A house can be topped with a variety of roofing materials,

each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Location is a top concern when selecting materials, for example a sturdier material should be used in areas prone to hurricanes or heavy snow fall. In the medical world a popular phrase is “doctor heal thyself,” but in the world of homes it's “owner know thy roof.”

Fiberglass asphalt shingles consist of a base of glass fibers covered with ceramic coated mineral granules . This is an inorganic shingle with a high fire rating and often a longer warranty (and life span) than other types of shingles. This shingle resists water and cracking. According to Underwriter Laboratories it can also withstand high winds. Seems like a winner!

Architectural shingle is an inorganic, three dimensional shingle. It is made of multiple layers which gives it a depth and thus an appearance close to wood or slate roofing. Disadvantages are weight and cost, both more than other shingles.

A cheaper alternative to shingles is roll roofing. It's used on roofs with shallow grades, or on steeper roofs as a compliment to shingles. This is used most often on industrial buildings. It has a heavy felt base, saturated with asphalt, covered by a smooth or mineral surface. Easy to install, this type of material will last between 10 and 20 years.

Metal roofing is steel panels used in place of shingles. Zinc is used in the best steel panels. Like roll roofing this is most common on industrial buildings. Durable, long lasting and resistant to fire, metal roofing is a great choice.

Wood shingles are the oldest type of shingle. They are made with a variety of woods, but cedar is most common. These are more difficult to install than asphalt shingles. As expected wood shingles are susceptible to fire. A fire-retardant coating reduces the flammability, but does not eliminate it.

In the interest of being complete, a discussion of other elements of the roof is necessary. These are not shingles or tiles or total roof coverings, but nevertheless are elements of a roof. Flashing consists of strips of sheet metal or roofing material used to cover joints, to make the joints waterproof. The boot is a flashing made to fit around the base of a vent pipe. The boot is sometimes plastic. A Drip Edge is an “L” shaped, weather-resistant material placed at exposed roof edges to shed water and protect the roof's wood parts. Felt paper, or building paper, is a sheet with a tough, fibrous base saturated with asphalt installed under shingles. Building paper helps keep water away from the wood frame under the shingles.

The Internet is full of information on these roofing materials, installation and contractors, maintenance, and a lot more about roofs. The more you know the less likely you are to get wet.