If you're building a new home or re-roofing an old one, you have a wide variety of materials to choose from. Most roofing companies provide tiles, shingles, and other materials in an endless array of colors and styles. So how do you know which is right for your home? Here, D.B. Gulliver & Son Roofing of Hinesville, GA, outlines the pros and cons of the five most popular roof materials in the country.

5 Common Roof Construction Materials

1. Asphalt Shingles

At approximately $1 per square foot, asphalt shingles are the least expensive roofing option available, which is why their use is so widespread. However, they also have one of the shortest lifespans, lasting roughly 20 years—with performance depreciation well before that.

2. Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are an even shorter-lived option and will require replacement by a reputable roofing company about every 15 years. In the meantime, they are an excellent aesthetic choice that will emphasize your home’s natural charm.

3. Slate or Tile

With roof repairs as needed, a slate or tile roof can last upwards of 50 years. Many attractive tile designs are available in an array of colors, and tile roofs are resistant to the weathering that affects shingles.

4. Metal Roofing

When treated properly, a metal roof with the right coating is the most energy-efficient roofing option available. It also lasts just as long as a tile roof and is more resilient to impact damage.

5. Flat Roof

A flat roof has less surface area than a pitched one, which means it's usually cheaper and more durable. Flat roofs also allow for more efficient use of space, both by accommodating appliances and equipment and by allowing full-height rooms on the top floor of your property.

If you still aren't sure which option best suits your needs, a roofing company can help you decide. Call D.B. Gulliver & Son Roofing at (912) 876-4401 to arrange an estimate, or follow them on Facebook for news and updates.