The perfect roof protects your home, shows off your style, and goes easy on your wallet. But with so many roofing materials available, it can be hard to know which one’s right for you. To help you decide, here are five of the most popular roofing types and what you can expect from each one. 

5 Materials to Consider for Your Roof 

1. Metal

Made of steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloy, metal roofs are extremely durable. They protect against fire and wind and can last several decades. Additionally, when a metal roof’s long life ends, you can easily recycle the material. The price, though, may deter some homeowners since metal is among the most expensive materials. 

2. Asphalt

A common and affordable option, asphalt roofs consist of fiberglass combined with bitumen and coated with mineral granules. While an asphalt roof will save you money, it won’t save the environment since it’s petroleum-based. Moreover, its durability varies based on the quality of the asphalt. To ensure your roof holds up, invest in quality over economy.

3. Wood

Wood roofs are typically made of cedar, redwood, or southern pine. They cost more than asphalt roofs but offer a natural, eco-friendly style. However, natural wood also comes with poor fire resistance. If you decide on wood, treat it with a fire retardant. Additionally, the durability of wood can vary, though regular roof maintenance can extend its life span.

4. Slate

Roofs composed of natural slate rock benefit not only the environment but also your home’s appearance—these roofs are known for their beauty and elegance. Furthermore, they boast excellent durability, with some surviving over 100 years. Yet all these advantages come at a cost—the material is perhaps the priciest you will come across. 

5. Tile

Tile roofs generally consist of either clay or concrete, with concrete being less expensive. These aesthetically pleasing roofs can last many decades, but the brittle material may sometimes break. Although the roofs contain natural materials, manufacturing them requires significant energy, so tile isn’t the most eco-friendly option.

Whether you’ve chosen your material or you need more help deciding, Tory’s Roofing & Waterproofing in Pearl City, HI, is ready to provide the right roof for your home. As one of the oldest and largest roofing contractors in the state, the family-operated company has protected homes and businesses for more than 45 years. Visit them online or call (808) 456-5990 to schedule a free estimate today.