Published October 21, 2026 · By John Expert Roofer
Choosing a roofing material is one of the bigger decisions you make for your home. The right choice depends on your roof's pitch, the architecture of the house, the structure's ability to carry weight, your budget and how you want the home to look. Roslyn has a mix of historic and modern homes, so there is no single answer.
Here is an overview of the materials we discuss most often with homeowners planning a roof replacement or new roof installation.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material on Long Island homes. They come in many colors and two main styles: flat three-tab shingles and thicker, layered architectural shingles. Architectural shingles have become the popular choice because of their dimensional look and heavier construction.
Asphalt is versatile, works on most pitched roofs and is relatively straightforward to repair. Learn more on our shingle roofing page.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing, including standing seam panels and metal shingles, is valued for durability and a clean, modern appearance. It sheds snow and rain efficiently and is lightweight compared to tile or slate. Metal can be used on an entire roof or as an accent over porches and bay windows.
Metal requires careful installation, especially at seams, penetrations and transitions, and it generally involves a larger upfront investment than asphalt.
Tile Roofing
Clay and concrete tiles create a distinctive look associated with Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes. They are durable and resistant to fire and rot. However, tile is heavy, and not every roof structure is built to carry it. Switching to tile usually requires a structural evaluation. Individual tiles can crack if walked on improperly, so repairs need experienced hands.
Slate
Natural slate is found on some older and high-end homes. It has a beautiful, timeless appearance. Like tile, it is heavy and requires specialized installation and repair techniques. Owners of slate roofs often focus on repair and maintenance to preserve the existing roof.
Flat Roof Membranes
Low-slope sections over porches, garages and additions cannot use shingles, because shingles depend on gravity to shed water. These areas need a membrane system such as TPO, EPDM or modified bitumen. Each has advantages for seams, reflectivity and repairability. Our flat roofing page covers these systems.
Factors to Weigh
When comparing materials, consider:
- Roof pitch: some materials need a minimum slope
- Structural capacity for heavier materials
- Architectural style and neighborhood character
- Upfront cost versus expected service life
- Repairability and availability of matching materials
- Any local or community requirements for exterior changes
Making the Choice
The best material is the one that suits your home, your budget and your priorities. During an estimate, we talk through options in plain language and explain what is practical for your roof. Our roofing services overview shows the full range of work we handle, and our roof repair vs. roof replacement guide can help if you are still deciding whether to replace.