Top Roofing Materials: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners in Savannah

Are you looking for information regarding roofing materials for your home or business in the Savannah area? Unlike other places around the country, Savannah is unique due to its humid climate and seasonal hurricanes.

These weather features, combined with the fact that there are countless new and historic homes in the greater Savannah, GA, area, mean roofing materials matter when you replace your roof! Today, the team here at Savannah Roofing Experts will walk you through this complete guide of types of roofing materials, including the pros and cons of each!

Types of Roofing Materials

Roofing materials can take various forms, but in the Savannah, GA, area, the most common type is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing material in North America, and they are known for their affordability and durability.

Here are the other most common roof materials:

1. Asphalt shingles
2. Metal roofing (standing seam, metal panels)
3. Clay Tiles
4. Slate Roofing
5. Wood Shingles
6. Solar shingles (very uncommon)

Below, we will explain each in detail to help Coastal Georgia residents like yourself understand the ins and outs of each roofing system so you are prepared for your next roof replacement!

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, including architectural and three-tab shingles. They are a popular choice for homeowners because they are easy to install and repair. Depending on the quality of the material and installation, asphalt shingles typically last 20 to 30 years. Architectural shingles will last longer since they are heavier and rated higher compared to three-tab shingles.

• Costs: The most cost-effective option, ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot.
• Colors: Asphalt shingles have abundant colors, from classic black or gray to exotic browns and greens.

Attention Coastal Georgia Residents: In Savannah, Pooler, and Richmond Hill, due to the hurricanes the region experiences, we recommend architectural or dimensional shingles. Three-tab shingles are only rated for 90 MPH winds, whereas a new roofing system

2. Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are a durable and long-lasting option, typically lasting 50 years or more. Standing seam metal roofs are resistant to weathering, including heavy rain, hail, and high winds, and they are a classy look for homes in Savannah. While metal roofs are double the price of asphalt roofs, they offer longevity and a variety of colors for those looking to upgrade their curb appeal.

• Styles: Metal roofs are available in various styles, including standing seam metal roofing and metal shingles. Panel metal is not as reliable or durable, but some homes will use it. You can read more about the types of metal roofs here.
• Costs: They are a good choice for homes in hot climates, as they reflect heat and can help reduce energy costs—prices range from $7 to $14 per square foot.

3. Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are a popular choice for homes in hot climates, as they are heat-resistant and can help reduce energy costs. This is why you see these roofs in Florida, Arizona, and other dry and hot climates. Known as a durable and long-lasting roofing material, clay tile roofs often have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years or more. It is safe to say they will most likely outlast you, so if you don’t plan on staying at your Savannah home for a long time, we recommend asphalt shingles!

• Styles: They come in various colors/designs, including traditional and modern designs.
• Great For: An excellent choice for homes with Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture.
• Costs: Prices range from $10 to $20 per square foot.

4. Slate Roofing

Known as the more luxurious and durable option, slate roofing offers a long lifespan of 50 to 200 years with style. It is highly resistant to weathering, including heavy rain, hail, and high winds. Slate roofs vary in style and colors, with countless options, including blended slate tiles, random widths, and patterns. Typically used for commercial buildings, we see more slate roofs in the Savannah and Pooler areas!

• Style: Great choice for homes with classic or traditional architecture, countless styles, and customization.
• Costs: Slate roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles, ranging from $15 to $30 per square foot.

5. Wood Roofing

Wood roofing (cedar shake shingles) is a natural and sustainable option that lasts 20 years and is most commonly found in mountainous areas. Often referred to as wood shakes, these shingles are great for those looking for a rustic or natural look. However, wood shingles are usually prone to mold, algae, moss, warping, and breaking apart over time due to their natural state. The manufacturing process of architectural asphalt shingles has led to many homeowners switching to asphalt because it gives the appearance of dimension like wood shingles but with asphalt durability.

• Costs: Wood shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles, ranging from $5 to $10 per square foot.

Other roofing materials such as membrane roofing, synthetic roofing, TPO, flat roofs, rolled roofing, and more are typically best suited for commercial roofing projects.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Material in Savannah:

Numerous factors will ultimately dictate which shingles or roofing material you choose for your home. The top factor is always costs, but other factors include style, color, and geographical location.

How Much do Roofing Materials Cost?

Roofers most frequently ask about the price of shingles. Below are approximate national averages for roofing material prices (subject to change based on location and availability).

Remember that roofs are priced ‘Per square’, which means 100 square feet. For example, a square of architectural asphalt shingles for $500 installed costs $5.00 per square foot. In the examples below, we will do the price per square foot.

Roofing Material	Cost
Asphalt Shingles	Three Tab: $2-$5 Architectural: $3-$7
Wood Shingles (Cedar Shake Shingles)	Wood Shingles: $4.50 to $9.00 Wood Shake: $6 to $11
Concrete Tiles	$9 to $20 per square foot
Slate Shingles	$20-$30 per square foot and up!
Metal Shingles & Metal Shake	$7-$10 per square foot
Clay Tiles	$10-$20 per square foot
Standing Seam Metal Roofing	$7-14 per square foot

Remember that the cost of roofing materials is the single most significant factor to consider, as it can vary widely depending on the type and quality of material you choose for your roof. Installation and the removal of the existing roof are included in the price. Replacing your roofing system includes removing the old roof and adding the new underlayment, drip edge, shingles, and ridge vent.

Ridge vents and flashing are the only additional costs and are priced per linear foot.

Top 3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof

Below are the most common reasons you see a roof needing replacement.

1. Age and Condition

The age and condition of the roof are significant factors to consider when determining whether to replace it. Homeowners should inspect their roofs regularly for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, curls, and missing shingles. A roof nearing the end of its lifespan may require more frequent repairs and maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming.

2. Leaks and Water Damage

Leaks and water damage are common signs that a roof needs to be replaced. Homeowners should inspect their roofs regularly for signs of leaks, including water stains, warping, and rotting. Leaking or damaged roofs can cause significant damage to the home, including structural damage and mold growth.

3. Missing Shingles

The most common reason you will need to replace your roof is because of missing or damaged shingles. Regardless of the install date of your roof, if you have missing shingles, they need to be addressed. When you need a new roof, the unmistakable sign is the lack of shingles from a storm or if they were not properly installed in the first place.

Choosing a Roofing Material –

Choosing the best roofing material for your home can be daunting, but homeowners can make an informed decision by considering costs, climate, durability, and sustainability. The upside to roofs is they require very little to no maintenance. Combining durability, energy efficiency, and price often means architectural shingles in the coastal Savannah, GA areas. Unlike dry climates or places with heavy snowfall, Savannahians face strong winds and heavy rains. Choosing the best material for your roof or new house should always start with durability and professional installation.

Rest assured, homeowners like yourself can enjoy a safe, secure, and energy-efficient home for years by choosing the suitable roofing material and maintaining it properly. Let the Savannah Roofing Experts help you with your project by reaching out below for a free consultation:

FAQ:

What are the most common roofing materials?

Common types of roofing materials include:

• asphalt shingles,
• metal roofs,
• clay or concrete tiles,
• Cedar shake wood shingles,
• And slate shingles.

What is the most durable roofing material?

The most durable shingle/roofing material is slate shingles, which can last upwards of 100 years. However, they come at a premium price, which is why homeowners usually settle on asphalt shingles or a metal roof to meet durability and budgeting requirements.

The Verdict –

When it comes to quality roofing for your home, there are many different types of roofing materials and styles to choose from in Savannah, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some popular roofing materials include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and tile roofing, while popular styles include gable, patterns, and architectural shingles. Always be sure you consider the following: