Complete Materials List for Roof Replacement: A Homeowner's Guide

Replacing your roof can be a daunting task, but with the right materials, you'll be on your way to a safe and secure home. To start, you'll need to gather the necessary materials, which can be found in our comprehensive list below.

Here's what you'll need to get started: asphalt shingles, which come in a variety of colors and styles, and are the most popular choice for residential roofs.

A roof underlayment, also known as a roofing felt, is a crucial layer that protects your home from water damage and provides a smooth surface for shingle installation. It's usually made of a waterproof material like asphalt or plastic.

For a secure and watertight seal, you'll need to purchase roofing nails, which come in different types, such as galvanized or stainless steel.

A bundle of roofing felt paper, also known as roofing felt, is a must-have for any roof replacement project.

Flat roofs have their own set of challenges, especially when it comes to water leaks. The most common roofing materials for flat roofs are PVC, EPDM, and TPO, each with its own unique characteristics.

PVC is a single-ply membrane that's flexible and durable, with high solar reflectivity, and can last 15-30 years. EPDM membrane, on the other hand, comes in large sheets, minimizing the need for seams, but seams are prone to leaks over time. TPO is a common option for commercial facilities, with seams welded with a hot-air gun, lasting 7-20 years.

Here's a brief rundown of the common types of flat roof materials:

Metal roofing is another popular option, made from four basic alloys: steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Steel is the most common, with subtypes like galvanized steel and Galvalume, while aluminum is a great choice for coastal climates.

Metal roofing is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. It can last 50 years or more, depending on the type of alloy and installation.

Metal roofs are made from four basic alloys: steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Steel is the most common, and it comes in subtypes like galvanized steel and Galvalume. Aluminum is a great choice for coastal climates, while copper and zinc are often used for high-end projects.

A properly installed metal roof can withstand winds from an F2 tornado on the Fujita Scale. Metal roofs are also lightweight, weighing about half as much as asphalt shingles.

Here's a comparison of three types of metal roofing:

Keep in mind that the lifespan of a metal roof can vary depending on the type of alloy and installation.

Asphalt shingles cover roughly 80% of homes in the United States, making them the most common type of roofing material.

They are also cost-effective and versatile, offering a wide range of styles and colors to suit any home's aesthetic.

Rolled roofing is another option, often used for low-sloped residential roofs and utilitarian structures like sheds and garages.

It's a cost-effective and easy-to-install option, but it's not as durable as some other materials.

Metal roofing, slate shingles, and synthetic options also provide excellent durability and aesthetic appeal, but they tend to be more expensive than asphalt shingles.

Local climate, budget, and personal preference play crucial roles in determining the best roofing material, so it's essential to consider these factors when making a decision.

Asphalt shingles are the most common due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility, but other materials offer unique benefits that may be worth considering.

Asphalt roofing is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability and ease of installation. It's the most common roofing material in America, favored for its affordability and ease of installation.

Asphalt shingles are made of asphalt, adhesives, fiberglass, and a granule mix on the surface. They're easy to install and can offer quality performance for over 25 years.

Asphalt shingles come in different types, including 3-tab, architectural, and designer series. 3-tab shingles are the most affordable option, while architectural shingles are more durable and attractive.

Here are some key facts about asphalt shingles:

Asphalt shingles are suitable for all climates, but designer shingles are particularly resistant to extreme weather conditions, including wind and hail.

Asphalt roofing is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles are made of asphalt, adhesives, fiberglass, and a granule mix on the surface.

Asphalt shingles are available in various types, including three-tab, architectural, and designer series. Three-tab shingles are the most affordable option, but they have a shorter lifespan of 20-25 years.

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are made of two or more layers of shingles, making them heavier and more durable than three-tab shingles. They have a lifespan of 30+ years and are more attractive than three-tab shingles.

Here are some key features of different types of asphalt shingles:

Asphalt shingles also come in a range of colors and styles to suit different aesthetic preferences and performance needs. They are available in styles like 3-tab, dimensional, and luxury, and cater to different performance needs.

Some asphalt shingles are even Energy Star certified, making them a more eco-friendly option. However, it's worth noting that asphalt shingles are not the most eco-friendly option, but manufacturers are redesigning shingles to be as eco-friendly as possible.

Overall, asphalt shingles are a cost-effective and visually appealing option for homeowners.

Rolled roofing is a popular choice for low-slope roofs due to its affordability and ease of installation.

