What Type of Roof Is Best for Your Budget and Style

Choosing the right roof for your budget and style can be overwhelming, but understanding your options can make all the difference. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for their affordability, with prices ranging from $3 to $12 per square foot.

For those looking to splurge, metal roofs offer durability and a sleek appearance, but come with a higher price tag, typically costing between $7 and $24 per square foot. Slate roofs, on the other hand, are a premium option that can last up to 200 years, but may not be feasible for everyone's budget.

Ultimately, your budget will play a significant role in determining which type of roof is best for you.

There are several types of roofs to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Gable roofs are one of the most common types, known for their triangular shape and ease of water and snow shedding.

Gable roofs are also versatile, allowing for various materials such as asphalt shingles, slate, concrete tiles, and metal to be used for roofing.

Some roofs, like flat roofs, have a slight incline to prevent water from collecting on the top. They're often used on commercial buildings due to their simplicity and practicality.

Flat roofs can experience significant heat loss if not properly insulated, with up to 25% of thermal transmission occurring through the roof in uninsulated homes. Adding roof insulation is a smart upgrade for flat roofs.

Here are some common types of roofs, along with their costs and lifespans:

The lifespan of a roof can vary depending on the material and maintenance. Some roofs, like those made of clay tiles, can last for 50-100 years, while others may need to be replaced sooner.

The A-Frame roof is a simple and less expensive roof design that serves as both the roof and two of the four exterior walls. It's a clever way to build, and it's been around for centuries.

A-frame roofs can be found around the world, including Europe, North America, China, and the South Pacific islands, such as the Maori community meeting house called marae. They're a popular choice for many reasons.

One of the benefits of an A-frame roof is that it's easy to build and maintain. It's also a great option for areas with high winds and snow, as the steeply-angled roof allows snow to slide off easily. The A-frame roof is a classic design that's stood the test of time.

Barrel roofs are a popular choice for factories and industrial buildings that cover large sections of land. They can be made of metal or traditional asphalt shingles.

Barrel-vaulted roofs have a curved, semi-cylindrical appearance that can span long distances. This design allows for maximum flexibility in building design.

A barrel vault is the simplest type of vaulted roof, with a curved, semi-circular cross-section. This shape enables barrel roofs to cover longer, rectangular buildings.

Barrel-vaulted ceilings can be beneficial in allowing the maximum amount of light into a building. This is especially true when windows are installed along a building's roof.

Box gable roofs are distinguishable by their triangular extensions at each face of the house, with the roof boxed at the end. They resemble a regular gable roof, but the triangular extensions are closed off instead of left open.

Box gable roofs can be covered with almost any roofing material, such as asphalt shingles, concrete tiles, cedar shakes, and metal panels. This flexibility makes them a popular choice for many homeowners.

They can be used in common architectural styles, particularly American Colonial, Cottage, and Craftsman homes. These styles often feature a more traditional and charming look.

Box gable roofs have a more pronounced triangular shape than regular gable roofs. This unique shape can add visual interest to a house and make it stand out.

They are a great option for homeowners who want a classic look without the high maintenance of other roofing types.

A skillion roof is a modern and stylish choice for any building. It's characterized by a single flat surface with a steep pitch.

In many cases, skillion roofs can come in multiple planes, such as the butterfly roof, which has an inverted V shape. This variation is a great example of how skillion roofs can be versatile.

Skillion roofs are perfect for buildings in rainy and snowy regions, as their steep slope allows water and snow to shed quickly. This makes them a great choice for homes in areas with harsh weather conditions.

The modern aesthetic of skillion roofs makes them a popular choice among homeowners. They can add a sleek and contemporary touch to any building design.

Clerestory roofs are a great way to bring in natural light, especially in rooms with limited windows.

This type of roof typically has two sloping sides joined by a short, vertical wall, with the slope falling outward.

The peak of a clerestory roof is usually near the middle of the roof, and its most distinctive feature is the clerestory – a row of horizontal windows that let in plenty of sunlight.

Clerestory roofs can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical, and they can resemble a skillion roof or have a hipped or gable design.

Clerestories have been used in architecture for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt.

