Home improvement projects continue to surge as we come out of the pandemic. Major roof renovations are among them.

If you are putting on a new one, there are many roofing materials to choose from and at different price points. And each comes with pros and cons. It can be difficult to know where to start.

The good news is that there are some basic categories of material and characteristics to consider for your roof renovation. Keep reading to find out more about each so that you can determine which is the right choice for your home and your budget.

Asphalt Roofing

The most common roofing material used in the United States is asphalt. That is because they are among the most economical, both for the product and labor (they are easy to install).

There are some drawbacks to asphalt shingles though. One is that they will not last as long as some other roofing materials, such as metal. Also, they are less insulating than other roof products, like slate or wood. A final deficit is that some shingles–especially low-quality ones–tend to fade over time.

The quality of asphalt roofing materials can vary widely. So, if you want them to last and look good longer, select a high-quality shingle.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has been growing in popularity in recent years. That is due to its extreme durability. While asphalt roofs last between 15 and 30 years, you can expect to get 50 years or more from a metal roof. Metal roofs also require less upkeep and fewer repairs.

The most common metal used in roofing is steel, which is very durable and corrosion-resistant. Aluminum also withstands rust and is much lighter and cheaper than steel.

Other options include copper and zinc. These are some of the most expensive of any type of roof. These metals are durable and give a distinct look to your home. One downside is that metal roofs can cost more than twice that of asphalt ones.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is very common in Europe and other places in the world, but less so in the United States. Slate shingles provide a unique aesthetic to your home.

True slate shingles are 100 percent stone. This makes them one of the most durable roofing products available. And they are resistant to the threat of fire.

Slate shingles will be much heavier and more expensive–up to five times the cost of asphalt–than other roofing materials. They also are more difficult to install, so you may pay more in labor as well.

Wood Roofing

A lot of people go with wood shingles due to the rustic appearance it gives a home. Wood roofing will be more expensive than asphalt, but in general, is a cheaper alternative to other types on this list.

You can expect wood roofing to last longer than asphalt, but over time they can become susceptible to rot or mold. If you go with wood, be sure to select a reputable installation company, like Chad Dodson Roofing, which carries high-quality products that can resist decay and fires.

Find the Right Roofing Materials

Now that you have an idea of the pros and cons of different roofing materials, you can select the one that is right for your home. Be sure to contact a prominent contractor, so that you can have the peace of mind that your roof is put on correctly and will last for many years.

We hope you found this information helpful. If so, be sure to check out some of our other home improvement and real estate blog posts.