Day in and day out, the roof on your home, commercial property, or other business protects you from rain, winds, UV radiation, and much more. It's smart to work with professionals from a roofing company if you are considering a new roof. According to IBISWorld, in 2022, the roofing contractor industry in the United States was valued at over $56 billion. Given the massive size of the industry, it should come as no surprise that there are many different types of roofing materials. This article will take a look at the three most common types of roofs.

1. Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice when it comes to residential roofs. You've probably seen countless asphalt roofs in your local area. Asphalt shingles can be found in pretty much any climate and from coast to coast.

Asphalt shingles have been around for many decades and, according to This Old House, they're currently the most popular choice of building material for sloped residential roofs with 83% of roofing contractors listing it as their primary source of revenue. What makes asphalt shingles such a great choice? They're generally affordable, quite durable, and asphalt shingles can last for many years. Since asphalt shingles are so common, they're a safe choice as far as aesthetics go as well. You have countless options when it comes to colors so it'll be easy to find the one that's a perfect match for your home.

It takes a bit of skill and the right tools to install asphalt shingles. The skill of the installation crew can have a big impact on how long the roof lasts and how it performs in various situations, such as storms. By working with a top-notch roofing company, homeowners can often reduce the risk of mishaps.

2. TPO Membrane Roofing

If you've ever seen a satellite view of your town, you may have noticed a lot of white roofs. These are TPO membrane roofs and they're extremely popular for commercial buildings with flat roofs. This material comes in wide sheets. Your local roofing company lays down these sheets and seals the seams in between them to create a protective layer over your roof.

There are a few advantages to this material. The material can be cut to whatever size is needed, it's an extremely affordable material, and it's puncture-resistant and fire-resistant. Additionally, TPO membrane roofs can improve a building's energy efficiency because the bright white color reflects light and won't absorb heat from the sun. If you have a business or other commercial building, TPO membrane roofing is a cost-effective and high-quality option.

3. Metal Roofing

When it comes to unique looks, it's hard to beat metal roofing. This roofing material is becoming quite popular in Europe and is starting to grow rather rapidly in the United States as well. If you've seen new houses that are designed to look like upscale barns, you've probably seen a metal roof.

The biggest benefit of metal roofing is its durability. These roofs can rank among the longest-lasting material options, and they're even fire-resistant. This is especially true if the metal roof is installed by a top-notch roofing company.

Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your metal roof. Metal roofing can also be a popular choice in industrial settings owing to its many strengths. Like asphalt, metal roofing is available in different colors and styles. The clean lines are perfect for modern homes.

Ultimately, a metal roof could add a lot of value to your home or other property. If you're still undecided, chat with roofing professionals to see if a metal roof could be the right choice for you and your family. You can also request an estimate so the company can provide you with the most accurate assessment of the cost and the timeline for the project. This ensures you can get the help you need without breaking the bank.

While some materials are more common than others, which material is right for you will often come down to your unique needs and desires. If you're struggling to decide which material is best for your home, it's smart to talk with your local roofing company to learn about the pros and cons of each material type. Our team can assess your needs and find the best roofing solution for your home or business. Call R & JL Exteriors to learn more about how we can assist with your roofing needs!