Residential Roofing Types
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in residential homes. They’re affordable, versatile, and work well in all environmental conditions. Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, making them an easy option to match your home’s current aesthetics or upgrade the overall look of your property.
This roofing material is one of the most affordable, but it has a shorter lifespan (about 20 years) than other materials. Asphalt is also more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, resulting in peeling, cracking, or missing shingles.
Metal Roofing
Another increasingly popular type of roofing being used in residential homes is metal. Although it sounds industrial, metal roofing can be constructed to look like tile, shake, and even slate roofing. When properly installed, metal roofing can last up to 60 years. The overall durability is matched with strong energy efficiency and fire resistance, which can benefit homes in at-risk areas. All-in-all, there are both pros and cons of metal roofing.
Although the initial cost can be slightly higher than other roofing materials, there are several long-term benefits. While minimal maintenance is required, metal roofing may be more susceptible to dents from hail and can make quite a bit of noise during storms.
Clay Tiles
Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles are extremely popular options for homes in the southwest, where the climate is hot and dry. They have a distinctive appearance with reddish-brown hues and are great at refracting heat and improving a home’s energy efficiency. The tiles are also fire-resistant and low maintenance but shouldn’t be walked on. Since clay tiles are a bit heavier, your home may also need extra support to bear the weight. However, once installed, clay tiles greatly withstand damage from strong winds and even earthquakes.
Concrete Tiles
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Concrete Tiles
It may surprise you, but concrete is another type of roofing you can choose. It has many similarities to the structure of clay tiles, except concrete is a bit more versatile in appearance. The sand0mix used to create each tile can be altered to get a specific hue for your aesthetics. The installation and advantages are very similar to clay tiles, but the cost is significantly less. However, although concrete tiles aren’t as heavy as clay tiles, they will still require a reinforced roof structure for safety and longevity.
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood roofing is another option that’s increasing in popularity. It creates a natural, rustic appearance that complements several different architectural styles. When left unstained, wood shingles start light brown in color and tend to silver over time. They can last up to 50 years, but if you have a wood roof in a dry climate, you need to take the proper precautions against fires. This includes treating your roof regularly. In wet climates, the lifespan may not last as long due to rotting or water damage. Wood shingles/shakes need regular maintenance but are an extremely environmentally friendly option as they’re completely biodegradable.
Slate Shingles
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
One of the more upscale roofing options is slate shingles. This can cost up to seven times more than traditional asphalt, but slate shingle roofs can last well into 100 years when properly installed. Plus, the appearance of slate roofing is extremely elegant as it has a smooth, natural stone appearance. It’s also fire-resistant and offers exceptional protection to your home. However, slate is a heavy material, so you will need to ensure that your home has the right structural stability to support it.
Rubber Slate Roofing
Alternatively, you could opt for rubber slate roofing, which is often made from EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). This type of roofing material is fairly easy to install and requires very little maintenance, but the aesthetics might not be up to the standards of traditional materials. However, rubber slate is a great choice if you have a flat or low-slope roof.
Solar Tiles
Solar panels are another great option for roofing, especially if you live in a sunny environment. They allow you to blend energy efficiency with high-performing functionality in order to generate renewable energy. This, in turn, can result in long-term cost savings on energy bills and a drastic increase in overall property value. However, it’s important that you find someone who understands how to properly install solar panels, as a poor installation job can lead to extremely costly repairs down the line. Solar tiles also come with a higher initial installation cost but may be worth it, depending on your location.
Green Roofing
Synthetic Roofing Materials
An interesting new trend that’s happening around the country is green roofing. Green roofing involves the installation of vegetation (i.e., grasses or wildflowers) on the roof’s surface. This helps support pollinators and offers some natural benefits to your home as well.
Green roofs offer excellent natural insulation, reduce the heat in urban areas, and help to promote all-around environmental sustainability. However, due to the nature of green roofs, they can be fairly difficult to install and require ongoing maintenance. In fact, you’ll need to garden or landscape your roof regularly to avoid overgrowth. Since there is often added weight in soil and grass, your home will also need added structural support for safety reasons.
