Choosing roofing materials can feel overwhelming when you’re staring at dozens of options with varying price points, lifespans, and features.
The “good, better, best” guide to roofing materials simplifies the decision by breaking down choices into three clear categories based on performance, durability, and value for Wisconsin and Minnesota homes.
Every roofing material has strengths and tradeoffs. What works perfectly for one home might not suit another based on budget, architectural style, and long-term goals. Let’s explore the options in each category so you can make an informed decision.
Good: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles represent the most popular roofing choice in our region, and for solid reasons. They offer reliable protection at an accessible price point, making them an excellent starting point for most residential roofing projects.
Why Asphalt Shingles Work
- Most affordable option for roof replacement or installation
- Wide variety of colors and styles to match any home design
- Proven performance in Wisconsin and Minnesota weather
- Easier and faster to install than premium materials
- Readily available with straightforward repair processes
Modern asphalt shingles have improved dramatically from older versions. Premium asphalt products resist algae growth, withstand severe weather, and provide enhanced durability compared to basic three-tab shingles from decades past.
Lifespan Expectations
Standard asphalt shingles typically last 15-25 years, depending on weather exposure, ventilation, and maintenance. Architectural or dimensional shingles offer upgraded aesthetics and slightly longer lifespans within the asphalt category.
Best For
- Budget-conscious homeowners seeking reliable protection
- Properties planning shorter-term ownership (5-15 years)
- Homes needing traditional aesthetic appeal
- Projects requiring quick installation timelines
Better: Rubber and Modified Bitumen
Rubber roofing and modified bitumen systems occupy the middle ground, offering enhanced durability and performance beyond standard asphalt while remaining more affordable than premium metal options.
Rubber Roofing Advantages
This type excels on flat or low-sloped roofs where traditional shingles don’t perform well. This material provides excellent waterproofing, flexibility in temperature extremes, and resistance to Wisconsin and Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles.
- Superior waterproofing compared to asphalt
- Excellent for flat or low-slope applications
- Low maintenance requirements over time
- Cost-effective repairs when needed
- Energy-efficient with proper installation
Modified Bitumen Benefits
Modified bitumen combines asphalt with modifiers that enhance flexibility and durability. This roofing system handles temperature fluctuations well and provides reliable protection for commercial buildings and residential properties with appropriate roof pitches.
Lifespan Expectations
Rubber roofing systems typically last 30-50 years with proper maintenance. Modified bitumen offers similar durability, often reaching 20-30 years depending on installation quality and environmental factors.
Best For
- Flat or low-sloped roof applications
- Homeowners wanting lower maintenance requirements
- Properties in areas with extreme temperature swings
- Long-term homeowners seeking better value over time
Best: Metal Roofing
Metal roofing represents the premium choice for homeowners prioritizing longevity, energy efficiency, and superior weather resistance. While initial costs run higher, the long-term value often exceeds other options.
Metal Roofing Performance
Metal roofs withstand Wisconsin’s harsh winters and hot summers exceptionally well. Snow slides off easily, reducing ice dam risks. The durability of metal withstands high winds, hail, and severe weather that damages lesser materials.
Key Advantages
- Longest lifespan of common roofing materials (40-70+ years)
- Superior energy efficiency reduces heating and cooling costs
- Excellent wind and impact resistance
- Fire-resistant properties enhance home safety
- Low maintenance requirements throughout the lifespan
- Environmentally friendly and recyclable
Style Options
Modern metal roofing comes in various profiles, including standing seam, metal shingles, and stone-coated steel. Colors and finishes range from traditional to contemporary, fitting virtually any architectural style.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofing reflects solar heat rather than absorbing it like asphalt. This reflective property can reduce cooling costs by 10-25% during summer months. Combined with proper insulation, metal roofs contribute significantly to overall home energy efficiency.
Lifespan Expectations
Quality metal roofing installed properly can last 50 years or more, with some premium systems warranted for up to 70 years. This longevity means many homeowners install just one metal roof over their lifetime of homeownership.
Best For
- Long-term homeowners planning decades in their property
- Properties in areas with severe weather exposure
- Environmentally conscious homeowners
- Those prioritizing energy efficiency and lower utility costs
- Homes where longevity justifies higher upfront investment
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
The best roofing material depends on multiple factors beyond just initial cost. Consider these elements when deciding:
- Budget considerations: Weigh upfront cost against lifespan. Metal roofing costs more initially but often lasts twice as long, lowering long-term cost.
- Homeownership plans: Short-term ownership may not justify premium materials. Long-term homes benefit most from durability.
- Architectural style: Some materials suit certain designs better. Metal fits modern homes, while asphalt works well with traditional styles.
- Climate demands: Wisconsin and Minnesota weather require materials that survive freeze-thaw cycles, snow load, and temperature swings. All perform well, but metal holds up best in severe conditions.
Expert Installation Matters
Even the best roofing materials perform poorly with substandard installation. Proper installation techniques, quality underlayment, adequate ventilation, and attention to detail determine whether your roof reaches its expected lifespan.
Krumm Exteriors has installed all types of roofing materials throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. Contact our expert roofing team to discuss which materials make the most sense for your home.
