I’ve been an architect for more than a decade, and if there’s one thing I’ve seen people take for granted when building a new residential, it’s the roofing. A lot more goes into picking the right roof for a new home than most people think. For starters, there are lots of options to choose from.
There are many types of roofs available, but the following are the most popular ones for residential buildings:

• Asphalt shingles
• Metal roofing
• Tiles
• Slate shingles
• Wood shake

In this article, I will go over each type of roof, revealing their pros and cons, maintenance requirements, and cost. Bear in mind that these roof types are used as roofing materials. They are each suited for different roofing styles, which I’ll indicate. You can also check out the most popular residential roofing styles to know which one will work best for your new home.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular type of roof for houses in Wisconsin and the United States in general. They are affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors and styles. They can last up to 30 years and are relatively damage-resistant, but they are not as durable as other roofing materials. Asphalt shingle roofs are best suited for gable, hip, and mansard roof styles.

Cost: The cost of an asphalt shingle roof ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot.
Maintenance: Homeowners should clean their gutters regularly and remove any debris from the roof.

Pros

• Affordable
• Easy to install
• Wide range of colors and styles available.

Cons

• Not as durable as other roofing materials
• Can be damaged by extreme weather conditions.

Metal Roof

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their several benefits; they are long-lasting, energy-efficient, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. They can last up to 50 years or more and are resistant to fire, mildew, and insects. This roofing material is best suited for gable, hip, and shed roofing styles. Alongside solar panels and polycarbonate roofing, metal roofs are popularly used in modern architecture.

Cost: The cost of a metal roof ranges from $5 to $12 per square foot or about $10,000 to $41,500 on average.
Maintenance: Metal roofs require little maintenance, but homeowners should inspect for damage and repair any punctures or dents to prevent leaks.

Pros

• Long-lasting.
• Energy-efficient.
• Resistant to fire, mildew, and insects.

Cons

• Higher initial cost than other roofing materials
• Can be noisy during rain or hail storms.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tile roofs are common in warmer regions like the Mediterranean, California, and Florida. They are durable, fire-resistant, and have an attractive appearance. While they can last up to 70 years or more, they are heavy and require a reinforced roof structure. Tile roofs are commonly used for gable and hip roofs.

Cost: The cost of a tile roof ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot.
Maintenance: Concrete tiles require little maintenance, but homeowners should clean gutters regularly and replace any cracked or broken tiles.

Pro

• Can withstand tornadoes, hurricanes, and strong winds.
• Fire-resistant
• Attractive.

Cons

• Heavy
• Requires a reinforced roof structure
• Expensive.

Slate Shingles

Slate roofs are high-end and very durable as they cannot rot, but they are also expensive. This roof type is popularly used for historic or luxury homes. Slate roofs can last up to 100 years or more and are resistant to fire, mildew, and insects. They make a great choice for gambrel and mansard roofs

Cost: The cost of a slate roof ranges from $25 to $35 per square foot.
Maintenance: Slate roofs require little maintenance, but homeowners should replace any cracked or broken tiles and clean gutters regularly.

Pro

• Very durable
• Fire-resistant
• Waterproof, so it works great in wet climates
• Attractive.

Cons

• Very expensive
• Heavy
• Requires a reinforced roof structure.
• May break easily when stepped on.

Wooden Shake Shingles

Wood shake roofs are made from natural materials and give a rustic look to a home. They require more maintenance than other types of roofs, but they can resist harsh climates and can last at least 30 years with proper care. Wood shake roofs are suited for shed, gable, and mansard roof styles.

Cost: The cost of a wood shake roof ranges from $6 to $12 per square foot.
Maintenance: Wood shake roofs require regular maintenance, including cleaning gutters, removing debris, and treating for insects and moisture. Homeowners should also inspect for any signs of wear or damage and repair or replace as needed

Pros

• Attractive
• Eco-friendly
• Can survive harsh climates

Cons

• Requires more maintenance than other roofing materials
• Can be damaged by insects and moisture
• Can be difficult to install