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Synthetic roofing materials are one of the newest types of roofing available to install. They include things such as composite shingles or faux slate, which mimic the look of natural materials. Several types of synthetic roofing materials offer extremely high durability while keeping overall costs low. Plus, the materials are lightweight, making installation easier and maintenance stress-free. Lifespan can vary depending on the type of material you choose and the installation process, so it’s important to understand your options before making a decision. Unfortunately, synthetic roofing isn’t as environmentally friendly as other options
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-up roofing (BUR) and membrane roofing are common options for flat roofs. Built-up roofing is constructed of asphalt, tar, adhesive, and sometimes even felt or fiberglass. The various layers are stacked on top of one another and sealed with an aggregate to create a durable, weather-resistant surface. The installation can be a little tough and BUR shouldn’t be used on sloped roofs, but they are a great option for industrial buildings or modern, flat-roofed residential homes.
Membrane roofing is made from single-ply roofing membranes like EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), TPO (thermoplastic olefin), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They’re lightweight, work well with flat roofs, and carry the same advantages and disadvantages as BUR..
WHAT IS ROOF SHEATHING?
WHAT IS ROOF SHEATHING MADE OF?
There are two types of roof sheathing. It’s made of either oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood. Both materials are wood, but OSB is more lightweight and costs slightly less. Plywood is a very durable type of roof decking but tends to cost a bit more and is heavier.
Most roofers these days prefer OSB, unless they’re working with a heavier material like slate or concrete roofing tiles. In these cases, plywood is usually a better option.
WHAT DOES ROOF SHEATHING DO?
The primary function of roof sheathing is to strengthen your roof. It offers a sturdy support system on which to build the rest of your roof system.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES ROOF SHEATHING OFFER?
In addition to adding strength to your roof, roof sheathing offers an array of benefits!
HELPS STOPS LEAKS
When people first built asphalt shingle roofs a long time ago, roof sheathing wasn’t always used. Most homeowners found that without sheathing or decking, their roofs were much more likely to leak.
While today’s asphalt shingles feature several weatherproofing treatments, the additional layer of boards will give your roof another layer of protection against the elements. Since many sheathing boards are weatherproofed, this helps prolong the lifespan of your roof and keeps your home safe from water damage.
ADDS STRENGTH AND SUPPORT
Roof sheathing helps distribute weight evenly across your roof. Since sheathing boards are affixed to your roof’s trusses and joints — its strongest supporting beams — they help ensure that heavy loads of snow and precipitation don’t cause bowing or sagging.
Sheathing boards also help your roof to hold up asphalt shingles. Shingles can be a little heavier than you’d expect, and sheathing helps ensure that any weight they add is distributed evenly across the span of your roof.
FIRE PROTECTION
Roof sheathing or decking can also help prevent fires. While nothing is 100% fireproof, many roof sheathing materials come with a fire retardant treatment that can help resist fires on the roof or in the attic.
Is Your Roof Decking Is Failing
HOW TO KNOW WHEN YOU NEED NEW ROOF SHEATHING
Roof sheathing is a critical component of your overall roofing system. If yours is old, outdated, or damaged, you’ll want to have it replaced as soon as possible.
The most common reason to replace roof sheathing is when you re-roof your home, but there are a few other signs that will tell you it’s time to replace your sheathing.
BROKEN OR DAMAGED BOARDS
If you can distinctly see broken sheathing boards, it’s time for a roof replacement. It’s not hard to spot damaged sheathing, as your roof will probably sag, and you may even see sawdust and broken parts in your attic.
Sheathing board damage can happen if a lot of weight is concentrated in one area — like if a tree branch or limb falls on the roof. It can also occur if your roof is well past its expected lifespan.
WATER DAMAGE
Water damage can be dangerous for any part of your roof. If you’re seeing leaks, puddles, or water stains in your ceiling, it’s time to replace at least one element.
Sheathing water damage is particularly bad because it can affect the structure of your roof. It’s best to have water-damaged boards replaced as soon as possible.
ROTTING
If you can see parts of your roof’s sheathing beginning to rot, it’s definitely time for a replacement. Rotting sheathing is often caused by water damage, but it can be less evident if you haven’t yet seen leaks.
The best way to check for rotting sheathing is to head up to your attic with a flashlight. If sheathing has started to rot in places, you should be able to see darkened spots in the wood. If your attic isn’t too tall, you can also go around gently with a hammer or even just your hand to feel for soft spots in the wood.
