Roofing Materials Guide

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most widely installed roofing material in North America, used on approximately 75% of residential roofs and remaining one of the most popular residential roofing options. They offer a versatile, affordable roof covering available in dozens of colors and several quality tiers, making them a go-to choice when you compare roofing material types. Asphalt shingles consist of a fiberglass mat base coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic-coated mineral granules, and understanding asphalt shingle cost is often the first step for homeowners evaluating roof replacement cost.

3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

Three-tab shingles are the most basic and affordable option. Each shingle is a single flat layer with three cut-out tabs that create the appearance of three separate pieces when installed. They have been the standard for decades but are gradually losing market share to architectural shingles.

• Cost: $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot installed ($350 to $550 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
• Wind Rating: Typically 60 to 70 mph
• Weight: Approximately 200 to 240 pounds per square (100 sq ft)

Pros: Lowest upfront cost, widely available, easy to install and repair, lightweight so they work on most structures without reinforcement.

Cons: Shortest lifespan of any of the shingle types, limited roofing warranty coverage, flat appearance lacks dimension, lower wind and impact resistance, and becoming harder to source as manufacturers phase them out in favor of newer roofing products.

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles

Architectural shingles, also called dimensional or laminated shingles, are the most popular roofing material in the United States today and represent one of the best roofing material values among all roof material types. They consist of two or more layers of asphalt laminated together, creating a thicker, heavier shingle with a textured, three-dimensional appearance that mimics the look of wood shakes or natural slate roof tiles.

• Cost: $4.50 to $8.00 per square foot installed ($450 to $800 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 25 to 30 years
• Wind Rating: Typically 110 to 130 mph
• Weight: Approximately 250 to 350 pounds per square

Pros: Excellent value for the cost, attractive dimensional appearance, longer warranty periods (many carry lifetime limited warranties), better wind and impact resistance than 3-tab, widely available in many colors and styles.

Cons: Heavier than 3-tab shingles though rarely requires structural reinforcement, higher initial cost than 3-tab, can still suffer algae growth in humid climates without algae-resistant formulation, limited to steep-slope applications (4:12 pitch or greater).

Designer and Luxury Shingles

Designer and luxury shingles represent the premium end of the asphalt shingle market and showcase how far shingle types have come in replicating natural materials. They are engineered to closely replicate the appearance of natural slate, cedar shakes, or European tile roofs while maintaining the ease of roof installation and affordability of asphalt. These shingles are significantly heavier and thicker than standard architectural shingles, with higher asphalt shingle cost reflecting their enhanced durability and curb appeal.

• Cost: $7.00 to $15.00+ per square foot installed ($700 to $1,500+ per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
• Wind Rating: Typically 110 to 130 mph
• Weight: Approximately 350 to 450+ pounds per square

Pros: Stunning appearance that closely replicates natural materials, longest lifespan among asphalt options, highest wind and impact ratings, substantial warranty coverage including algae resistance, significant curb appeal increase.

Cons: Highest roofing material price among asphalt shingles, heavy weight may require additional structural support, fewer roofing contractors experienced with proper installation, and some styles may require hand-sealing in certain climates.

2. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has experienced tremendous growth in the residential market over the past two decades, becoming one of the most sought-after roofing options for homeowners seeking long-term value. Once associated primarily with commercial roofing and agricultural structures, modern metal roof systems are now installed on an estimated 12% of new residential construction. Metal roofs are typically made from steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloys and are available in a wide range of profiles, colors, and finishes, with metal roofing cost often proving more economical over the full roof material lifespan than many alternatives.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam is the most popular and recognizable metal roofing profile for residential applications. The panels feature raised, interlocking seams that run vertically from ridge to eave, creating clean lines and a modern appearance. The fasteners are concealed beneath the seams, eliminating exposed penetrations and dramatically reducing the risk of leaks.

• Cost: $8.00 to $18.00 per square foot installed ($800 to $1,800 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 40 to 70 years
• Warranty: 30 to 50 years for paint finish, 50+ year panel warranty common
• Material Thickness: 24 to 29 gauge steel, 0.032 to 0.040 aluminum

Pros: Exceptional longevity and roof material durability, virtually maintenance-free, concealed fastener system eliminates leak points, available in many colors with factory-applied finishes, excellent energy efficiency with reflective coatings making them one of the top roofing solutions for energy-conscious homeowners, 100% recyclable at end of life, lightweight relative to tile and slate, handles all roof pitches including very low slopes.

