Different Types of Roofing Materials

When it comes to protecting your home, the roof plays a major role. It shields you from rain, wind, heat, and cold. Choosing the right roofing material matters not just for looks, but also for strength, safety, and long-term value. In this article, our expert roofers in Enfield explain the most common types of roofing materials and which might suit your home best.

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are common and budget-friendly. They're made from a fibreglass base with asphalt and stone on top.

Pros:

• Cheap and easy to install

• Comes in many colours

• Works well on pitched roofs

Cons:

• Lasts only 15–25 years

• Can wear out faster in strong winds

We often suggest asphalt shingles for smaller homes or extensions in Enfield where cost matters.

2. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are made from baked natural clay. They’ve been used for centuries and look great on older homes.

Pros:

• Long-lasting (50+ years)

• Fireproof

• Classic look

Cons:

• Very heavy – needs strong support

• Expensive compared to other options

For historic homes in Enfield, clay tiles are a smart, stylish choice—but only if the structure can hold the weight.

3. Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are similar to clay but made with sand and cement.

Pros:

• Durable (40–60 years)

• Can look like slate or wood

• Better priced than clay

Cons:

• Still quite heavy

• May soak up water and grow moss

Our Enfield roofing team recommends concrete tiles for family homes needing durability and value.

4. Slate

Slate is natural stone cut into thin sheets. It’s elegant and very tough.

Pros:

• Lasts 75–100 years

• Fire and water resistant

• Looks high-end

Cons:

• Heavy – strong rafters needed

• Costly to buy and fit

If you’re restoring a period home in Enfield, slate offers beauty and long life.

5. Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are made from aluminium, steel, or zinc, and are growing in popularity.

Pros:

• Lightweight

• Handles snow, rain, and wind well

• Reflects heat – keeps bills down

Cons:

• Noisy in heavy rain

• Can cost more at the start

Metal is perfect for modern homes or garden rooms in Enfield where strength and a sleek look matter.

6. Green Roofs (Living Roofs)

These are roofs covered in soil and plants. They sit on a waterproof layer.

Pros:

• Great insulation

• Soaks up rainwater

• Good for wildlife

Cons:

• Needs strong base and upkeep

• More expensive to set up

Some Enfield residents are choosing green roofs for eco-friendly extensions or garages.

7. EPDM Rubber Roofing

Used mostly on flat roofs, EPDM is a black rubber sheet that’s glued in place.

Pros:

• Lasts up to 30 years

• Good waterproofing

• Light and easy to install

Cons:

• Can tear if not fitted properly

• Doesn’t suit all building styles

Our roofers in Enfield often use EPDM for flat roof repairs on garages and porches.

8. Felt Roofing

Felt roofs are common for flat areas. They’re made with bitumen and layers of fabric.

Pros:

• Low cost

• Fast to apply

• Easy to fix

Cons:

• Lasts 10–15 years

• Can crack in extreme weather

We use felt roofing often for sheds and smaller flat roofs across Enfield.

9. GRP (Fibreglass) Roofing

GRP roofs use fibreglass and resin to make a hard, watertight surface.

Pros:

• Seamless – no leaks

• Strong and long-lasting

• Looks neat

Cons:

• Slippery when wet

• Needs dry weather to install

It’s a great option for flat roofs if you want something that lasts and looks sharp.

How to Choose the Right Roof Material

Think about:

• Your budget – some materials are pricey but last longer.

• Roof shape – flat or pitched roofs need different materials.

• Weather in Enfield – we get rain, wind, and some snow.

• The age of your home – older homes may need lighter materials or special styles.

• How long you’ll stay – long-lasting roofs make more sense if you're not moving soon.

Trust the Local Experts – Roofers in Enfield

At Berkley Roofing & Building Solutions Ltd, we’ve been helping homeowners in Enfield choose and install the right roofs for years. Whether you’re fixing a leak or building a new roof, we offer:

• Honest advice

• Clear pricing

• Skilled work

• Friendly, local service

No job is too big or small. We work on everything from full roof replacements to flat roof repairs and leadwork. Our goal is to keep your home safe, dry, and looking its best.

Final Words

Your roof protects your home 24/7, so choosing the right material matters. Whether you want a simple felt roof for a shed or a long-lasting slate roof for your home, our team of expert roofers in Enfield is here to help. We’ll guide you through your options and make sure your roof is built to last.

If you’re not sure what roofing material is right for your project, contact Berkley Roofing & Building Solutions Ltd Ltd today. We’re local, trusted, and ready to help.