LIGHT PASSING THROUGH HOLES IN THE ROOF
As a general rule, seeing the sky through your roof is a bad sign. If you head up to your attic with a flashlight and can see the light passing through holes in your roof, it’s time to call a roofer. If the light is getting through, water can get through too.
SAGGING CEILING OR ROOFLINE
The most obvious way to identify roof sheathing damage is to see sagging in your ceiling or roofline. If you’re inside and see areas of the ceiling that seem a little closer to you than others, your sheathing might be to blame.
Similarly, if you can tell from outside the home that parts of your roof are sagging, it’s time to call a roofing contractor.
Roof Leaks
What are the most common causes of Roof Leaks
A leaky roof is often caused by missing or damaged shingles, corroded metal fasteners, damaged flashings, and deteriorated or improper seals. In the Wichita area, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, typically lasting 15-20 years depending on their quality. Over time, weather wreaks havoc on your roof. Shingles start to dry out, crack, curl, and lift, allowing water to get underneath, especially during storms with high winds and heavy rain. Prioritize resolving these issues to protect the value and integrity of your home.
Did you know that metal fasteners and flashings are common reasons your roof may leak? The truth about roof leaks often involves cracks or corrosion, especially around skylights and chimneys. If these flashings are damaged by hail, they can allow water to seep through, leading to significant issues. Corrosion at the fasteners is another prevalent problem. Understanding these vulnerabilities can help you address potential leaks and maintain the integrity of your roof.
Why Can't I Just Fix the Leaky Roof Myself?
Attempting to Fix a Roof Leak Yourself Could Have Serious Consequences
What if you could avoid the risks and regret that come with trying to fix a leaky roof on your own? Climbing onto your roof without proper safety measures can lead to severe physical harm. Additionally, DIY roof repairs can void your homeowner's insurance and potentially cause more damage.
If you damage your own roof, repairs are generally not covered by insurance. Moreover, your roof repair claim requires documentation from an independent third party who must inspect the damage. It's also important to note that roof repairs over 500 sq. ft. require a permit and an inspection from the MABCD. Make the easy choice and avoid unnecessary risks by trusting professionals for your roof repairs.
How Do You Know When To File A Claim!
Straight Line Winds
Straight-line winds, often accompanying a typical storm front, can cause significant damage in a very short time. Unlike rotating tornado winds, these winds travel in one direction and can exceed speeds of 100 miles per hour. According to tests conducted by the National Severe Storms Laboratory, winds over 50-60 mph can damage roofs, uproot trees, and rip off shingles.
Shingles that are blown off can leave large areas of your roof completely unprotected from rain or snow. And shingles thta remain in place but have been bent or curled beyond their limits may lose their waterproof seal. Wind-driven debris, such as tree branches, could crack or pull up shingles and/or knock granules loose.
Hailstorms
A sudden flurry of hailstones can cause immediate damage to shingles, flashings, and gutters. Visible signs of roof hail damage include loss of granules, divots, and cracks. Sometimes, roofing shingles will split beneath their surface due to a hailstone's impact, leaving your roof vulnerable to water infiltration.
Signs of Roof Damage Inside
Storm damage can also impact the interior of your home.
Be on the lookout for these signs:
- Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls: Indicate potential roof leaks caused by hail damage.
- Damp or Moldy Areas: Especially in the attic or upper levels, suggesting water infiltration.
- Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Due to moisture seeping in from damaged shingles.
- Wet or Sagging Drywall: C
Should you Show your Insurance Estimate to Your Contractor
When your roof endures the impact of a severe storm, it's natural to feel concerned about its condition. Fortunately, if you have homeowner's insurance, you have the option to file a claim with your insurance company to cover the necessary repairs.
While dealing with roof damage is undoubtedly stressful, navigating the insurance claim process can amplify your worries. Even if you've gone through the process before, it's common to have numerous questions lingering in your mind.
"Should I share my insurance claim with you?"
The truth is, it's crucial to share your insurance claim with your prospective contractor. This information is essential for them to understand the complete scope of roofing work that your insurance company deems necessary. By being fully informed about the insurance process, you can make more confident decisions regarding your roof repairs or replacement.
- 3 Reasons Your Contractor Needs to See Your Insurance Estimate
- Can Insurance Cover a Full Roof Replacement?
