  • Costly price tag
  • Requires regular maintenance
  • May not be ideal for freezing climates

 

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roof in Maryland

Nothing compares to the wholesome sound of rainfall pitter-pattering atop a metal roof. Wouldn’t you agree?

When it comes to new roofing options, standing seam metal roofing offers the world and more to homeowners willing to invest in it. Because the metal roofing we install at Mid-Shore Exteriors is made of completely recyclable materials, this has quickly become another great roofing material choice for eco-concerned homeowners.

Below is a list of all the benefits and concerns to consider before signing off on installing a metal roof:

Pros:

  • Concealed fastening system which means it is not exposed to UV, moisture, wind, and other elements that can cause a fastener to wear or fail over time
  • Highly sustainable material
  • Low maintenance
  • Energy-efficient
  • Lasts 50 years or longer
  • Fire-resistant
  • Great for your entire home or as an accent on a porch, ledge, etc.
  • Large variety of color options and panel styles
  • Distinct style for residential or commercial buildings
  • Made from recycled, environmentally friendly materials

Cons:

  • Costly price tag
  • Can be difficult to repair
  • Can become dented by the elements

 

Ribbed Classic Metal Roof

Red metal roof on home

Built for beauty, durability, and value, no roofing panels work as hard as ribbed classic metal panels! Ideal for any home size in any type of climate because they are designed to withstand against all of the elements.

Check out the pros and cons of a ribbed classic metal roof – and decide for yourself if this is roof you desire for your home:

Pros:

  • Energy-efficient
  • Fire-resistant
  • Lasts 50 years or longer
  • Large color variety
  • Distinct style for residential, commercial, or agricultural buildings

 

Cons:

  • Can be difficult to repair
  • Requires more frequent maintenance
  • Exposed seams

 

General Things to Consider before Choosing Your New Roofing Material

  • Your climate – Wear and tear obviously will play a part in any roof’s lifespan, but some materials will hold up against certain elements better than others. When reading through our lists of pros and cons for each new roof option, take into consideration what your residential climate entails.
  • Your budget – Let’s be honest – money plays a big role in most of your decisions. So when deciding on the right roofing material for your home, you should never feel pressured to spend more than you’re comfortable with. At Mid-Shore Exteriors, we’re honest with you about the cost to install a new roof – and we’ll openly discuss all of your options with you.
  • Your warranties – Each new roofing material comes with their own unique warranties. Always check with your roofing company about the warranties they offer – before signing!

 

So, What is the Best Roofing Material for You?

You shouldn’t have to pick your new roofing option based on looks alone – and thanks to Mid-Shore Exteriors’ guide to choosing a new roofing material, you don’t have to! Now that you know more about asphalt shingle roofs, standing seam metal roofs, slate roofs, cedar shake roofs, and ribbed classic metal roof options, we hope you feel more confident in making a material decision.

For more information about any of the roofing materials listed, or to learn how you can get a free and accurate price quote for your home, contact us today via phone or email.

We look forward to helping you get your best roof!

 

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