Philadelphia is a big, diverse place with a great blend of old and new architecture. Classic colonial structures more than a hundred years old stand alongside sleek modern homes. We’ve put roofs on every type of house in Philadelphia and the surrounding area, so we’ve seen them all.
But what are the most common roof types in Philadelphia? What are some other available options? In this article, we’ll discuss the most popular roofing options in our region and give you a little information about them so you can decide on what roofing material is best for your house.
Asphalt Shingles
The most common roofing type here or anywhere else in America is asphalt shingles, but it’s more complicated than that because there are different types of shingles to consider, and they come in hundreds of styles and colors. Whichever you choose, asphalt is the cheapest option of all roofing materials, but that doesn’t mean it’s inferior.
Three-Tab
The cheapest of the asphalt options is the three-tab shingle. They’re packed flat in bundles and easily recognizable by their signature three slats that lay over the shingle row beneath them. Three-tab shingles lay flat on your roof and are lightweight, so high winds can get underneath them and occasionally damage them or rip them off.
Three-tab shingles come in dozens of different colors to better match your home, but aside from that, there isn’t much difference in appearance.
Dimensional
Slightly more expensive than the three-tab shingle is the dimensional, or architectural, shingle. These shingles have an additional sheet fixed on top of the first row and appear three-dimensional when installed. They’re more durable than three-tab shingles and are at less risk of blowing off or getting storm damage.
Premium
Premium shingles are the last type of asphalt shingles. These are still more expensive, but they’re available in hundreds of different styles while still offering the same protection and sturdiness. Premium asphalt shingles can be made to look like almost any other type of roofing material, including slate or tile.
Metal
If you’re interested in something even hardier than asphalt shingles, another great option is metal roofing. Metal roofs come in zinc, aluminum, copper, or steel and are available in many styles or colors. They’re easier to install, but they’re more expensive than asphalt shingles.
Metal roofing is almost maintenance-free. Once we’ve installed it, make sure it’s clear of debris, and that it’s free from rust or damage. Most metal roofs have a long warranty, so there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the patter of rain for years to come. You’ll be secure from the elements no matter if it’s snow, rain, or driving sleet.
These are the most popular roofing styles in Philadelphia, but there are other options such as clay or slate. Most other material choices cost more, and they might not have the longevity or durability. If you have any questions, please call for an appointment. We’re happy to answer all your questions.