They need to know what work has been approved
By neglecting to share your insurance paperwork with your roofing contractor, they will remain oblivious to the fact that you have an active claim. Consequently, they won't have insight into what your insurance covers in terms of the estimate and the extent of necessary work.
Without this crucial information, there is a risk that your contractor may provide a quote exceeding the summary pricing outlined by your insurance company. Summary pricing represents the predetermined market value of services covered by your insurance, encompassing labor and material costs, and it is regularly updated.
It's important to note that certain insurance adjusters may overlook specific items mandated by local codes. If your policy includes a provision for code upgrades, your insurance company is obligated to cover these expenses. However, if you fail to share your claim with your contractor, they won't be aware of the coverage for code upgrades, potentially leading to a significantly higher quote compared to your insurance estimate.
By disclosing your claim to your contractor, you ensure that your damaged roof receives precisely what it requires while adhering to the guidelines outlined in your insurance policy. This transparency guarantees that you receive the necessary repairs while staying in compliance with your insurance coverage.
It Prevents You From Accidentally Committing Fraud
To ensure a smooth process, it is essential to discuss any potential roofing claims with an insurance agent. Once your claim is approved, depending on your policy, your insurance company will issue a check for your roof's Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV). Let's break down each policy:
ACV Policy: This policy covers the depreciated value of your roof. If you have this policy, your insurance company will send you a check reflecting the current value of your roof.
RCV Policy: Under this policy, your insurance company will cover the cost of replacing your roof. You will initially receive a check for the ACV of your roof before repairs commence. The insurance company will retain the calculated amount of depreciation, known as recoverable depreciation.
Recoverable Depreciation: This is the final check sent by your insurance company after you provide proof of repair or replacement completion. Once your project is finished, you will receive a letter of completion along with an invoice. Submitting the invoice to your insurance company allows you to receive a second check for the depreciated amount over the roof's lifetime.
For homeowners with an RCV policy, showing your claim to a contractor prevents inadvertent insurance fraud. If your contractor's estimate falls short of the agreed-upon payment from your insurance, you cannot keep the leftover money.
To avoid insurance fraud, all repairs listed in your insurance claim must be included in your contractor's scope of work. This requirement is why an RCV policy demands proof of completion before releasing a check for recoverable depreciation. Requesting the check without completing the necessary work can result in your insurance company identifying it as fraud.
It Builds Trust Between You & Your Contractor
Once your insurance claim is approved, seeking quotes from multiple roofing contractors becomes unnecessary. By sharing your paperwork with your chosen contractor, they can focus on providing you with a top-notch roof that meets the requirements set by your insurance.
This collaborative approach fosters trust between you and the contractor. Since they are working with an insurance claim, they have no motivation to upsell you on materials or components that are not specified in your claim.
Rest assured that your contractor will provide an honest breakdown of your claim, while you can trust them to handle the project correctly from the start. Building this trust ensures that your roof is completed to your satisfaction, aligned with your insurance guidelines.
Gable Roofing Locally Owned Roofing Company
Provides expert roofing services in wichita, ks
We specialize in roofing systems that are damaged by hailstorms, falling trees or tree limbs, high speed winds, and deteriorating roof shingles. If you're going to be filing a homeowner's insurance claim for roof storm damage, we'll work with your insurance company throughout the process. We provide free roof inspections and repair estimates for residential and commercial roofs. Financing is available and we also offer a deductible payment plan with 0% APR and 0 Interest rates. You have a whole year to pay it off.
How Much For Roof Materials?
1. Asphalt Shingles
1. Asphalt Shingles
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles, also known as composite shingles, are the most common type of roofing materials. Found in 80% of homes, these shingles comprise fiberglass or cellulose mat, asphalt, and mineral granules. Asphalt shingle roofs come in a variety of colors and are a Cost Effective replacement solution.
Asphalt shingles last approximately 20 years and work for all climates. If you live in a region prone to icy conditions and hail, consider upgrading to an impact-resistant variety. Specially treated algae-resistant varieties are also available for subtropical areas.
Price: $1.75 to $5.50 per square foot
Pros
- Available
- Affordable
- Variety of color options
- Low-maintenance
- Water-resistant
- Recyclable into pavement
Cons
- Color fades; impossible to color match shingle replacements
- Short lifespan compared to other options
- Prone to wind damage
- Overused; 80% of homes have asphalt shingles
Types of Shingles
There are two dominant styles of asphalt shingles, three-tab and architectural shingles, both offering distinct style characteristics.