They're a defining characteristic of Gothic cathedrals, and have also become a staple of Craftsman and Ranch-style homes.

By letting in sunlight, clerestory roofs can keep rooms well-lit even during the winter months.

Combination roofs are, quite literally, a blend of various roofing styles based on the building's theme and environment. There is no limit on how many types this roof can incorporate or which ones can be combined.

For instance, it could be multiple gable roofs together with a hip roof over the front porch or a hip roof paired with a clerestory roof for a distinct look. Combination roofs are well-suited to modern and contemporary homes.

However, the biggest risk of combining different roofing styles is creating more valleys, which can lead to leak-prone areas. This roof may use more material and labor than other roof types.

Curved roofs are a beautiful and functional choice for buildings. They can be used as an alternative to flat roofing systems and are often attached to a taller exterior wall.

A curved roof can add value to architectural interest and allow for water runoff. It can be used for various home features, such as an addition or wing, an arched entrance, or an entire building.

Curved roofs were first seen in the 1920s as covering for barn sheds, which allowed farmers to maximize hay storage in their barn lofts. This design became popular in the Midwest.

Curved roofs called Quonset huts were even adopted during World War II to house barracks, medical facilities, mess halls, and more. This shows their practical application in different settings.

Flexible metal materials are often required for curved roofs due to their natural bent shape.

Dormer windows can make a big difference in the livability of an attic space, which would otherwise be dark and cramped.

A dormer roof is essentially the roof that covers a windowed structure projecting from a sloping roof, often referred to as a dormer.

Dormers can be designed in various forms, including gable dormer, hip roof dormer, flat roof dormer, and wall dormer.

In most cases, the materials used on a dormer roof are the same as those used on the main roof.

Dormers can greatly enhance a house's aesthetic appeal, often giving it a unique and eye-catching look.

The Dutch Gable roof is a unique combination of a hip roof and a gable roof, providing a spacious attic area and added durability.

It's essentially two roofs in one, with a hip roof serving as the base and a smaller gable roof on top. This design increases attic space, but also makes it more complicated to brace the structure for storms and wind uplift.

The hip structure provides more durability and strength, resulting in better weather resistance for the entire roofing system. This is especially useful in areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

A similar structure can be found in East Asian hip-and-gable roofs, particularly in Chinese and Japanese Buddhist temples.

The Dutch Gable roof is a great option for homeowners who want a spacious attic area without sacrificing durability.

Flat roofs are not exactly flat – they have a slight incline to prevent water from collecting on top. This slight incline is crucial, as the National Roofing Contractors Association considers a roof with a slope of 3-in-12 or less a flat roof.

Flat roofs are mainly used on commercial buildings due to their simplicity and practicality. Many contemporary homes now use flat roof styles, however.

Commercial establishments that use their roofs for restaurants or additional tenant space may use materials more suited for foot traffic. EPDM rubber is a great example of a material that can handle foot traffic.

Flat roofs can experience significant heat loss, especially if not properly insulated. Up to 25% of thermal transmission can occur through the roof in uninsulated homes.

Adding roof insulation is a smart upgrade for flat roofs, and it's crucial for maintaining energy efficiency and comfort.

Hexagonal roofs are a popular choice for pavilions, cabanas, and gazebos. They can be covered with a variety of materials, but asphalt shingles and clay tiles are the most common options.

One of the advantages of hexagonal roofs is their unique shape, which can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor structure.

M-Shaped roofs are a type of double gable roof that rest on two bearing walls with two sloped sides that meet at the center, forming an “M” shape.

This unique design allows for a central gutter system that runs between the two pitches, preventing snow and water from building up during the winter.

Commonly used in American homes, M-Shaped roofs can be covered with most materials available on the market, including asphalt shingles, metal, and tiles.

However, they can still be prone to leaks, even with specialized flashing and a gutter system in the valleys.

Mansard roofs have four sides, making them similar to hip roofs, but with a unique twist.

The lower slope of a mansard roof is much steeper than the upper slope, and all sides can be flat or curved.

This distinctive French aesthetic is thanks to Francois Mansart, who lent his name to the style in the French Baroque period.

Mansard roofs can be used as additional floor space, known as a garret, and can be punctuated with dormers.

