If your Twin Cities home is in need of a new roof, if you're like many homeowners here in Minnesota, you're probably picturing something with asphalt shingles.  But you have quite a few options to choose from, and it just makes sense to evaluate them before you make your decision.  The most popular roofing materials in our area include:  asphalt shingles, wood shakes, slate, and metal.  There are other materials such as clay tiles, polymer, and solar glass, but in this post we're going to focus on the four most common ones.

As you compare roofing materials, your two most important factors will most likely be the price and how long you can expect the roof to last. You should also consider how long you're intending to stay in your home.  If your answer is 'as long as possible,' then it's a good idea to choose a roof that has the longest expected life. Along with life expectancy, factor in durability. Our climate can be severe and hard on roofs, so having one that is extremely durable will matter quite a bit.  On the other hand, if you're planning on selling in the near future but know that a roof replacement can't be put off for much longer, you may opt for a less expensive roof as durability may not be as important for you.

The chart below compares cost, life span, and durability.  You may also want to consider things such as energy efficiency, maintenance needs, and eco-friendliness.  Some materials are more recyclable than others, and some are more sustainable.

 

If it's time for a new roof on your home here in the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul metro, we'd love to talk to you about the benefits of metal roofing.  It's on par with wood shakes as far as cost goes, but it's a far more eco-friendly option with virtually no maintenance needs.  And due to its extreme resistance to fire, it's perfect for homes in wooded areas.

Quarve Contracting, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota roofing company. We specialize in the installation of steel and other metal roofs.  For those who prefer asphalt, we install that type of roofing as well.