Cons: Highest upfront roofing cost among common residential materials, can be noisy during heavy rain or hail without proper roof underlayment, denting is possible with softer metals like aluminum, thermal expansion requires proper fastener systems, and requires a skilled roofing contractor for best results.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Corrugated metal panels feature a wavy, undulating profile that has been used for over a century. Modern corrugated panels are typically made from galvanized steel or Galvalume and are available in both exposed-fastener and hidden-fastener configurations. They are commonly used on agricultural buildings, sheds, and rustic-style homes.

• Cost: $3.50 to $8.50 per square foot installed ($350 to $850 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 25 to 50 years
• Material Thickness: 26 to 29 gauge

Pros: Most affordable metal roofing option, strong structural profile sheds water and snow effectively, lightweight, easy to install, available in galvanized and painted finishes.

Cons: Exposed fasteners can loosen and create leak points over time, industrial appearance not ideal for all homes, paint finishes may fade faster than standing seam, limited color options compared to standing seam.

Ribbed (R-Panel) Metal Roofing

Ribbed panels, often called R-panels or 5V crimp panels, feature raised ribs spaced at regular intervals with flat pans between them. They offer a step up from corrugated panels in appearance and structural performance while remaining more affordable than standing seam systems.

• Cost: $4.00 to $10.00 per square foot installed ($400 to $1,000 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50 years

Pros: Good balance of cost and performance, stronger profile than corrugated, available in painted finishes, can be installed over existing roofing in some cases.

Cons: Most versions still use exposed fasteners, more industrial look than standing seam, limited color palette compared to premium metal options.

3. Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tile roofs are a hallmark of Mediterranean, Spanish Colonial, Mission, and Southwestern architectural styles and represent some of the most distinctive roofing options available. These heavy, durable tiles have been used for thousands of years and remain popular in warm climates across the southern United States, California, and Florida. Tile roofing offers excellent long-term value, and both materials are available in a wide range of profiles including flat, barrel, and S-tile shapes.

Clay Tiles

Natural clay tiles are formed from earthen clay and fired in a kiln at high temperatures. The firing process creates a extremely durable, colorfast product that resists fading, cracking, and moisture absorption. Clay tiles are available in traditional terracotta red, brown, and gray tones as well as glazed colors. They are lighter than concrete tiles and generally considered the premium option.

• Cost: $10.00 to $25.00 per square foot installed ($1,000 to $2,500 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 50 to 100+ years
• Weight: 600 to 1,100 pounds per square

Pros: Exceptional lifespan often exceeding 100 years, natural beauty that improves with age, virtually maintenance-free, fire-resistant and impervious to rot and insects, excellent thermal mass reduces cooling costs, available in many traditional and contemporary profiles.

Cons: Very high upfront tile roofing cost, extremely heavy requiring reinforced roof framing, brittle and can crack under foot traffic, limited color options compared to other roofing material types without glazing, requires an experienced tile roof installer, and not suitable for areas with frequent freeze-thaw cycles.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are manufactured from a mixture of Portland cement, sand, water, and pigments. They are designed to closely replicate the appearance of clay tiles, slate, and wood shakes at a lower price point. Modern manufacturing techniques have dramatically improved the appearance and durability of concrete tiles.

• Cost: $7.00 to $18.00 per square foot installed ($700 to $1,800 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 30 to 60 years
• Weight: 900 to 1,200 pounds per square

Pros: More affordable than clay while offering similar appearance, heavier so better wind resistance in some profiles, available in many colors and profiles, fire-resistant, good thermal performance, lower maintenance than natural materials.

Cons: Heaviest common roofing material requiring significant structural reinforcement, color can fade over time especially in less expensive roofing products, heavier than clay with no added structural benefit, more porous than clay requiring periodic sealing in some climates, and heavier weight increases transportation and roof installation costs.

