Types of Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles feature a fiberglass base coated in asphalt and topped with ceramic-coated granules. They come in two varieties: basic three-tab and architectural.

Cost: $1 – $5 per square foot

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are aluminum or steel and feature a stone coating or mineral granules to increase longevity. They provide the durability of metal standing seam roofs but offer the textured look of shingles.

Cost: $7 to $15 per square foot

Wood Shingles/Shake

There are many types of wood shingles or shakes, including cedar, white oak, red oak, cypress, and Eastern white pine. Cedar is a popular choice because it’s naturally insect and rot-resistant.

Cost: $4.50 – $14 per square foot

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are a sustainable roof option made of earthen clay that’s molded to size and baked at a very high temperature. The process makes clay durable and ideal roofing for hot and coastal climates.

Cost: $5-$15 per square foot

Solar Roof Shingles

Solar shingles, or photovoltaic shingles, are small solar panels formed into the shape of a shingle. They can go over your existing shingles or directly on the roof.

Cost: $14-$19 per square foot

Green Roofing

Green roofs are sustainable but not easy to construct. They consist of living plants over a waterproof membrane.

Cost: Varies by type and size

Membrane Roofing

Membrane roofing consists of a thin waterproof sheet of material. Membrane roofs are most common for commercial buildings and RVS, but you could use this type of roof on a home.

Cost: $4.25 – $14 per square foot

Built-Up Roof (BUR)

A Built-Up Roof features several layers of alternating material. In a BUR system, a contractor will first lay a sheet of insulation and then add alternating layers of ply sheets and bitumen, topping the roof with aggregate.

Cost: $3.50 – $7 per square foot

Rolled Roofing

Rolled roofing is the equivalent of asphalt shingles for flat or low-sloped roofs on non-residential structures. Rolled roofing has an asphalt base reinforced with fiberglass and is mineral resurfaced.

Cost: $50 per square

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