Asphalt shingles, metal, slate, synthetic slate, cedar shake, clay and concrete tile and flat roof membranes compared by look, weight, life and care.
Every roofing material has a personality. Asphalt shingles are familiar, flexible in style and the most common choice. Metal sheds water and snow, resists fire and can last for decades. Slate and clay tile are beautiful and long-lived but heavy. Synthetic slate and composite products give the look of natural materials with less weight. Cedar shakes bring warmth and need care. Flat roofs use membranes such as TPO, PVC and EPDM, which are designed for low slopes.
The right choice depends on roof shape and pitch, structure, budget, neighborhood rules, noise preferences and how long you plan to stay. In Nashville, shingle and metal roofs dominate, with slate, tile and cedar on special homes. We explain these tradeoffs at your Free Estimate and bring samples so you can see and touch the options before deciding.
Familiar, flexible in color and style, widely available.
Sheds water, resists fire, long service life.
Natural stone with a very long life and heavy weight.
Natural look with lighter weight and less upkeep.
Warm natural look that needs care.
TPO, PVC and EPDM for low slopes.
Asphalt Shingle RoofingClassic asphalt shingle roofs installed over clean decking, proper underlayment and sound flashing, with colors and styles for…Explore 
Standing Seam Metal RoofingConcealed-fastener metal panels with clean raised seams for a modern look, strong weather protection and thermal movement built…Explore 
Stone-Coated Steel RoofingSteel panels coated with stone granules and shaped like tile, shake or shingle for a traditional look with…Explore 
Flat and Low-Slope RoofingMembrane and built-up roof systems for flat porches, additions, modern homes and small commercial buildings, with careful drainage…Explore 
TPO and PVC RoofingHeat-welded single-ply membranes in white and light colors for flat and low-slope roofs on homes and commercial buildings.Explore 
Roof ReplacementComplete tear-off and replacement of aging or damaged roofs with new decking repairs, underlayment, shingles or metal, ventilation…Explore 
Roof Underlayment and Ice and Water ShieldSynthetic underlayment and self-adhering membranes that protect the deck at valleys, eaves and penetrations beneath the roofing.Explore 
Roof Ventilation and Attic AirflowBalanced intake and exhaust ventilation that keeps attics dry in winter and cooler in summer and helps roofs…Explore Size a roof, check its age or ballpark a budget.
Roofing, Siding and Gutter Size CalculatorEnter your measurements to see roof squares and shingle bundles, siding area and gutter lengths to plan for.Try it 
Roof Age and Replacement Timing CheckerPick your roof material, age and warning signs to see a general replacement outlook and what to do next.Try it 
Roof Replacement Budget PlannerPick a roofing, siding or gutter project, set the size and add extras to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it Slate and metal can last many decades, and installation and care matter as much as the material.
Shingles and many metal panels can be repaired in sections. Some materials need specialists.
Yes, such as a metal porch roof with shingles on the main roof, if details are planned.
Comparison guideAsphalt vs Metal RoofingAsphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs compared by cost drivers, life, weight, noise, hail, wind and appearance.Learn more 
Comparison guideRepair vs ReplacementWhen a roof can be repaired, when sections should be replaced and when a full replacement is the…Learn more 
Comparison guideSiding Materials ComparedVinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood and natural wood siding compared by look, durability, care and installation needs.Learn more 
Comparison guideGutter Types ComparedK-style, half-round and box gutters in aluminum, steel and copper compared by capacity, look, durability and care.Learn more Call us and describe your roof, siding or gutters. We will look at your property, talk through options and give you a clear written estimate.