4. Slate Roofing

Natural slate is one of the oldest and most prestigious roofing materials in the world. Quarried from natural stone deposits, slate roof tiles have been used on buildings for centuries, with many slate roofs still performing well after 150 years or more, giving slate roofing the longest roof material lifespan of any option covered in this roof material guide. Slate is prized for its natural beauty, incredible roof material durability, and the unique character that comes from being a natural stone product. Each slate tile has a slightly different color, texture, and thickness, creating a roof system with unmatched depth and visual interest.

• Cost: $15.00 to $45.00+ per square foot installed ($1,500 to $4,500+ per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 75 to 200+ years
• Weight: 800 to 1,500+ pounds per square

Pros: Unmatched lifespan exceeding all other roofing materials, completely fireproof, impervious to rot, insects, and freezing, naturally beautiful with unique character on every roof, requires virtually zero maintenance, adds significant property value and historical prestige, available in many colors including gray, green, purple, red, and black.

Cons: Extremely high material and roof replacement costs, requires a master-level roofing contractor with specific slate roofing experience, very heavy requiring reinforced structural framing, individual tiles can crack under foot traffic or falling debris, roof repair requires matching specific slate thickness and color, limited availability of qualified installers, and repair costs are significantly higher than other materials.

5. Wood Shakes and Shingles

Wood shakes and shingles offer a natural, rustic aesthetic that complements many architectural styles including Craftsman, Cape Cod, colonial, and Pacific Northwest designs. While similar in appearance, these two shingle types differ in manufacturing: shingles are machine-cut with a smooth, uniform surface, while shakes are hand-split or machine-split, resulting in a thicker, more textured face. Western red cedar is the most common wood species used, though other species like pine, cypress, and redwood are also available as specialty roofing products.

Wood Shingles

• Cost: $6.00 to $10.00 per square foot installed ($600 to $1,000 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 20 to 30 years
• Weight: 300 to 500 pounds per square

Wood Shakes

• Cost: $7.00 to $14.00 per square foot installed ($700 to $1,400 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 25 to 40 years
• Weight: 400 to 700 pounds per square

Pros: Natural beauty and warmth that no other material can replicate, good insulation properties, available in many grades and thicknesses, lightweight enough for most structures without reinforcement, environmentally friendly when sourced from sustainably managed forests, unique hand-split character in shakes.

Cons: Fire hazard without fire-retardant treatment, requires regular maintenance including cleaning and moss treatment, susceptible to rot, insect damage, and moisture damage in humid climates, can warp and split over time, insurance companies may charge higher premiums or decline coverage, not suitable for areas prone to wildfires, environmental concerns about chemical treatments for weather resistance.

6. Synthetic and Composite Roofing

Synthetic and composite roofing materials represent the newest category in residential roofing and are rapidly expanding the range of available roofing options. These roofing products are engineered to replicate the appearance of natural materials like slate, cedar shake, and clay tile while offering improved performance characteristics including lighter weight, better impact resistance, and lower maintenance requirements. They are manufactured from rubber, plastic, polymer blends, or composite materials using advanced molding and coloring techniques, providing innovative roofing solutions for homeowners who want the look of natural materials without the high roofing cost or maintenance demands.

• Cost: $7.00 to $20.00 per square foot installed ($700 to $2,000 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50+ years
• Weight: 200 to 500 pounds per square

Pros: Replicates the appearance of natural materials at lower weight, lighter weight means less structural reinforcement needed, excellent impact resistance typically rated Class 4, available in many styles and colors, low maintenance compared to natural materials, many products made from recycled materials, some products carry 50-year warranties, fire-resistant formulations available.

Cons: Relatively new product with limited long-term performance data, higher cost than asphalt shingles, appearance may not match genuine natural materials upon close inspection, quality varies significantly between manufacturers, some products may fade or discolor over time, limited number of manufacturers and contractors experienced with installation, may not be accepted by all insurance companies at the same rates as natural materials.

7. Flat and Membrane Roofing

Flat and low-slope roof systems use continuous membrane sheets rather than individual shingles or tiles to create a waterproof barrier. These systems are standard for commercial roofing but are increasingly used on residential structures with flat or very low-slope roof sections, including modern homes, additions, and porches. The three primary membrane roofing product types are TPO, EPDM, and PVC, each representing different roofing solutions for low-slope applications.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO is a single-ply reflective membrane that has become the fastest-growing commercial roofing material in North America. It is manufactured from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber, resulting in a white or light-colored membrane that provides excellent energy efficiency. TPO membranes are heat-welded at the seams, creating a monolithic waterproof barrier.