It's cheap, which is a major advantage for homeowners on a budget. Rolled roofing is also easy to install, making it a convenient option for DIY projects.

Rolled roofing has a short life span, often less than 10 years, which means it may need to be replaced more frequently than other materials.

This material is not suitable for flat roofs because it's vulnerable to leaks, which can lead to costly repairs.

Rolled roofing is not a strong insulator, so it may not be the best choice for areas with extreme temperatures.

Ice and water shield is an essential component on a new roof in Southern New Jersey. It's a fiberglass reinforced leak barrier that gets installed directly onto the plywood at all eaves, valleys, roof/wall intersections, and around any protrusions like chimneys & vent pipes.

Ice and water shield protects vulnerable areas of a roof and prevents damage caused by ice damming, which occurs when snow melts from heat loss and re-freezes at the gutters, forming an ice dam that can cause major damage to a roof.

Ice and water shield is a specialized material that prevents water infiltration and ice damage on vulnerable roof areas. It's typically installed in roof valleys, around penetrations, and on low-pitched roofs.

This waterproof membrane prevents leaks and maintains the roof's integrity, thanks to its self-sealing nature that helps prevent leaks around roofing nails. It's particularly effective at minimizing the risk of leaks caused by wind-driven rain.

In regions above the snowline, building codes often require two rows of ice and water shield along the roof edges to combat ice dams and water intrusion. This is crucial for preventing damage to the roof.

Flat roofs are a common sight in many commercial and residential areas, but they come with their own set of challenges. Water leaks are a major concern with flat roofs, so a seamless barrier is essential to prevent water from penetrating.

The most common materials used for flat roofs are PVC, EPDM, and TPO. These materials are designed to withstand water and provide a durable barrier.

PVC is a single-ply membrane that has heat-welded seams, which minimizes the risk of leaks. It's flexible and durable, and has high solar reflectivity, making it a popular choice for flat roofs.

EPDM membrane, on the other hand, is the most common flat-roof membrane. It comes in large sheets, which minimizes the need for seams, but seams are glued, which can lead to leaks over time.

TPO is another common option for commercial facilities, and it comes in rolls of 10, 12, or 20 feet. Seams are welded with a hot-air gun, providing a secure and watertight seal.

Cost is an important factor when choosing a flat roof material, and PVC, EPDM, and TPO are priced between $6.00 and $15.00 per square foot.

Here are some popular brands to consider:

Wood and Shakes offer a natural and rustic aesthetic, commonly made from trees like pine, cypress, red cedar, and redwood.

Wood shingles are thin, sawn slabs, while shakes are thicker, split wedges, each providing a distinct look and texture. Properly installed and maintained, wood shingles can last 25 to 40 years.

Wood shingles and shakes can last an average of 20 to 30 years in damp conditions. They require regular maintenance to prevent weathering and decay.

Here are some key characteristics of wood shingles and shakes:

Cedar Shake is a popular choice for wood roofing, and for good reason. It's 100% sustainable and natural, making it a great option for those looking for eco-friendly materials.

Cedar Shake shingles are very durable, lasting 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance. They need periodic fire retardant treatment, especially in fire-hazardous areas like California.

One of the biggest benefits of Cedar Shake is its high curb appeal. It adds a touch of natural beauty to any home. Cedar is a renewable resource, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.

However, Cedar Shake does require some maintenance to keep it looking its best. It needs to be pressure washed every 4-5 years to prevent damage.

Here are some key facts to consider when choosing Cedar Shake:

And here are some things to be aware of:

Synthetic Slate/Shake is a game-changer for homeowners looking for a durable and cost-effective alternative to traditional slate or shake roofs.

These shingles are made from a composite of plastic and rubber, which gives them a beautiful appearance without the high installation costs of real slate. They also have an advanced ultraviolet inhibitor that reduces wear from the sun and the likelihood of cracks.

One of the biggest advantages of synthetic slate shingles is their fire- and impact-resistance, making them a great choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires or strong winds. They can last longer than traditional roofs and come with a 50-year warranty.

However, it's worth noting that these shingles may begin to curl and crack in extreme heat and cold, so they may not be the best choice for homes in very harsh climates. They're relatively new to the market, so their longevity hasn't been proven yet.

Here are some key benefits and drawbacks to consider:

Synthetic slate shingles are suitable for all climates, especially the Central U.S., and can be a great choice for homeowners looking for a durable and cost-effective alternative to traditional slate or shake roofs.

