What Are Residential Roofs Made Of? What Are The Various Types? Here Are Your Answers

What are residential roofs made of? It’s a question that many homeowners likely ask themselves at one time or another. While the answer might not be quite as exciting as learning about the latest celebrity feud, it is still an important bit of information to have. After all, your roof is responsible for keeping you and your family safe and dry, so you want to be sure you know everything about it!

In this post, Integrity Exteriors will look at the various materials used to construct residential roofs. So, whether you want to know everything about your home or you’re just curious about roofs in particular, read on!

Metal Roofing

The first type that we need to discuss is the most common one that you will see on residential dwellings, and that is a metal roof. Metal roofs are made from…you guessed it…metal! The most popular metals used for this type of roofing are aluminum and steel.

These materials are chosen for their durability and their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. In fact, many homeowners with metal roofs report never having any issues with leaks or other types of damage, no matter how severe the storm.

Cedar Shingles and Wood Shakes

The second one is a bit more traditional: a cedar shingle roof. Cedar shingles are made from real wood, and they give your home a very natural look.

They are also quite durable, although not as much as metal roofs. Cedar shingles will usually last around 30 years before they need to be replaced.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes are similar to cedar shingles but are made from thicker pieces of wood. This makes them even more durable, with many lasting 40 years or more. However, they are also more expensive than cedar shingles.

Slate Roof Shingles

Another option for your roof is slate shingles. Slate is a very powerful and durable material, and slate roofs can last over 100 years with proper care. They are also very beautiful and can add a lot of curb appeal to your home.

However, slate roofs are also quite expensive and can cost twice as much as a metal roof.

Ceramic Roofs

Next on the list is a ceramic roof. These are made from fired clay and are very popular in warm climates. Ceramic roofs are very durable, with many lasting 50 years or more.

They are also quite attractive, with various colors to choose from. However, they can be quite expensive as well.

Asphalt Shingles

Last but not least is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are among the most prevalent roofing material used in homes today. They are made from a combination of asphalt and fiberglass and come in various colors and styles.

Asphalt shingles are fairly inexpensive and easy to install, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. However, they don’t last as long as some of the other options on this list, with most only lasting 20-30 years.

Get Your Roof Repaired in Herndon, Virginia.


If you live in Herndon, VA, and need a roof repairIntegrity Exteriors can help. Our team of professional roofers is GAF certified with over a decade of experience in the roofing industry. We offer a wide range of residential roofing services, including repairs, replacements, and installations.

Contact us today or schedule a free consultation. We look forward to helping you keep your home safe and sound!