• Cost: $4.00 to $9.00 per square foot installed ($400 to $900 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 15 to 25 years
• Membrane Thickness: 45 mil, 60 mil, or 80 mil

Pros: Most affordable single-ply membrane option, excellent energy efficiency with reflective white surface, heat-welded seams create strong bonds, lightweight, recyclable at end of life, available in different thicknesses for different applications.

Cons: Shortest expected lifespan among single-ply membranes, seam quality depends heavily on installer skill and equipment, limited track record compared to EPDM, some formulation concerns with lower-quality products, puncture resistance not as strong as thicker EPDM or PVC.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane that has been the standard for commercial flat roofing for decades. It is available in black (standard) and white (cool roof) formulations and in thicknesses from 45 to 120 mil. EPDM is a time-tested product with a long performance history in the field.

• Cost: $4.50 to $10.00 per square foot installed ($450 to $1,000 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 20 to 35 years
• Membrane Thickness: 45 mil, 60 mil, 90 mil, or 120 mil

Pros: Long track record of reliable performance, excellent UV and ozone resistance, flexible in cold temperatures, easy to repair with adhesives or tape, available in many thicknesses, lighter-colored formulations available for energy efficiency, highly puncture-resistant at thicker gauges.

Cons: seams are adhesive-bonded rather than welded so can fail over time, black color absorbs heat increasing cooling costs, can be punctured by sharp objects, susceptible to damage from certain chemicals and oils, adhesive bonds can fail if improperly applied, not as environmentally friendly as TPO.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC roofing membranes are the premium option in single-ply flat roofing. Made from polyvinyl chloride with plasticizers for flexibility, PVC membranes feature heat-welded seams and are highly resistant to chemicals, grease, and fire. They are commonly used on restaurants and commercial kitchens where grease exposure is a concern, but are an excellent choice for any flat roof application.

• Cost: $6.00 to $14.00 per square foot installed ($600 to $1,400 per roofing square)
• Lifespan: 20 to 30+ years
• Membrane Thickness: 50 mil, 60 mil, 80 mil

Pros: Excellent chemical and grease resistance, inherently fire-resistant, heat-welded seams create the strongest bond, reflective white surface for energy efficiency, long lifespan, proven track record, excellent wind uplift resistance.

Cons: Most expensive single-ply option, less environmentally friendly due to PVC composition, plasticizers can migrate over time in some formulations, requires specialized welding equipment, can become brittle in extreme cold, not compatible with all rooftop equipment without protection.

Material Comparison Table

The following roof material comparison table provides a side-by-side comparison of all major roofing materials and their roofing material price ranges. Costs shown are average installed costs per roofing square (100 square feet) and will vary based on location, roof complexity, roofing contractor rates, and specific product selections.

* With specific underlayment and application methods. ** Can achieve Class A with fire-retardant treatment. *** Varies by manufacturer and product. **** Black EPDM may not qualify for top fire rating without additional measures.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Material

Selecting the best roofing material for your home requires balancing multiple factors specific to your situation, from roofing cost and roof material lifespan to aesthetics and climate. Here are the key considerations to help you choose roofing material that fits your needs.

Budget

Your budget is often the primary determining factor when you choose roofing material. For homeowners seeking the lowest initial cost, 3-tab asphalt shingles remain the most affordable option at $350 to $550 per roofing square installed, making asphalt shingle cost the benchmark for comparison. Architectural shingles offer significantly better performance for a moderate price increase, making them the best value for most homeowners. Premium materials like slate, clay tile, and standing seam metal have much higher upfront roofing cost but can be more economical over their longer roof material lifespan. When evaluating roof replacement cost, calculate the annualized cost by dividing total installed cost by expected lifespan. A $600 metal roof lasting 50 years costs $12 per year per square, while a $400 asphalt roof lasting 25 years costs $16 per year per square, illustrating how metal roofing cost can be lower over time despite a higher initial investment.