Concrete and clay tiles are a popular choice for roof replacement due to their durability and fire-resistant properties. They can withstand high temperatures without deteriorating, providing long-lasting protection.

Concrete and clay tiles are heavier than other roofing options, which may require additional structural support. This can add to the upfront cost of installation.

One of the main drawbacks of clay tiles is their higher cost compared to other roofing materials, which can be a significant consideration for budget-conscious homeowners.

Here are some key benefits of concrete and clay tiles:

Concrete tiles are made from a sand-based concrete solution and share many of the advantages and disadvantages of clay tiles.

They are long-lasting and strong, capable of withstanding intense winds, and may be somewhat cheaper than clay tiles. However, concrete is heavier and more porous, so weight and the potential for water damage may be concerns.

One sign of an overly porous tile is efflorescence, or a chalky appearance due to calcium carbonate powder on the tile surface. This can be a cosmetic issue, but it's essential to address it before it becomes a more significant problem.

To ensure the longevity of concrete tiles, it's crucial to work with an experienced installer who can properly reinforce the structure to handle the dead weight of the roofing materials. This will help prevent damage from environmental factors like wind pressure and snow.

Here are some key benefits and drawbacks of concrete tiles:

Slate is a high-end roofing material that's often used in new constructions or historic homes to preserve the original look. It's made from genuine slate or synthetic slate tiles.

Slate roofs can last anywhere from 50 to 200 years, depending on the quality and type of slate used. The thicker the slate, the better the performance.

One of the biggest drawbacks of slate roofs is their weight, which requires additional framing during installation. Some roof structures simply can't handle the extra weight.

Slate is naturally resistant to fire, rain, snow, hail, and wind, making it a good option for the Midwest and Great Plains. However, it's also very expensive, with a cost of $100+ per square foot.

Here are some key pros and cons of slate roofs:

Synthetic Materials offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional roofing materials. They can mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate or wood, making them a great option for homeowners who want a specific look without the associated drawbacks.

Synthetic slate shingles, for example, are made from a composite of plastic and rubber, and have an advanced ultraviolet inhibitor that reduces wear from the sun. They also have the highest fire- and impact-resistance of all roof materials.

Some synthetic materials are relatively new to the market, having been available for only about 20 years. This means their long-term durability has not been fully proven, but they do come with impressive warranties, such as the 50-year warranty offered by synthetic slate shingles.

Here's a comparison of some synthetic materials:

Rubber is a versatile synthetic material that can be used for roofing. It's highly rated against fire, lightning, and wind.

One of the benefits of rubber roofing is its lightweight material. This makes it easier to install and maintain.

However, rubber roofing can also have some drawbacks. The adhesives used for installation can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), affecting indoor air quality.

Rubber roofing requires specialized experience to install correctly. This is to prevent issues with ill-fitting shingles or leaks.

Solar energy is a great way to reduce your dependency on utilities, and there are several options to consider. Solar shingles are one such option that integrates solar energy absorption into the structure of the roof itself.

They look similar to a typical shingle, making them a good choice if you're concerned about glare or have a homeowners' association that doesn't allow solar panels. Solar shingles also provide a waterproof installation.

Solar shingles can cover the entire surface of your roof, producing about 95% as much solar energy as solar panels per square foot. However, they're more expensive and have a longer payback period.

If you need a new roof, solar shingles might be a good option, as their cost is comparable to installing traditional solar panels.

Synthetic underlayment is a modern evolution in roofing materials, offering greater durability, superior water resistance, and improved nail-holding capability compared to traditional felt.

Synthetic underlayment is constructed from high-strength polymers, providing exceptional performance in protecting the roof deck from moisture and other environmental factors.

It's a more reliable choice for long-term roof protection, outperforming felt in longevity and roof protection.

Synthetic underlayment's durability allows it to withstand various weather conditions, keeping your roof secure and leak-free over time.

Synthetic underlayment has lower moisture permeability, offering superior leak protection compared to felt underlayment.

Self-adhered underlayment with a sticky backing offers better waterproofing, and synthetic underlayment fits the bill with its superior water resistance.

Synthetic underlayment is a preferred option for modern roofing systems, thanks to its exceptional performance and reliability.

Synthetic underlayment provides a more reliable barrier against moisture, keeping the roof decking dry and intact, and it's a great alternative to traditional felt underlayment.