 |
ROOF
TYPE |
ADVANTAGES |
DISADVANTAGES |
|
 |

Composition (Shingles) |
|
- inexpensive
- many colors, types, and manufacturers
- suitable for most residential applications
- easy to repair
|
|
- relatively short life-span (15–30 years)
- scars easily when hot
- subject to mildew and moss
- environmentally unfriendly
|
|

Wood
|
|
- natural look weathering to a soft grey
- blends in with the environment
- easy to repair or replace
- Long lasting if maintained (30–50 years)
|
|
- expensive
- high maintenance
- tends to rot, split, mold, and mildew
- poor fire rating unless treated
|
|

Metal (steel, aluminum, copper) |
|
- available in different looks including cedar shingles
or slate as well as colors
- light weight
- durable
- long life span (up to 50+ years)
- low maintenance
- can be installed over existing roofs
- excellent performance in high wind, hail and rain
- environmentally friendly
|
|
- may be difficult to install
- can be expensive
- may need periodic painting
|
|

Tile (concrete, clay)
|
|
- non-combustible
- many colors and styles
- attractive
- fireproof
- easy to maintain
- extremely durable when maintained
|
|
- expensive
- heavy
- used primarily in new buildings because of weight
and structural requirements
- repairs can be tricky
|
|

Slate
|
|
- beautiful, distinctive appearance
- fireproof
- long life span
|
|
- very expensive
- requires specialized installation
- heavy
- fragile
- high maintenance
|
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