Types of Residential Roofs

When it’s time to replace your current roof or install a roof on a new home, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with all the options on the market. How do you decide which type of residential roof is right for you?

At Champion Roofing, we have 30 years of experience helping homeowners like you inspect, maintain, and install residential roofs of all kinds, and we are here to help you make this decision.

To get started, we have compiled a list of the most common types of residential roofs used across the country as well as tips for how to choose the right kind of roof for your home. However, if you need some expert advice while making your decision, contact us for additional guidance or to get a free estimate.

5 Common Residential Roof Types

There is a wide variety of home roof types to choose from, but we see these five types of residential roofs used more frequently on homes in the United States.

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of residential roofing material. And it’s no surprise why: They are a durable, relatively inexpensive choice that comes in a large range of colors and styles.

There are two main categories of asphalt shingles: three-tab shingles and architectural-style shingles. Three-tab asphalt shingles are the more generic style, with each single-layer shingle having two narrow slots that divides it into three tabs. Architectural-style asphalt shingles have a more dramatic visual impact due to the textured surface of the dual strips.

Both styles of asphalt shingles are easy to install and maintain.

2. Clay, Concrete, and Ceramic Tiles

Tiles made from clay, concrete, or ceramic may be on the more expensive side, but they add lots of character to the appearance of a home. They are unique and striking, making them an especially great match for Mediterranean- or Spanish-style homes.

Clay and ceramic tiles come glazed or unglazed and can be found in many different colors and shapes. Concrete tiles, on the other hand, are often unfinished and therefore keep their natural gray color.

These tiles are resistant to fire and wind and naturally help keep homes cooler. However, while they are easy to install, they are also heavy, so you need to make sure your roof can withstand the extra weight of these tiles before moving forward.

3. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is an increasingly popular choice because it is lightweight, extremely durable, and recyclable. This type of residential roof features long, overlapping panels made from aluminum, steel, copper, or another type of metal that start at the roof peek and continue to the eaves. Its appearance goes well with almost any style of home.

A distinct advantage of metal roofs is that they are low maintenance and shed ice and snow. However, while installation can be quick, it does require a roofing contractor with experience in this type of roof.

4. Slate Shingles

Natural slate shingles are extremely durable, mildew-resistant, fireproof, and easy to maintain. They are an elegant, upscale choice and come in a variety of colors and styles.

Slate shingles are one of the most expensive types of residential roofing material to purchase and install, and since they are so heavy, you need to hire an engineer to determine if the framing of your home’s roof can sustain the weight of slate shingles.

However, with an expected lifespan of 50 to 100 plus years and the variety of protective features, it’s easy to see how such an investment will pay off.

5. Wood Shakes and Shingles

Cedar roofs are a naturally beautiful option for your home. Their distinctive color and texture can be seen from the street and can improve the aesthetic appearance of your property.

Wood shakes are more rustic and have more character due to the thicker, rougher, uneven surface of the sawn wood. Wood shingles are thinner and smoother, giving the roof a more uniform appearance.

Both shakes and shingles are an environmentally friendly roofing choice when made from recycled wood and harvested appropriately. Cedar roofs are also naturally resistant to most weather conditions, insect damage, and UV rays. If treated with fire retardant, they can also offer resistance to fire.

How to Choose the Right Type of Residential Roof for Your Home

As you consider which type of residential roof to install on your house, ask yourself these questions:

• What is your home’s architectural style?
• What residential roof type do you personally prefer?
• What roofing materials fit within your budget?
• Are there weather-related or other environmental factors to consider based on the location of your home?
• How long do you need or want the new roof to last?

Your answers to these questions will help you determine the type of roof that will best fit your home.

Contact Champion Roofing for All Your Chicago Residential Roofing Needs

At Champion Roofing, we offer a range of services, including roof inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement—all thanks to our industry-leading team of professional roofing contractors. With 30 years of experience serving residents in the region, we are proud to be a leader in the Chicago roofing industry.

Our roofing team is ready to guide you through every step of your project. Whether you need to repair damaged shingles, install gutters, or replace your roof entirely, we are here to help.

Contact us today to get a free quote. Your roof is worth the investment.