Choosing the Right Material: Available Roofing Options

Asphalt shingle roof.

Choosing the right roofing material is a major decision—and not just aesthetically. At Above All Roofing, we help homeowners weigh popular roofing materials based on durability, energy efficiency, weather resistance, maintenance, aesthetic appeal, sustainability, and overall lifetime cost. Above All Roofing offers a comprehensive selection of roofing options, including metal roofs, shingles, cedar shakes, synthetic slate/cedar, and EuroShield® Shake and Slate. Each option comes with its unique advantages, ensuring that homeowners can find the perfect roofing solution for their specific requirements.

Here’s a friendly guide to all your roofing material options, perfect for anyone looking at a new roof replacement, or even roof repairs.

Exploring Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles remain the go-to traditional roofing material for many—especially budget-conscious homeowners. Made from asphalt and ceramic granules atop a fibreglass base, they’re easy to install, come in a wide range of colours and styles, and suit most roof pitches. Architectural shingles—also called dimensional or laminated shingles—offer greater durability and aesthetic appeal with their textured, 3D look.

These shingles typically last 20–30 years with proper maintenance, and are ideal when you’re seeking a balance between cost and function. Asphalt roofing can also include energy efficient options, which reduce cooling costs in hot climates. See all our Shingle options.

Benefits: 

  • Economic
  • Lots of Colour Options
  • Easy Repair and Maintenance
  • Algae & Moss Resistance

The Appeal of Cedar Shakes & Wood Shingles

If you’re after natural charm, wood shakes or wood shingles—especially cedar—bring warmth and character. They perform well in cold climates and resist strong winds, pests, and impact.

Cedar shakes are a roofing material renowned for their natural beauty, durability, and unique characteristics. Each shake is unique, offering rustic beauty and excellent natural insulation. Made from handcrafted cedar logs, each shake is distinct, lending a rustic and timeless charm to the roof. Cedar shakes are visually appealing and enhance the overall aesthetic of the home. Apart from their beauty, cedar shakes offer excellent insulation properties, keeping homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They are also highly resistant to strong winds, impact, and pests. With proper maintenance, cedar shakes can last between 30 and 40 years, making them a long-term investment that adds value to the property. But do note—they require more upkeep and may not be suitable in fire-prone areas. See our Cedar Shakes services.

Benefits:

  • Classic Aesthetic 
  • Sustainable Product
  • Natural Product
  • Long Lasting
  • Highly Durable

The Advantages of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs—made from steel, aluminium or copper—are among the best roofing materials for energy-efficient, weather resistant performance. Metal roofs have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their exceptional durability, energy efficiency, and longevity. These roofs are constructed from high-quality metal materials such as steel, aluminum, or copper. They reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and easing energy costs. Metal roofs are also fire resistant, strong against hail or high winds, and often contains recycled materials. With a lifespan of 50 – 70 years or more, it’s a smart, long‑term investment when paired with proper maintenance.

The advantages of metal roofs go beyond their durability. They are highly resistant to fire, impact, and extreme weather conditions. Metal roofs are also known for their energy efficiency, as they reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, leading to lower cooling costs. Additionally, metal roofs are environmentally friendly, often containing a significant percentage of recycled materials. Great for flat roofs or low-slope roofs, metal roofing stays lightweight and won’t overly tax your roof structure. While upfront costs can be higher, the reflective coatings and minimal upkeep make metal roofs cost-effective over time. Their long lifespan, which can exceed 50 years with proper maintenance, makes them a cost-effective investment for homeowners. See our Metal Roof services.

Benefits:

  • Strong/ Light weight
  • 40 year life
  • Max Durability
  • Reduced Repair and Maintenance
  • Environmental b/c metal can be recycled

Synthetic Slate/Cedar: A Modern Alternative

These composite shingles mimic high-end materials—natural slate or cedar shakes—without the weight or high cost. Made from polymers and recycled content, they offer fire resistance, low maintenance, and versatile aesthetic appeal. Perfect for homeowners seeking sophistication without the hefty installation or structural requirements.

Synthetic slate and cedar are innovative roofing options that replicate the appearance of natural slate or cedar shakes while offering additional benefits. These synthetic materials are typically made from a combination of polymers and recycled materials. Synthetic slate provides the elegant look of traditional slate but without the high cost and heavy weight. It is highly durable, fire-resistant, and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. Synthetic cedar offers the charm of natural cedar shakes while being more affordable and requiring less maintenance. Both options come in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic while enjoying the advantages of modern roofing materials. See our Synthetic Slate/Cedar services.

Benefits:

  • Advanced Aesthetic
  • Increased Impact resistance
  • Lots of Color Options
  • Algae and Moss Resistance
  • Heavy Weight Construction

EuroShield® Shake and Slate: Sustainable Roofing Solution

EuroShield® Shake and Slate is a new and innovate sustainable roofing option that combines the timeless beauty of slate or cedar shakes with environmentally friendly materials. Crafted from recycled rubber—including used tyres—they deliver impact resistance, durability, and help reduce landfill waste. They’re lightweight, easier to install than real slate, and retain their look through extreme weather conditions.

