Roofing Types
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Asphalt Composition Shingles
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Materials: Made of either an organic paper fiber mat (better for cold weather and wind resistance) or fiberglass (more fire and moisture resistant) impregnated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules.
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Appearance: Available in traditional 3-tab shingles or thicker laminated “architectural” shingles.
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Eco-Friendly: Petroleum based product that’s not eco-friendly. Can be recycled, though often taken to landfills.
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Weight: Moderate in weight.
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Slope: Can be used on fairly low to steeper sloped roofs.
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Fire & Wind: Good fire resistance, fair wind resistance.
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Cost: Inexpensive to moderate.
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Metal
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Materials: May be composed of steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloy. Steel roofs come with either a zinc coating or painted finish. Copper roofs are installed unfinished and acquire a protective green patina with age.
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Appearance: Available in sheets or in shingles that resemble other materials. Can be installed with the fasteners hidden (standing seam) or exposed.
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Eco-Friendly: May be made from recycled materials and can be recycled when replaced. Absorb a third less heat than asphalt.
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Weight: Lightweight.
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Slope: Available for low or steep sloped roofs.
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Fire & Wind: Good resistance to both fire and wind.
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Cost: Moderate (steel) to expensive (copper).
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Wood Singles and Shakes
Materials: Commonly made of cedar, but can also be made of other rot resistant woods, such as redwood. -
Appearance: Gives natural look, weathers to a silvery gray. Available in sawn shingles or thicker split shakes.
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Eco-Friendly: Made from natural materials.
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Weight: Moderate in weight.
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Slope: Can be used on moderate to steep sloped roofs.
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Fire & Wind: Good wind resistance, poor fire resistance (can be treated with a fire retardant).
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Cost: Moderate.
