How to Choose the Best Roofing Materials for Your Home – A Complete Guide by ASAP Roofing and Exteriors
When it comes to protecting your home, few decisions are as critical as choosing the right roofing material. At ASAP Roofing and Exteriors, we know your roof is more than just a shelter—it’s an investment in safety, energy efficiency, curb appeal, and long-term value. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every major roofing material, their pros and cons, and how to select the perfect fit for your climate, budget, and personal style.
Understanding Roofing Material Types
Asphalt Shingles – The Most Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles dominate the American roofing market for a reason. They’re cost-effective, easy to install, and come in a wide range of styles and colors. Options like architectural shingles add depth and dimension to your roof, while three-tab shingles offer a sleek, traditional look.
- Lifespan: 15–30 years
- Pros: Affordable, easy to replace, decent durability
- Cons: Susceptible to wind uplift, lower lifespan than premium materials
Metal Roofing – Sleek, Strong, and Sustainable
Metal roofs have exploded in popularity thanks to their durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. They come in steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc, and can mimic other materials like shingles or shakes.
- Lifespan: 40–70 years
- Pros: Fire-resistant, recyclable, reflects heat
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, can be noisy without insulation
Tile Roofing – Elegant and Timeless
Clay and concrete tiles bring an Old World charm to homes and are especially popular in hot, dry climates like parts of the Southwest.
- Lifespan: 50–100+ years
- Pros: Extremely durable, excellent thermal insulation
- Cons: Very heavy (requires structural support), expensive
Slate Roofing – Premium Natural Beauty
For a truly luxurious look, natural slate tiles are the pinnacle of roofing elegance. They are fireproof, resistant to weather, and last a lifetime.
- Lifespan: 75–200 years
- Pros: Eco-friendly, extremely long-lasting
- Cons: High cost, very heavy, specialized installation required
Synthetic Roofing – Modern Innovation
Composite shingles, often made from recycled materials, are engineered to imitate high-end products like slate or wood shake while being more lightweight and affordable.
- Lifespan: 30–50 years
- Pros: Lightweight, customizable, eco-conscious
- Cons: Can be more expensive than asphalt, new to market
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Your Roofing Material
Climate and Weather Resistance
Utah’s climate is diverse—hot summers, snowy winters, and occasional hailstorms. At ASAP Roofing and Exteriors, we recommend materials like metal roofing or architectural asphalt shingles that can handle dramatic temperature swings and strong winds.
Budget and Long-Term Value
While asphalt is the most budget-friendly up front, metal or synthetic roofs may offer a better ROI due to their longevity and low maintenance.
Curb Appeal and HOA Requirements
Aesthetic matters. Your roof should complement the architectural style of your home. Whether you’re in a modern build or a historic district, choose a style that enhances curb appeal and complies with HOA guidelines.
Structural Integrity of Your Home
Not all homes can support the weight of slate or tile without reinforcement. Always consult a professional to ensure your home’s framing can handle the material you choose.
Why Homeowners Choose ASAP Roofing and Exteriors
We’re more than just roofers—we’re your neighbors. ASAP Roofing and Exteriors has been serving Utah homeowners with high-quality roofing solutions backed by integrity, speed, and transparency.
Our Promise:
- Fast turnarounds
- Licensed, bonded, and insured
- Manufacturer-certified installations
- Clear, honest estimates
- Ongoing customer support
Real Testimonials from Our Roofing Clients
“We had no idea which material was best, but ASAP walked us through every step. We ended up going with metal, and it’s the best decision we’ve made. The crew was fast, polite, and left everything spotless.”
— Lindsey T., West Jordan, UT
“ASAP Roofing helped us find the perfect shingles for our home. They didn’t try to upsell us—just gave straight advice. Installation was smooth, and now our home looks brand new.”
— Brian P., Layton, UT
FAQs About Choosing the Right Roofing Material
Q: How long should a roof last in Utah’s climate?
A: Asphalt shingles last 15–30 years, while metal and tile can last 50+ years with proper installation and maintenance.
Q: Can I install a new roof over old shingles?
A: Sometimes, but we don’t recommend it. A full tear-off ensures we can inspect the decking and provide better long-term performance.
Q: Is metal roofing noisy in the rain?
A: Not if properly insulated. Most modern metal roofs include sound-dampening underlayments.
Q: What’s the most energy-efficient roofing material?
A: Metal roofing reflects solar heat, which helps keep your home cooler in summer and can reduce HVAC costs.
Q: Will my new roof increase home value?
A: Yes. Especially with premium materials or an architectural upgrade, a new roof is one of the top ROI home improvements.
Our Service Areas
ASAP Roofing and Exteriors serves homeowners throughout Salt Lake City and nearby cities in Utah. We’ve worked on homes in:
Learn more about our services by visiting our Roof Replacement and Storm Damage pages.
Choose the Right Roof the First Time
Choosing the right roofing material is not just about price—it’s about performance, longevity, aesthetics, and peace of mind. At ASAP Roofing and Exteriors, we help you find the perfect balance between function and style, backed by skilled craftsmanship and top-tier materials.