Climate

Local climate plays a major role in determining which roofing material will perform best in your area.

• Hot, sunny climates: Reflective metal roofing, light-colored tile, or cool roof rated shingles will minimize heat absorption and reduce cooling costs. TPO and white EPDM membranes are excellent for flat roofs in these regions.
• Cold, snowy climates: Metal roofing sheds snow effectively and prevents ice dams. Architectural shingles with ice and water shield underlayment are also effective. Avoid flat or very low-slope roofs in heavy snow areas due to snow load concerns.
• High wind and hurricane zones: Standing seam metal roofing with hidden fasteners provides the best wind resistance. Premium architectural shingles rated for 130+ mph winds are also suitable. Avoid 3-tab shingles in high-wind areas.
• Hail-prone areas: Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles, metal roofing, and synthetic roofing materials offer the best hail resistance. Metal roofing may qualify for insurance discounts in hail-prone regions.
• Coastal and salt air environments: Aluminum metal roofing resists salt corrosion better than steel. Clay and concrete tiles also perform well in coastal environments. Avoid bare steel or galvanized metal without additional protection.
• Wildfire-prone areas: Choose Class A fire-rated materials including metal, tile, slate, or fire-treated asphalt shingles. Avoid untreated wood roofing in wildfire zones.
• Freeze-thaw climates: Avoid clay tile and some concrete tile products that may crack from water expansion during freezing. Metal and asphalt shingles handle freeze-thaw cycles well.

Roof Pitch Requirements

Every roofing material has a minimum roof pitch at which it can be safely and effectively installed. Installing a material below its minimum pitch rating can result in leaks, wind damage, and premature failure.

• Steep slope (4:12 and greater): All roofing materials are suitable at this pitch range. This is the standard for most residential construction.
• Moderate slope (3:12 to 3.5:12): Most materials can be used with proper underlayment and installation techniques, but options become more limited. Some asphalt shingles require specific underlayment at these pitches.
• Low slope (1:12 to 2.5:12): Only membrane roofing (TPO, EPDM, PVC) and standing seam metal roofing are recommended. Some modified bitumen systems also work at these pitches.
• Flat (less than 1:12): Only fully-adhered or mechanically-attached membrane systems are suitable. Standing seam metal can work in very specific configurations with sealed seams.

Aesthetics

Your roofing material significantly impacts your home's curb appeal and overall appearance. Consider the architectural style of your home, your neighborhood character, and any HOA restrictions.

• Traditional and colonial styles: Architectural shingles, cedar shakes, or slate complement these classic designs.
• Mediterranean, Spanish, and Mission styles: Clay tile or concrete tile are the traditional choice. Barrel and S-tile profiles are most appropriate.
• Modern and contemporary styles: Standing seam metal in dark or metallic finishes, flat concrete tile, or synthetic slate work well with clean lines.
• Craftsman and bungalow styles: Wood shakes or shingles, architectural shingles in earth tones, or slate are ideal choices.
• Ranch and mid-century styles: Wide variety of options work, with metal, tile, and architectural shingles all being popular choices.

Weight and Structural Load Considerations

The weight of your roofing material is a critical structural consideration, especially for re-roofing projects where existing framing may not have been designed for heavier materials.

• Lightweight materials (under 500 lbs per square): Metal roofing, asphalt shingles, and synthetic roofing can typically be installed on standard residential framing as part of a complete roof system without reinforcement.
• Medium weight (500 to 1,000 lbs per square): Wood shakes and lighter clay tiles may require structural evaluation but can often be installed on standard framing.
• Heavyweight materials (over 1,000 lbs per square): Clay tile, concrete tile, and natural slate often require reinforced or upgraded structural framing. Always have a structural engineer evaluate existing framing before switching to a heavy roofing material.

Never install a heavy roofing material over existing lighter materials without structural verification. The additional dead load can cause structural failure, sagging, and safety hazards.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

Energy-efficient roofing can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs, especially in climates with extreme temperatures. The energy efficiency of roofing materials and roofing products is measured using several standardized rating systems, and selecting the right energy-saving roofing solutions can lower your annual energy bills.

