The Pros And Cons Of Different Roof Installation Materials.

So, you’re staring at your roof, or maybe just thinking about it, and that little voice in your head is whispering, “What in the world is this thing made of, and is it the right choice?” We get it. Choosing roofing material feels like a monumental decision. It’s the hat your house wears every single day, battling everything our lovely Columbus weather can throw at it.

Well, let’s talk it out. We’ve seen it all at Roofing Pros—from standard asphalt shingles to stunning metal roofs and everything in between. We’re going to walk through the big players in the roof installation game, their pros, their cons, and a few honest opinions from the front lines. No corporate fluff, just a straight-talk guide to help you make the best choice for your home.

The Reliable Workhorse: Asphalt Shingles

Let’s start with the rock star, the top dog, the one you see on nearly every other house in the neighborhood: asphalt shingles. These guys are popular for a reason, and it’s not just because they’re the most affordable option upfront.

Why We All Love Them (And Why We Sometimes Don’t)

Asphalt shingles are the Swiss Army knife of roofing—versatile, dependable, and they get the job done without a huge fuss. They come in two main flavors: the basic 3-tab and the more premium architectural (or dimensional) shingles. The architectural ones are our go-to recommendation because they look better and last longer.

The Upside:

• Cost-Effective: They offer the most accessible price point for both materials and labor, making them a fantastic choice for homeowners watching their budget.
• Easy Installation: Just about any quality roofer can install these quickly and correctly, which keeps labor costs down.
• Versatility: They come in a ton of colors and styles to match just about any home’s aesthetic.

The Downside:

• Shorter Lifespan: Even the best asphalt shingles typically last 20-30 years. That’s a lot less than some other materials.
• Vulnerability: They can be susceptible to storm damage, especially high winds and hail. We’ve done countless roof repair jobs in Columbus after a big storm on asphalt shingle roofs.
• Less Eco-Friendly: They aren’t the most sustainable option, as they end up in landfills after their lifespan.

IMO, you can’t go wrong with architectural shingles for a great balance of looks, performance, and cost. But if you’re looking for a “forever roof,” you might want to keep reading.

The Long-Lived Performer: Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has shed its old barn-side image and is now a seriously stylish and durable option. When people search for a “top-rated” and long-lasting material, this is often what they land on.

Is the Hype Real? Absolutely.

We’ve installed metal roofs on everything from classic homes to modern commercial roofing projects, and their performance is impressive. They’re like the energizer bunny of roofs—they just keep going.

The Upside:

• Durability King: A properly installed metal roof can last 40-70 years. It laughs in the face of wind damage and is highly resistant to fire and mildew.
• Weather Warrior: Its smooth surface sheds snow and rain effortlessly. This, in turn, can help reduce issues with your gutters, though you should still keep up with gutter repair to manage the heavy flow.
• Energy Efficient: Metal reflects solar radiant heat, which can lower your cooling costs in the summer. Pretty cool, right?

The Downside:

• Higher Initial Cost: The price tag is significantly higher than asphalt. Think of it as a long-term investment.
• Noise Factor: Some folks worry about noise during rainstorms, but with a solid deck and proper insulation, it’s really not an issue. It’s more like a gentle pitter-patter.
• Denting: While resistant to wind, lower-grade metals can dent from large hail. We always recommend higher-quality standing seam panels to avoid this.

If you plan on staying in your home for the long haul, a metal roof is one of the smartest investments you can make. It’s a core part of the roof restoration and replacement solutions we offer for homeowners looking for a permanent fix.

The Classic Beauty: Slate Roofing

Ah, slate. The granddaddy of premium roofing. When you see a historic home with a gorgeous, timeless roof, you’re probably looking at slate. It’s the definition of old-world craftsmanship.

But Is It Right For You?

Let’s be real, slate is breathtaking. It’s also a bit finicky and demands a specific kind of expertise to install. We don’t recommend just any Columbus roofing company for this job; you need true specialists.

The Upside:

• Unmatched Longevity: A slate roof can last over 100 years. It’s literally a roof for generations.
• Natural Beauty: It’s a natural stone product, so the color and texture are completely unique and incredibly elegant.
• Extreme Durability: It’s fireproof, waterproof, and impervious to rot and mold.