Copper and zinc metals complement the unique look of mansard roofs.

The pyramid roof is a unique and striking design. It takes the shape of a pyramid and is constructed on top of a square or rectangular base.

This type of roof features four triangular sides, similar to a standard hip roof. But instead of forming a ridge at the center, the sides of a pyramid hip roof converge at a single point.

Its distinctive shape gives the pyramid roof a strong, architectural presence.

Sawtooth roofs are commonly used on large commercial and industrial buildings. They can also be seen in many modern houses today.

Sawtooth roofs have numerous parallel planes that resemble a saw's teeth. This unique design allows for plenty of natural light to pass through, thanks to windows installed in the vertical spaces of the roof.

Sawtooth roofs can be made from steel, wood, or concrete, depending on the building's architectural style.

Shed roofs are a popular choice for contemporary homes because they offer more interior space than traditional gable and hip roofs.

A single slope is characteristic of shed roofs, which incline at a certain angle. This design makes them ideal for structures that need to be compact.

Rubber skins and roofing membranes are perfect for shed roofs due to their ability to handle the steep incline. They provide a reliable and durable option for property owners.

Standing seam materials can give shed roofs a more streamlined look, making them a great choice for those who want a sleek appearance.

When choosing a roof type, it's essential to consider the costs and lifespan of each material. Asphalt Shingles are a popular choice, but they have a relatively short lifespan of 20-30 years and can cost between $2.08-$3.50 per square foot.

Asphalt Shingles are a cost-effective option, but they may need to be replaced sooner rather than later. Built-up Roofing (BUR) is another option for flat roofs, but it's relatively expensive, costing $3.42-$4.90 per square foot, and has a lifespan of 15-30 years.

Built-up Roofing (BUR) is made from multiple layers of asphalt, ply sheets, and aggregate, which provides great waterproofing qualities. However, it has a long installation process and requires specialty knowledge for proper installation.

Here's a comparison of common roof types:

Ultimately, the choice of roof type will depend on your budget, the climate and weather conditions in your area, and the style of your home.

Solar options are a great way to generate energy while maintaining your home's aesthetic appeal. Solar roofing is a great option for homeowners who want to maintain their home's traditional look while generating energy.

It costs between $16.10 and $20.85 per square foot to install solar roofing, and it's available from reputable solar companies.

Solar shingles are another option that integrates solar energy absorption into the structure of the roof itself. They look similar to regular shingles and provide a waterproof installation.

However, solar shingles are more expensive and have a longer payback period compared to traditional solar panels. They also don't collect as much energy per square foot, but can cover the entire surface of the roof.

Here are some key pros and cons of solar roofing to consider:

Rolled roofing is a cost-effective option that's easy to install, making it a popular choice for low-slope roofs.

It's a roll of mineral-coated material, which is cheap compared to other roofing materials.

Rolled roofing has a short lifespan, often lasting less than 10 years.

It's not suitable for flat roofs because it's prone to leaks.

It's also not a strong insulator, which can be a drawback in certain climates.

Asphalt shingles are the most common material for residential roofs, covering roughly 80% of homes in the United States.

Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable and common roofing materials, costing $2.08–$3.56 per square foot. They're also a healthy balance of cost and quality, according to Evan Greene, Sales Manager of NE Exteriors for the New England Branch of Long Home Products.

The lifespan of asphalt roofs typically ranges from 20–30 years, although some can last up to 10 years. They come in a range of styles, from basic three-tab shingles to high-quality architectural shingles.

Here's a quick comparison of common roof types:

Some roofing materials require more maintenance than others, which can affect their lifespan.

Asphalt is the most common material for residential roofs, covering roughly 80% of homes in the United States. It's relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass sandwiched between asphalt and ceramic granules, providing strength, waterproofing, and UV protection. They come in sheets that are layered on a roof to give the illusion of more expensive single shingles.

The price of asphalt shingles varies, ranging from $75 to $350 per square, depending on the type and quality. For example, three-tab shingles are the cheapest and thinnest, while multilayered architectural shingles are the most expensive and thickest.