Cool Roof Ratings

The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) provides standardized ratings for roofing products based on two key measurements:

• Solar Reflectance (SR): The fraction of solar energy reflected by the roof surface. A higher number means more solar energy is reflected away from the building. An SR of 0.70 means 70% of solar energy is reflected. White and light-colored materials typically have the highest reflectance values.
• Thermal Emittance (TE): The ability of the roof surface to radiate absorbed heat. A higher number means the roof releases absorbed heat more efficiently. Most roofing materials have emittance values above 0.80.
• Solar Reflectance Index (SRI): A composite score combining reflectance and emittance into a single value from 0 to 100. Higher SRI values indicate cooler roof surfaces. The LEED certification program requires an SRI of 78 or higher for steep-slope roofs and 82 or higher for low-slope roofs.

Energy Efficiency by Material

Many states and utilities offer tax credits, rebates, or incentives for installing cool roof products. Check with your local energy utility and state energy office for available programs. Installing a cool roof in a cooling-dominated climate can reduce air conditioning costs by 10 to 30%, making energy-efficient roofing products an excellent long-term roofing solution.

Warranty Considerations

Understanding roofing warranty options is essential for protecting your investment. Most roofing warranty plans fall into two categories: manufacturer material warranties and contractor workmanship warranties. Some manufacturers also offer roof system or extended warranties that cover both materials and workmanship when installed by certified roofing contractors, providing comprehensive protection for your roof replacement.

Manufacturer Material Warranties

Material warranties cover defects in the roofing product itself. Coverage varies dramatically by material type:

• Asphalt shingles: Standard warranties range from 20 to 30 years for architectural shingles, with many premium products carrying lifetime limited warranties. Be aware that lifetime warranties typically have prorated terms where coverage decreases significantly after the first 10 to 15 years. Wind coverage is often separate and may require specific installation methods.
• Metal roofing: Paint finish warranties typically range from 30 to 50 years and cover chalking, fading, and peeling. Panel perforation warranties may last 40 years or more. Some manufacturers offer through-penetration warranties on concealed fastener systems.
• Tile roofing: Clay and concrete tile manufacturers commonly offer 50-year to lifetime limited warranties. Some clay tile manufacturers offer true lifetime warranties with no proration.
• Slate roofing: Natural slate warranties vary but typically range from 75 to 100+ years, reflecting the material's exceptional durability.
• Synthetic/composite: Warranties range from 30 to 50 years, with some premium products offering lifetime limited warranties.
• Membrane roofing: TPO, EPDM, and PVC membranes typically carry 15 to 30-year manufacturer warranties. Some premium membranes offer 30-year or longer coverage.

Workmanship Warranties

Workmanship warranties cover roof installation defects and are provided by the roofing contractor. These typically range from 2 to 10 years for standard contractors, though some premium roofing contractors offer 15 to 25-year workmanship warranties. The quality and enforceability of a workmanship warranty depends entirely on the contractor's reputation, financial stability, and willingness to stand behind their roof repair and replacement work.

System and Extended Warranties

Many major manufacturers offer enhanced warranty programs when their products are installed by factory-certified or preferred contractors. These roof system warranties cover the complete roofing assembly including roof underlayment, roof flashing, ventilation, and accessories in addition to the shingles or panels. System warranties often provide non-prorated coverage for a longer initial period and may include labor coverage for tear-off and roof replacement. They are typically the best warranty value available but require installation by an authorized roofing contractor.

Key Warranty Exclusions to Watch For

• Most warranties do not cover damage from hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe weather events beyond the stated wind rating
• Foot traffic damage is rarely covered under any warranty
• Improper maintenance or failure to perform required maintenance voids most warranties
• Unauthorized modifications, additions, or repairs by non-approved contractors typically void manufacturer warranties
• Consequential damages such as interior water damage or lost income are almost never covered
• Most asphalt shingle warranties are non-transferable or have reduced transferability to subsequent homeowners

Before making your final decision, read the complete warranty document for any roofing material you are considering. Pay close attention to what is covered, what is excluded, whether coverage is prorated, and what actions might void the warranty. A roofing material with a longer warranty is not always the better choice if the warranty terms are restrictive or if the manufacturer's claim process is burdensome.