Three-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles are the cheapest option. These asphalt shingles comprise an outer layer of asphalt, adhesives, and granules with a fiberglass backing. They have a flat appearance and are cut to look like traditional shingles.
Three-tab shingles offer quick installation times and last between 7 to 15 years. While they make an economical choice, they are only rated for winds up to 60 mph and are prone to damage.
Cost: $1 to $3 per square foot
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles offer a more substantial alternative to three-tab shingles. They are thicker, creating a layered, textured roof that is more durable, lasting between 18 to 20 years. Additionally, they are more weather-resistant and can withstand extremely high winds up to 120 mph.
Cost: $4.50 to $7 per square foot
2. Metal Roofing
1. Asphalt Shingles
1. Asphalt Shingles
Contrary to popular belief, metal roofs are not more prone to lightning strikes. Metal roofing is a broad category covering a range of materials and styles. This type of roofing can be an affordable option with a high return on investment (ROI) depending on the metal.
Metals like aluminum, zinc, tin, and steel are cost-effective and low-maintenance options, while copper offers a unique appearance for the high-end metal roof. Metal roofs last between 40 to 80 years and require very little maintenance
Price: $3 to $30 per square foot
Pros
- Durable
- Low-maintenance
- Recyclable
- Lightweight
- Fire-resistant
- Mold- and rot-resistant
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- Noisy without soundproofing
- Can warp over time
- Specialized labor required for installation
Metal Roof Styles
Metal roofs come in two distinct styles, metal shingles and standing seam, depending on your budget and design aesthetics.
Metal Shingles
Metal shingles mimic the aesthetics of traditional roofing while providing the low maintenance and durability of a metal roof.
Standing Seam
Standing seam roofs last two to three times longer than non-metal roofs. They are extremely easy to install, comprising large, vertical metal panels joined by interlocking seams.
3. Wood Roofing
1. Asphalt Shingles
4. Slate Roofing
In a perfect world with optimal conditions and a dry climate, your new wood roof will last 50 years. However, the average wood roof lasts around 25 years. Best suited for dryer regions, these roofs will age more quickly in wet climates like the salty East Coast.
Wood roofs comprise shingles or shakes and are most commonly crafted from pine, red cedar, cypress, and redwood. Shingles are less expensive and offer a crisp and clean appearance when installed thanks to their milled uniform length and thickness. Shakes, on the other hand, offer a more rustic and textured look as these tiles are hand split and resemble wedges.
Cost of shingles: $3.50 to $7.50 per square foot
Cost of shakes: $6 to $10 per square foot
Pros
- Natural
- High curb appeal
- Energy-efficient
- Sustainable
Cons
- High-maintenance
- Require chemical treatments for fire-resistance
- Susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot
- Banned in certain regions of California, Colorado, and Texas
4. Slate Roofing
6. Concrete Tiles
4. Slate Roofing
Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, but it comes with a high price tag. Often found in luxury homes, these roofs last anywhere from 60 to 150 years and can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, high winds, and hail.
Also known as shale roofing, the thin sheets of actual stone are fire-resistant, making the material an ideal choice for dry regions.
Cost: $7 to $20 per square foot
Pros
- Suitable for all climates
- Water-resistant; not susceptible to fungus or mold growth
- Fire-resistant
- Durable
- Low-maintenance
- Eco-friendly and recyclable
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy; may require additional structural support
- Requires highly specialized installation
Metal Slate Roofing
If your budget is feeling stretched by slate, consider stone-coated steel tiles, also known as metal slate roofing. These tiles last approximately 30 years and give the look of a slate roof without weight.
Metal slate roofing is weather-resistant, eco-friendly, and more budget friendly. The downside to these steel tiles is the noise. You may need to consider soundproofing before installing your new roof to reduce outside noise and vibrations.
Cost: $5 to $12 per square foot
5. Clay Tiles
6. Concrete Tiles
6. Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles date back 5,000 years, making them one of the oldest roofing materials. Similar to slate roofing, clay tiles will last over 100 years. These tiles are ideal for tropical climates and are common in Southern California and Florida.