Asphalt shingles can last up to 10 years and offer a range of styles, from basic three-tab shingles to high-quality architectural shingles. However, they have a shorter life span compared to other materials, and dark asphalt shingles are not energy-efficient.

Here are some common types of asphalt shingles:

The cost of asphalt shingles can range from $2.08 to $3.56 per square foot, depending on the material and quality.

Composite roofing material is a cost-effective alternative to real slate or wood, priced between $310 to $500 per square.

It's made of a variety of compositions, including plastic/polymer, clay, rubber, and asphalt, which can make it slippery, especially in snowy climates.

You may need to install snow guards to prevent sheets of ice from sliding down and injuring someone.

Composite shingles can also fade or crack under impact, so be aware of these potential drawbacks.

Most roofing contractors can install composite roofing due to its manufactured design with a nailing strip.

The warranties on composite roofing are generally comparable to those for asphalt shingles, lasting anywhere from 20 to 50 years.

Metal roofing is a great option for those looking for durability and low maintenance. Metal roofing has a life expectancy of 30-50 years, making it a worthwhile investment.

Metal roofing comes in many styles and materials, including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Steel is the most common type, and it's often coated with zinc or a zinc-aluminum blend to protect against corrosion.

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

Metal roofing can be expensive, with costs ranging from $9 to $14.60 per square foot. However, it's a great choice for those looking to lower their utility costs, as it reflects sunlight and keeps your home cooler in the summer.

Copper metal roofing is especially expensive, but it develops a beautiful greenish patina over time that some people find attractive. Metal roofing can be noisy during a rainstorm, but options with a textured surface can help mask small dents and dings.

Metal roofing is fully recyclable, which is a great perk. Only a small percentage of asphalt shingles are recycled, so metal roofing is a more sustainable choice.

Concrete tiles are a popular choice for roofing due to their durability and energy efficiency. They're made from a sand-based concrete solution and can withstand intense winds.

Concrete tiles have a long lifespan, typically lasting around 50 years. They also have great thermal properties, slowly absorbing and emitting heat to help increase energy efficiency and save on electricity bills.

The cost of concrete tiles can range from $5.16 to $8.60 per square foot, which is relatively expensive. However, they can offer a great return on investment (ROI) and add property value.

One thing to keep in mind is that concrete tiles require regular maintenance to ensure optimum performance. If not installed or maintained properly, they can leave the underlayment of your roof susceptible to water damage.

Here's a comparison of the costs and lifespans of different roofing materials:

Overall, concrete tiles are a solid choice for those looking for a durable and energy-efficient roofing option.

Wood is a popular choice for roofing, and for good reason. It's naturally insulating, lowering heating and cooling costs, and can bring a touch of rustic charm to your home.

Wood roofing comes in two main types: shingles and shakes. Shingles are machine-cut and smooth, while shakes are hand-split or saw-cut and ridged. Cedar is a popular choice for its unique look and durability.

A 3,000 square-foot, cedar-shingle roof can cost from $12,380 to $22,360, while a cedar shake roof can cost anywhere from $18,000 to $28,500. Wood shingles and shakes can also be made from spruce, redwood, pine, or other coniferous trees, with prices ranging from $6.53 to $9.90 per square foot.

One thing to keep in mind is that wood roofing can be prone to wood-loving insect infestations and susceptible to fire damage. In fact, a wood roof needs a component system, including fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and an underlying asphalt cap sheet, to achieve the highest fire rating.

Here are some key pros and cons of wood roofing:

Atlas Roofing makes all three types of asphalt shingles, and its more premium lines incorporate Scotchgard to resist mold and mildew.

CertainTeed makes a wide range of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and faux slate.

GAF is one of the only brands to sell its products at home centers, including Home Depot and Lowe’s, making it a convenient option for many homeowners.

Iko, based in Canada, offers three types of residential asphalt shingles: traditional three-tab, architectural laminate, and premium designer shingles that mimic slate and cedar shake.

Interlock roofing specializes in metal roofing, offering options primarily made from aluminum and steel.

Owens Corning offers a lifetime warranty on certain lines, provided you use one of its licensed installers.

Tamko roofing primarily makes asphalt shingles for residential projects, but the quality can vary depending on the specific line.

