While different roofing materials have their strengths and weaknesses, you should not rely solely on these traits when deciding which type to install on your home. You should also consider the area where your house is located.

Roofing needs vary in regions with different climates. Before buying a particular roof for your house, you should know the qualities of different roofing materials to be able to choose the ones most suitable for your region’s climate.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is extremely durable and could last up to 50 years or more. This roof is ideal for practically all types of climate especially in wet or rainy areas. Modern metals are waterproof and resistant to corrosion. They are also treated to resist against algae infestation.

Clay Tiles

These are more expensive than shingles or metals but they are popular choices for use in hot areas and desert climates. They are good in blocking heat and keeping the interiors cool and at the same time able to resist wind. Unlike other roof materials, we do not recommend this one for DIY practitioners because installing tiles requires special tools and training. In fact, in some areas finding a qualified installer may be hard to do.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Houses in places where temperatures are soaring are not ideal for wood shingles and shakes as they tend to crack or split under high temperatures. Places where rain is common is also not an ideal place for this type of roofing particularly when the materials used are not of high quality because they rot easily.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are durable, inexpensive and attractive, which make them the most commonly-used roofing type in the country. They do well against heavy rain, snow, moderate winds and even minor hail. However, they are not really suited for extremely hot and dry climates since these temperatures tend to shorten the lifespan of the roof by about 20 to 40 percent. In warm climates you can choose light-colored shingles that are better in reflecting heat.

Slate

This roofing material is very durable and should be good to use in almost any kind of climate. Slate works well in cooling down your house during hot weather. It also performs well against heavy rains. In cold areas, snow could fall for months. While slate roofing is heavy, this should not prevent you from using it. Just do not forget to reinforce your roof to withstand the combined weight of the roofing material and accumulation of heavy snow.

One of the most common types of roofing materials are shingles. While shingles are generally associated with asphalt shingles, they actually embrace a wider range of materials.

Shingles include almost every roof cover type that does not involve a single material capping the entire roof. Hence, shingles could be made from different materials such as the common asphalt, wood, clay, tile and even metal.

Each type of shingle has its corresponding costs in labor and materials. The costlier versions are the so-called impact-resistant shingles since they provide defense against leaks, create roof deck protection, improve the physical appeal of the house and enhance energy efficiency.

To help you prepare your budget before embarking on a roofing project, we provide an estimate of the costs involved in the installation of the different types of shingles:

Asphalt Shingles

The most common type of shingles used for roofing because they cost less than other materials and are relatively easier to install, which make them perfect for DIY practitioners. They are lighter than other shingle types, and therefore, more convenient to use.

The cost of DIY asphalt shingles on a normal ranch-style house would range from $680 to $3,700. The cost variation depends on the design, material quality and roof size. Hiring a professional costs from $1,700 to $8,400.

Metal

Metals provide the longest roof lifespan because they are durable and not affected by issues faced by other shingles. Its high cost but long life make metal suited for people intending to stay in their homes for a long time.

Metal roofs cost from $5,100 to $22,000. Aluminum has a higher price range—$11,900 to $24,200. The cost of copper roofs range from around $25,500 to $39,600.

Slate

Its natural look and durability make slate a favorite among homeowners. Indeed, larger houses usually have slate for their roofs.

Costs vary from $17,000 to $84,000 for a 2,000 square-foot home. A 3,000 square-foot home will cost from $27,000 to $120,000 depending on location and design.

Tile

People love tiles because they can be formed into different colors and shapes. They are also easy to replace if they are damaged.

The cost of concrete tiles runs from $7,650 to $21,000. Ceramic tiles will cost around $11,900. If you want to customize the tiles, you will shell out a higher amount from $17,000 to $60,000.

Wood Shake

Wood shakes have more aesthetic appeal but require more maintenance because they deteriorate faster than other materials and are fire-prone. Insects and molds are other issues affecting wood shake shingles.

The costs vary from $6,800 to $20,000. Synthetic or simulated wood shakes made from rubber or plastic, which provide better fire protection, cost around $12,600 to $18,900.