The Downside:

• Cost Prohibitive: This is the most expensive common roofing material by a long shot. The price includes both the heavy materials and the specialized labor.
• Weighty Matters: Slate is extremely heavy. Your home’s structure must be evaluated and often reinforced to handle the load.
• Fragility: While durable against the elements, it can be brittle and crack if walked on. This makes future repairs for things like roof vent leaks more complex.

We love working with slate, but it’s a commitment. It’s not the most affordable path, but for the right historic or luxury home, nothing else compares.

The Modern Maverick: Synthetic Slate & Composite Shakes

What if you want the look of slate or cedar without the weight, cost, or maintenance? Enter synthetic composites. This category has exploded in popularity, and for good reason.

The Best of Both Worlds?

These materials, often made from engineered polymers and rubbers, are designed to mimic high-end materials with modern performance. They’re the chameleons of the roofing world.

The Upside:

• Lightweight & Durable: They offer the classic look without the back-breaking weight. They’re also highly impact-resistant, making them a great choice for areas prone to hail.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike real wood, they won’t rot, split, or attract insects. Unlike real slate, they won’t break.
• Long Lifespan: A quality synthetic roof can last 50 years or more.

The Downside:

• Still Pricey: While cheaper than real slate or high-end cedar, they are more expensive than asphalt and even some metal options.
• Quality Varies: The market is filled with different brands, and not all are created equal. You truly get what you pay for here.

For us at Roofing Pros, synthetics are a fantastic solution for homeowners who have their hearts set on a specific aesthetic but need a more practical, durable, and often more affordable performance profile.

Let’s Break It Down: A Quick Comparison Table

This table should help you see how these materials stack up against each other at a glance.

So, How Do You Even Choose?

With all these options, your head might be spinning. The best way to choose is to ask yourself a few key questions:

• What’s my budget? Be honest with yourself about the initial cost versus long-term value.
• How long do I plan to live here? If it’s less than 15 years, a 50-year roof might be overkill.
• What’s the style of my home? A Victorian home might beg for slate, while a ranch-style might be perfect for metal.
• What are my biggest concerns? Is it storm damage? Energy bills? Curb appeal?

The truth is, there’s no single “best” roof—only the best roof for you. And that’s where a trusted local expert comes in. When you’re searching for “roof installation near me,” you want a team that will listen to your needs, not just push the most expensive product.

Your Roofing Questions, Answered

We hear a lot of the same great questions from homeowners. Here are a few of the most common ones.

1. How do I know if I need a full roof replacement, or just a repair?
Great question. If your roof is young (less than 15 years) and you have a isolated issue like a single roof leak or minor storm damage, a repair is likely sufficient. But if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan and you’re experiencing multiple leaks or widespread wear, a full replacement is probably the more cost-effective long-term solution. We can help you figure that out during an inspection.

2. Can I install a new roof over my old one?
Technically, sometimes yes. But we almost never recommend it. Hiding the old roof prevents us from inspecting the decking for rot or damage. It’s like putting a new floor over a rotten subfloor—it just covers up problems that will get worse. A tear-off, while more work, is the right way to do the job.

3. Why is there such a big price difference between quotes?
FYI, this usually comes down to the quality of materials and the expertise of the crew. The cheapest quote might be using lower-grade shingles or thinner metal, and may not include proper underlayment or ventilation. Remember, your roof is a critical investment. Paying a little more for a top-rated installer like Roofing Pros ensures it’s done correctly the first time.

4. What about warranties?
Always, always ask about warranties. There are two types: the manufacturer’s warranty on the materials and the installer’s warranty on their workmanship. A reputable Columbus roofing company will stand behind both. We offer strong warranties because we trust our materials and our team’s skill.

Wrapping This Up

Phew, that was a lot! But we hope it demystifies the world of roofing materials a bit. Your roof is a big deal—it protects everything you own. Whether you’re dealing with persistent roof leaks, recent storm damage, or you’re just ready for an upgrade, making an informed choice is key.

And hey, if this all still feels a little overwhelming, that’s what we’re here for. The team at Roofing Pros is always ready to chat, offer a no-obligation inspection, and help you find the perfect, affordable roof for your Columbus home. You don’t have to find the nearest guy with a ladder; you can find the right partner for the job. Give us a call, and let’s make sure your house has the hat it deserves