The most popular type of shingles in the US are asphalt roofing shingles. Over large parts of the country these are the standard. However there are a lot of other options you should consider before making this important decision. Here are a few:

Asphalt shingles may still be one of the most common types of roofing, but that doesn’t mean they’re the best option. There are plenty of other options available and, though some may cost a lot more to install, they’re going to last a lot longer, as well. Plus, they can create a historical or unique look and may provide other benefits that the standard, everyday roof doesn’t offer.

Wood Shingles

Wooding roofing has been around for hundreds of years, so it offers a more traditional or historical look. The roof can be made with machine-cut shingles for a uniform look or hand-split shakes for a unique look, and the shingles can be made from different types of wood to help the roof last longer. They are durable, but because they’re made from wood, they may need to be replaced sooner than expected. Still, for the perfect roof for a historical home or something that looks a little more traditional, wood shingles will be an amazing option.

Composite Shingles

Many people have heard about composite decks, where the deck is made from a poly-based product instead of wood. Roofs can be made from this composite material, as well, and the shingles can be made to look like wood, slate, or tile roofing. Composite shingles are resistant to fading, lighter than other options, and fire safe. They will last far longer than other types of roofing, so this can be a fantastic way to save money in the long run.

Metal Roofing

Another option that has been around for years is a metal roof. In the past, the roof was made from corrugated panels, which didn’t really look great on most homes. However, there are now a ton of options available that look a lot better, but are still an inexpensive yet durable option for the roof. Different metals can be used, as well, depending on whether the homeowner wants a patina to appear over time or a long-lasting color for the roof. Along with different styles, metal roofing may be available in different colors to better complement the house.

Clay Tiles

A more expensive option, clay tiles are also one of the most durable options for roofing today. In some cases, they can last for more than a hundred years. Today, to save money, these tiles can be made with concrete instead of clay. When they are created, whether it’s clay or concrete, they’re designed to lock together to create the roof. It is important to make sure the sub-roof can handle the weight before opting for clay tiles.

A Green Roof

An option that’s growing in popularity in many areas is a green roof. These roofs consist of several layers to support the soil and vegetation above the building and will need waterproofing to help protect the roof below the vegetation. Once installed, almost anything can be grown on a green roof as long as there’s enough support. If the roof is easy to access, it may be used for a vegetable garden. It is important to check into the price, as it varies considerably from building to building.

Solar Shingles

Most buildings that use solar power have roofing then solar panels installed on top. Instead, it’s possible to purchase solar shingles that work as the roof and a way to obtain power for the building. The technology for this has come very far in recent years, so there are more effective options that don’t require specialized crews to install. This is the only type of roofing material that can offer a financial return since it can be used to power the building and save on energy costs.

Slate Roofing

Another option that is very durable is a slate roof. Made from dense slate tiles, this is a type of roof that can be expensive to install. However, it’s going to provide an amazing look for the building and, due to its durability, isn’t going to need to be replaced again anytime soon. In fact, slate tends to outlive most other types of roofing. With plenty of colors available and low maintenance, this may be an excellent option for any building.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a new roof for your home, take some time to consider all of the options. Just because the roof is made from asphalt shingles now doesn’t mean that’s what you have to use in the future. It’s possible to choose something more durable, better looking, and that’s going to last for many years.