So, you’ve reached the point where you need a roof replacement, now what? When you need a roof replacement, the number of options can feel overwhelming. With so many roofing materials, colors, costs, and lifespans to consider, it can be not easy to know where to begin. Whether you’re replacing the roof on your current home or selecting materials for a new construction, choosing the right roofing system is a significant decision. But there’s one question you must answer first:
Which roofing material is right for you?
Your roofing choice impacts curb appeal, value, efficiency, and maintenance. Choose a material for Snellville’s heat, humidity, storms, and occasional freezes.
At Legends Restoration Group, we understand how important it is to work with a roofing contractor who provides clear advice, honest recommendations, and real product knowledge. As with many of the topics we explore, such as how underlying structural issues can impact your roof in our guide on how foundation problems cause roof damage , understanding the pros and cons of each roofing material empowers you to make the right decision for your home.
Roofing Materials Buying Guide
Legends Restoration Group works with the five most popular roofing materials found across Georgia communities:
- Asphalt shingles
- Wood shingles and shakes
- Metal roofing
- Tile roofing
- Slate roofing
Each roofing material offers unique advantages and drawbacks. Below is a breakdown to help Snellville homeowners make the best choice.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the U.S., covering more than 70% of homes. They are budget-friendly, easy to repair, and suitable for nearly any architectural style, making them a common choice in Snellville neighborhoods.
Pros
- Available in a wide variety of colors, thicknesses, and warranty levels
- Affordable for most homeowners
- Easy to install, maintain, and repair
- Looks great on almost any home style-from ranch homes to modern designs.
Standard 3-tab shingles last close to 20 years, while high-end architectural shingles may last 30-40 years
Cons
- Vulnerable to hail and strong winds
- Temperature swings can cause cracking over time.
- Most asphalt shingles cannot be recycled, making them less eco-friendly.
2. Wood Shingles & Wood Shakes
Wood roofs provide a warm, natural aesthetic that complements cottage-style, historic, and rustic homes. They come in cedar, redwood, cypress, and pressure-treated pine.
Shingles vs. Shakes
- Wood shingles: Machine-cut → smooth, clean appearance
- Wood shakes: Hand-cut → thicker, more textured, more rustic.
Shakes generally cost more due to their craftsmanship and thickness.
Pros
- Can outlast asphalt by 5–10 years
- A well-maintained wood roof may last up to 50 years.
- Adds a distinctive, timeless character to your home
Cons
- Some woods naturally resist moisture/insects; others do not.
- High maintenance-requires cleaning and debris removal.
- Not ideal in areas prone to wildfires or heavy moisture
3. Metal Roofing
Metal has surged in popularity across Snellville due to its durability, modern appearance, and eco-friendly performance. Aluminum, steel, and zinc are the most common materials used, while copper is the premium, luxury choice.
Pros
- Can mimic the appearance of tile, slate, or shingles
- Lifespan of 50–100 years with warranties up to 50 years
- Resistant to cracking, rotting, and corrosion
- Reflects solar heat, reducing cooling costs
- Withstands winds up to 120 mph, ideal for Georgia storms.
- Very low maintenance
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to asphalt
- It can be noisier during rainstorms if not appropriately insulated.
- Prone to dents from massive hail
- Repairs cost more than asphalt or wood.
4. Tile Roofing (Clay & Concrete)
Tile roofs, especially clay and concrete-are known for their beauty, longevity, and performance in hot climates. They are commonly seen on Mediterranean, Spanish, and high-end homes.
Pros
- Lifespan of 50+ years, rivaling metal roofing
- Naturally resistant to fire and insects
- Light-colored tiles help reduce heat absorption.
- Clay tiles offer excellent thermal resistance.
- Concrete tiles are highly durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to rot and water.
- Can be manufactured to resemble shakes, slate, or clay
Cons
- Limited style variety compared to asphalt
- Heavy-may require additional roof framing.
- Higher overall cost
- Clay tiles can crack when walked on, making repairs more delicate.
5. Slate Roofing
Slate roofs offer unmatched elegance and longevity. Made from natural stone, slate is the top-tier roofing material for luxury homes and European-style architecture.
Pros
- Impervious to moisture, insects, and fire
- Can last 100+ years-the most extended lifespan of any roofing material
- Highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly
- Offers a timeless, high-end aesthetic
Cons
- Very heavy, often requires reinforced support.
- Can break under the weight of a person walking on it
- One of the most expensive roofing options
- Requires installation by a slate specialist
Cost Breakdown for Roofing Materials
Below is a general cost comparison for materials + installation. Prices vary based on roof size, pitch, brand, and installer rates in the Snellville market.
Material | Material Cost | Installation Cost | Total Cost Per Sq. Ft. |
Asphalt Shingles | $1.00–$3.00 | $2.00–$4.50 | $3.00–$7.00 |
Wood Shingles & Shakes | $2.50–$4.00 | $3.00–$5.00 | $5.50–$9.00 |
Metal Roofing | $2.00–$6.00 | $3.00–$7.00 | $5.00–$13.00 |
Clay & Concrete Tile | $5.00–$12.00 | $6.00–$10.00 | $11.00–$22.00 |
Slate Roofing | $4.00–$10.00 | $5.00–$12.00 | $9.00–$22.00 |
Choosing the cheapest material may seem appealing, especially in emergency roof repairs-but taking a long-term approach often results in better value and fewer replacements.
Which Roofing Material Is Best for Your Snellville Home?
Selecting the right roofing material depends on your style preferences, your home’s structure, and your long-term goals. Here’s a quick guide:
✔ Asphalt Shingles
Best for short-term homeowners or those planning to sell soon. Affordable, attractive, and widely used.
✔ Wood Shingles & Shakes
Ideal for homeowners wanting a warm, rustic aesthetic. Requires sun exposure and consistent maintenance.
✔ Metal Roofing
Perfect for long-term homeowners looking for superior durability, energy efficiency, and modern style.
✔ Clay or Concrete Tile
Excellent for high-end homes where longevity and architectural style are essential.
✔ Slate Roofing
A premium option with unmatched elegance and a lifespan that can last generations.
Talk to Legends Restoration Group for Expert Guidance
Choosing the right roofing material doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Legends Restoration Group proudly serves homeowners throughout Snellville, GA with honest recommendations, sample comparisons, and expert craftsmanship.
Whether you’re replacing an existing roof or exploring options for a new home, we’ll help you choose a roofing material that fits your budget, enhances your home, and lasts for decades.
Contact Legends Restoration Group today for your free roof inspection and personalized material consultation!