EuroShield® shingles offer exceptional durability, impact resistance, and protection against the elements. They are lightweight, making them easier to install and reducing the load on the structure. With their sustainable qualities and longevity, EuroShield® Shake and Slate contribute to a greener environment while providing the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials. See our new EuroShield® Shake and Slate shingles option.

Benefits:

  • Exceptional Aesthetic
  • Max Durability
  • Max Wind Resistance 
  • Max Impact Resistance
  • Long Life Cycle 50year
  • Environmental (Made from Recycled Products)
  • More Cost effective than the classic (cedar shake or slate) products

Concrete & Clay Tiles

While not covered extensively on our site, tile roofing—concrete or clay—is a strong contender. These traditional roofing systems can last for 50–75 years or more, are highly resistant to fire and high winds, and work well in warm climates. They are heavy and typically require extra structural support—and additional cost.

What To Consider When Selecting Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing option requires careful consideration of various factors. First and foremost, budgetary constraints play a crucial role in decision-making. Each roofing option comes with its own price range, and homeowners must assess their financial capacity and long-term investment goals. Climate suitability is another vital aspect. Different roofing materials perform better in specific climates, so it’s important to select a material that can withstand the local weather conditions. Aesthetics should not be overlooked, as the roof contributes significantly to the overall curb appeal of the home. Homeowners should choose a roofing option that complements the architectural style and personal preferences. Other factors to consider include maintenance requirements, lifespan, eco-friendliness, and any local building code restrictions. Seeking advice from roofing professionals can provide valuable insights and guidance based on individual circumstances.

1. Budget & Cost per Square Metre

Asphalt shingles typically cost less up front, while metal, slate, cedar, or tile involve higher initial investment—but pay off over time with longer lifespans and lower maintenance.

2. Climate & Weather Resistance

In areas prone to hail, heavy snow, high winds or wildfires, consider metal roofs or composite shingles. Cedar and tile can also handle humidity or cold climates well.

3. Roof Pitch / Slope

Certain materials only work on pitched roofs. For example, asphalt shingles require at least 2:12 pitch. Low-slope or flat roofs are better suited to metal panels, EPDM, or other membrane roofing options.

4. Maintenance & Warranties

Roofing systems vary in upkeep. Cedar needs periodic sealing, while metal and synthetic options tend to be low maintenance. Look for strong material and installation warranties with your residential roofing contractors.

5. Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

Energy-efficient options—such as reflective metal, cool asphalt shingles, or recycled composites—help reduce cooling costs and environmental impact. These materials often contain recycled content or can be recycled themselves at end of life.

6. Aesthetic Appeal & Architectural Style

Your roofing choice should complement your home’s style. Traditional shingles suit many styles, cedar blends well with rustic homes, whereas metal shingles or slate pair beautifully with both modern and classic architecture. Consider color harmony, undertones, and landscape when selecting.

Professional Roofing Installation and Maintenance

Regardless of the roofing option chosen, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial for long-term performance and durability. Above All Roofing offers expert installation services carried out by trained professionals who understand the nuances of each roofing material. They ensure that the installation is done to the highest standards, maximizing the roof’s potential lifespan and performance. Additionally, regular maintenance, including inspections, cleaning, and repairs, helps identify and address any issues before they escalate into more significant problems. Above All Roofing provides tailored maintenance packages for each roofing type, enabling homeowners to keep their roofs in optimal condition throughout the years.

Why Work With Professional Roofing Contractors?

  • Precise installation ensures performance and preserves roofing warranties.
  • Roofers like Above All assess the full roofing system, including insulation, ventilation and support structure—crucial especially for older homes or unusual pitches.
  • Above All offers tailored maintenance plans for your chosen roofing material—helping your roof stay in top condition and delivering peace of mind.

Making the Right Choice

For most homeowners, choosing the right roofing material can feel daunting. If you’re seeking a complete roof replacement, traditional asphalt shingles and metal roofs offer reliable, cost-effective choices. If you’re looking for aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, sustainability, or weather resistance, you might opt for synthetic roofing, cedar, or EuroShield®. For long-term value and minimized maintenance, metal roofing or high‑grade composite shingles stand out.

While most roofing contractors offer many of these same materials, here at Above All Roofing we guide you through selecting the best roofing materials based on our climate, roof structure and slope, architectural style, expected lifespan, and your budget: and deliver a new roof with skilled installation and solid warranty protection.

Get in touch to discuss your right roofing material and get a free, no-obligation quote. Whether you’re after traditional roofing material charm or cutting-edge performance, we’re here to support your new roof residential roofing project – every step of the way. Click here to see all our Roofing services or contact us for a free roofing quote.