Green roofs are a relatively new trend in the United States, but they're gaining popularity due to their numerous benefits. They're made from plants and other vegetation, which provides excellent insulation.

The cost of green roofs can be high, ranging from $10 to $28 per square foot. However, the savings on your electricity bill can offset the initial costs.

Green roofs offer an eco-friendly roofing system with a unique construction featuring a waterproof membrane, root barrier drainage system, and a layer of soil and living vegetation. They can offset the effect of heat islands, a phenomenon that happens when buildings absorb and release heat without enough plant life around to cool the air.

Green roofs can also insulate the home, leading to a prolonged life of HVAC systems, and contribute to improved stormwater management. However, they can be pricey and demand more maintenance to function well.

Some of the benefits of green roofs include:

Solar roofing is a great option for homeowners who want to maintain their home's aesthetics while generating energy. It costs $16.10–$20.85 per square foot and is available from reputable solar companies.

Solar roofing is energy-generating and eco-friendly, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. It's also a great alternative to traditional solar panels, offering a more streamlined look.

One of the benefits of solar roofing is that it won't break if stepped on, unlike traditional solar panels. This makes it a great option for homes with high foot traffic.

Solar shingles are another option for homeowners who want to integrate solar energy into their roof. They look similar to traditional shingles and provide a waterproof installation.

Solar shingles can cover the entire surface of a roof, making them a great option for homes with a large roof area. However, they don't collect as much energy per square foot as traditional solar panels.

Here are the pros and cons of solar roofing:

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material, covering around 80% of homes in the United States. They're also one of the most affordable options, costing between $2.08 and $3.56 per square foot.

Asphalt shingles can be made from various materials, including fiberglass and recycled composite materials. The higher-priced materials offer longer durability, but even the basic three-tab shingles can last up to 10 years.

Composite roofing shingles are another popular option, offering a range of styles and colors that mimic real slate or wood. They're also relatively lightweight, weighing about the same as asphalt shingles, and can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, has a life expectancy of 30-50 years and is known for its durability and energy efficiency. It's also fully recyclable, making it a great eco-friendly option.

Here's a comparison of the costs and lifespan of different roofing materials:

Keep in mind that the lifespan of your roof can vary depending on how well you maintain it, so be sure to consider the maintenance requirements of each material when making your decision.

Membrane roofing is a functional choice for commercial structures, but it's not as common in residential areas.

It uses durable ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), a type of synthetic rubber, or thermoplastic sheets to create a watertight barrier.

Membrane roofs are often used on low-slope or flat roof areas, and can also be a layer underneath a green roof.

Black thermoplastic sheets can hold heat, while white ones may show dirt or discoloration easily.

Membrane roofing can be damaged due to shrinkage or punctures, and it's prone to leaking if it's not installed correctly.

Rubber roofing is a great option for those looking for a fire-resistant and lightweight material. EPDM, a type of synthetic rubber, is highly rated against fire, lightning, and wind.

One thing to consider with rubber roofing is the potential for unpleasant fumes from the adhesives used during installation. These volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can affect indoor air quality.

Rubber shingles made from EPDM are a popular choice for roofing, but they may require specialized experience to install correctly. This is because poorly installed shingles can lead to leaks and other issues.

EPDM rubber shingles can be prone to leaking if not installed properly, so it's essential to find a reliable and experienced installer.

Asphalt shingles remain the most common type of residential roofing purchased in the U.S., with small niche segments emerging.

Metal roofs are expected to grow in popularity due to their inherent advantages, including resistance to leaks and wind uplift, and durability against the elements.

Historically high prices for roofing installations could continue to rise in the next year or so, largely due to continued high demand and a tight labor market.

Contractors face a challenge in finding qualified workers, which may extend lead times for roof construction and replacement.

Major roofing manufacturers have introduced photovoltaic roofing shingles, including GAF's Timberline model and CertainTeed's Solstice shingle.

Homeowners who retrofit their roofs with solar panels or solar roofing tiles can get a federal tax credit of 30 percent of the project cost, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

A lighter-colored roof can reduce the energy and cost needed to cool your home by up to 15 percent, making "cool roofs" a viable option for sustainability.