Choose the Best Roofing Material: The Top 7 Material Options

Q: How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine. Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

Q: How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

Q: Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery , you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

March 12, 2019•2 min read•

Roofing Materials

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What Is the Best Roofing Material? Pros, Cons & Costs Explained

best roofing material

No one looks forward to the dreaded time in the life of a home: roof repair or replacement. But as a homeowner, it’s a necessary investment from time to time. And unless you’re researching ahead of time, you may not be familiar with all the roofing material options available.

The material you choose can significantly impact the longevity, aesthetics, and energy efficiency of your home. In this guide, we’ll help you compare the best roofing materials for your needs.

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Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. They’re affordable, easy to install, and widely available in a range of colors. Reinforced versions with fiberglass improve durability without changing the appearance.

Best for: Most suburban homes
Average cost: $70–$120 per square
Lifespan: 20–25 years with maintenance

Clay and Concrete Tiles

If you’re looking to add texture and flair to your home, clay and concrete tiles are excellent options. Though heavy and more expensive, they’re non-combustible and long-lasting. Concrete tiles offer a slightly more economical alternative while providing energy efficiency.

Best for: Mission, Southwestern, and Mediterranean-style homes
Average cost: $300–$500 per square
Lifespan: 40–50 years

Metal Roofing

For durability and resistance to extreme weather, metal is one of the best roofing materials. It comes in panels or shingles, using materials like stainless steel, zinc, aluminum, or copper. Metal roofs are also excellent for homes in areas with frequent storms.

Best for: Contemporary and cottage homes
Average cost: $100–$800 per square
Lifespan: 40–75 years

Slate

Slate offers unmatched elegance and longevity. Available in rich colors like black, green, and purple, it’s fire-resistant and even recyclable. However, slate is heavy and expensive, requiring reinforced framing and professional installation.

Best for: European, Colonial, French chateau homes
Average cost: $600+ per square
Lifespan: 50–100 years

Wood Shingles and Shake

Wood roofing brings a timeless, rustic charm. Shingles are machine-cut for uniformity, while shakes are hand-split for a more rugged appearance. While beautiful, they require fire treatment and may not perform well in wet climates like Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Best for: Cape Cod, Craftsman, and Tudor homes
Average cost: $100–$150 per square
Lifespan: 25–30 years

Synthetic Roofing

Synthetic roofing materials made from rubber, plastic, or polymer mimic the appearance of wood and slate. They’re lightweight, often fire-resistant, and built to last. However, long-term durability is still being evaluated since these are newer to the market.

Best for: Versatile use across home styles
Average cost: $300+ per square
Lifespan: Up to 50 years

Tesla Solar Tiles

If sustainability and energy savings are priorities, consider Tesla’s solar tiles. These glass tiles blend in with standard roof materials while generating electricity for your home. They’re paired with the Tesla Powerwall, allowing your roof to serve as a clean energy generator.

Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners planning long-term stays
Cost: Premium pricing (varies by home)
Lifespan: 30-year performance guarantee

So What Is The Best Roofing Material?

The best roofing material depends on your priorities: budget, climate, style, and longevity. Asphalt is economical, slate is timeless, metal is durable, and Tesla tiles are futuristic. Each has its pros and cons.

Still not sure which roofing material is right for your Sarasota home? Contact us today and we’ll help you make a smart, long-lasting choice for your roof.

General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out.

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting.
Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling.
Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials.
Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices.
Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal.

Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water.

Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.
Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.
Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms.
Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events.
Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster.
Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below.
Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss.
Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.