Clay tiles can withstand extremely high winds and constant salt exposure. Many clay types darken with age. Tiles come in four dominant styles: mission, interlocking, French, and Spanish to fit any design aesthetic.
Cost: $8 to $20 per square foot
Pros
- Low-maintenance
- Natural materials
- Energy-efficient
- High curb appeal
- Salt-tolerant
Cons
- Not suited for areas with harsh winters and hail
- Heavy; may require additional structural support
- Expensive
6. Concrete Tiles
6. Concrete Tiles
6. Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles offer the same qualities as clay tiles for half of the price. These tiles last over 100 years, and their seamless design resists leaks and water damage. They are fire resistant and darken with age. The molded tiles come in any color and a variety of profiles, including those mimicking wood shakes and clay tiles.
Cost: $4 to $10 per square foot
Pros
- Durable
- Low-maintenance
- Energy-efficient
- High curb appeal
- Fire-resistant
Cons
- Heavy; may require additional structural support
7. Rubber Roofing
7. Rubber Roofing
Rubber tiles offer durable and budget-friendly options. The eco-friendly material is manufactured in many colors and styles. Tiles resist discoloration and cracking and are easy to repair.
Rubber tiles often mimic the aesthetics of slate and from the ground, it can be almost impossible to tell the difference. These have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years and are incredibly low-maintenance.
Cost: $4 to $8 per square foot
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Inexpensive
- Insulating
- Low-maintenance
- Eco-friendly; comprised of up to 95% recycled materials
- Recyclable
Cons
- Can develop mold spots
- Short lifespan
- New roofs put off a strong rubber odor
8. Green Roofing
7. Rubber Roofing
Green roofs invoke thoughts of Hobbits and apple pies cooling in the open window of a fairytale cottage. These living roofs comprise grass and native vegetation like wildflowers to form an insulating barrier.
They last 30 to 50 years and have a beneficial impact on the environment. Green roofs reduce air pollution and can absorb up to 90% of rainfall, preventing flooding and drastically reducing polluted runoff.
Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot
Pros
- Durable
- Environmental, supports pollinators
- Reduces runoff
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- High-maintenance
- Heavy; requires additional structural support
- Requires highly specialized installation
- Requires a flat or low-slope profile
9. Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing is one of the most affordable options, and the labor is very cost-effective. It comprises large rolls of asphalt material topped with mineral granules.
These materials work best on low-slope roofs and are not suited to flat roofs. While being easy on the wallet, unfortunately rolled roofing has a short lifespan of only five to ten years.
Cost: $1.50 to $3 per square foot
Pros
- Great option for low-slow roofs
- No additional costs for underlayment
Cons
- Short lifespan
- Low-quality
10. Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofing provides another affordable option for low-slope or flat roofs. With a lifespan of 20 to 35 years, membrane roofing comes in a variety of watertight materials, including Neoprene, PVC, and the popular rubber EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).
Cost: $4 to $10 per square foot
Pros
- Great option for low-slow or flat roofs
- Durable
- UV-resistant
- Easy to repair
Cons
- Only come in black or white
- Best for climates with little to no snow
- Less insulated than most options
- Prone to debris build-up
11. Built-up Roofing (BUR)
11. Built-up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofs are one of the oldest types of roofs for flat and low-slope homes. Constructed using roofing felt made from asphalt, two to four overlapping layers are built-up and crushed stone is embedded on top to increase durability. Built-up roofs last around 20 to 30 years and are fire resistant.
Cost: $2.50 to $5 per square foot
Pros
- Great option for flat or low-slope roofs
- UV-resistant
- Inexpensive
- Durable
- Low-maintenance
- Fire-resistant
Cons
- Susceptible to cracks and areas of pooling water
- Prone to blistering
12. Solar Shingles
11. Built-up Roofing (BUR)
Solar shingles are the newest option and one of the most expensive. Specialized labor is required to install this type of roof. Solar shingles resemble asphalt shingles and provide the same durability and flexibility.
Each shingle produces 13 to 63 watts of energy, less than solar panels. Solar tiles have a lifespan of approximately 20 to 30 years, though output will diminish around the 20-year mark.
Cost: $21 to $25 per square foot
Pros
- Renewable and usable energy
- Increases resale value
- Weather-resistant
Cons
- Heavy; may require additional structural support and wiring
- Requires specialized installation
- Expensive