Roofing Materials

Explore various roofing materials, their properties, advantages, limitations, and typical costs. This comprehensive guide helps you make informed decisions for your roofing project.

NanoTech Cool Roof Coat

15-20 years with proper maintenance

A high-performance reflective coating system designed to extend the life of existing roofs while reducing energy costs through superior solar reflectance.

Typical Cost

$3.00 - $5.00 per square foot (materials and professional installation)

Advantages

  • • Extends existing roof life by 10-20 years
  • • Reduces cooling costs by up to 30%
  • • Excellent waterproofing capabilities
  • + 2 more

Limitations

  • • Requires proper surface preparation
  • • Not suitable for roofs with severe structural issues
  • • Multiple coats required for warranty coverage
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Metal Roofing

40-70+ years depending on material

Durable and weather-resistant roofing option made from various metals including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc alloys.

Typical Cost

$5.00 - $14.00 per square foot (varies by metal type)

Advantages

  • • Exceptional longevity (40-70+ years)
  • • Highly fire-resistant
  • • Low maintenance requirements
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Limitations

  • • Higher initial cost than asphalt shingles
  • • Potential for noise during heavy rain
  • • Can dent from severe impacts
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Asphalt Shingles

15-30 years depending on shingle quality

The most common residential roofing material in North America, made from fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules.

Typical Cost

$1.50 - $5.50 per square foot installed

Advantages

  • • Cost-effective initial installation
  • • Wide variety of colors and styles
  • • Relatively easy installation and repairs
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Limitations

  • • Shorter lifespan than many alternatives
  • • Less environmentally friendly
  • • Poor performance in extreme temperature fluctuations
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EPDM (Rubber) Membrane

20-30 years with proper installation

A durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used for low-slope or flat roofing applications.

Typical Cost

$3.00 - $6.00 per square foot installed

Advantages

  • • Excellent durability and weather resistance
  • • Simple and relatively quick installation
  • • Low maintenance requirements
  • + 2 more

Limitations

  • • Can be punctured by sharp objects
  • • Black EPDM absorbs heat (though white options are available)
  • • Adhesive seams may deteriorate over time
  • + 1 more
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