Roofing Materials: Shingles, Tile, and Metal Compared

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in the United States. Three-tab shingles are the basic option at $3-$5 per square foot installed, with a 20-25 year lifespan. Architectural (dimensional) shingles have a thicker, layered look and cost $4-$7 per square foot with a 30-50 year lifespan.

Premium designer shingles that mimic slate or cedar can cost $7-$12 per square foot. Your replacement should match the grade of your existing shingles.

Tile roofing

Concrete and clay tile roofs are common in warmer climates like Florida, the Southwest, and California. Concrete tile costs $6-$12 per square foot installed, while clay tile costs $10-$20 per square foot. Tile roofs can last 50-100 years but are heavy and require a reinforced roof structure.

When tiles are damaged, matching the profile, color, and material of existing tiles is critical. Discontinued tile styles may require a larger replacement area to maintain a uniform appearance.

Metal roofing

Metal roofing includes standing seam panels, corrugated metal, and metal shingles or tiles. Standing seam costs $8-$16 per square foot installed and lasts 40-70 years. Metal shingles cost $6-$12 per square foot.

Metal roofs are durable, energy-efficient, and resistant to wind and hail, but denting and scratching can occur. Repairs to metal roofs require matching the panel profile, gauge, and finish, which can be challenging with older or discontinued products.

Matching and like-kind-and-quality

When your insurance replaces a damaged section of your roof, the new materials must match the existing roof in type, grade, color, and profile. New asphalt shingles on a 10-year-old roof will look different from the existing weathered shingles. If matching is not possible on a partial replacement, the entire roof slope or the full roof may need replacement.

This matching requirement is the same principle that applies to flooring and paint.

What to do

Know your roof material type and grade before filing a claim. Check whether your shingles are three-tab or architectural, and note the brand and color if possible. For tile roofs, identify the tile profile and material.

For metal roofs, note the panel type and gauge. Photograph your roof up close if safely accessible. When you receive your insurance estimate, verify that the material specified matches what you have.

Do not accept a three-tab shingle replacement for an architectural shingle roof.