Best Roofing Materials for UK Homes: Pros, Cons & Costs

Choosing the best roofing material is very important for the safety of your home. The right roof materials not only affect the durability and protection of your house but also influence the aesthetics and energy efficiency.  There are many types of roofing materials, which come with different characteristics. This article explores the best roofing material options, their pros and cons, and their costs to help you make the right choice.

Different Types of Roofing Materials

1- Slate Roofing

Slate is a premium roof material that adds a touch of elegance to any home. It is one of the best roofing materials in terms of longer lifespan and aesthetics, often seen in high-end homes and historic buildings. However, it is a heavy material, which requires some additional structural support. This material can last up to 100 years.

Pros:

• Extremely durable 
• Fire-resistant
• Elegant appearance with a natural finish

Cons:

• Expensive material and installation costs
• A heavy weight requires a strong roof structure
• Can be brittle and may break under impact

Cost: 

£50 – £100 per square metre (it’s just the price for this material)

2- Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roof materials in the UK. They are made from a fibreglass or organic mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules. They are very affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of different colours and styles. These shingles offer good durability and can last between 20 to 30 years if having proper maintenance.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to install and replace
• Different styles and colours
• Good resistance to fire

Cons:

• Easily damaged from extreme weather
• Shorter lifespan

Cost: 

£10 – £30 per square metre

3- Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are roofing materials that are commonly used in Mediterranean-style homes, offering a traditional and elegant look. These are highly durable and resistant to fire and extreme weather damage. These tiles can last up to 40 years.

Pros: 

• Longer lifespan
• Fire-resistant
• Adds an aesthetic look

Cons:

• Heavy, requiring reinforced roof structure
• More expensive than asphalt shingles

Cost:

£20 – £50 per square metre

4- Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are made from the materials like aluminium, steel, zinc, or copper, and are becoming more popular due to their longer lifespan. They can last 40-70 years, which makes them a long-term investment. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, and help to keep your home cool in summer.

Pros:

• Long lifespan
• Lightweight yet strong
• Excellent resistance to fire
• Energy-efficient

Cons:

• Can be noisy during heavy rain or hail
• Higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles
• May dent under impact

Cost:

£40 – £80 per square metre

5- Solar Tiles

Solar roofing tiles are the latest option in the market that attracts a lot of people.  These roof materials integrate solar panels into traditional roofing, and allow you to generate your own electricity and save money on the bill.

Pros:

• Reduces energy bills
• Can qualify for government incentives
• Increases home value

Cons:

• High upfront cost
• Efficiency depends on sunlight exposure
• Requires specialized installation

Cost:

£200 – £300 per square metre

6- Green Roofing

Green roofs are the best roofs and are covered with vegetation, providing excellent insulation and environmental benefits. These roofs are like a small garden, that is on top. These are popular in urban settings for energy efficiency and are best for summers.

Pros:

• Reduces heat absorption
• Supports biodiversity and reduces stormwater runoff
• Enhances aesthetics

Cons:

• High installation and maintenance costs
• Requires a strong roof structure
• Regular watering and care are needed

Cost: 

£80 – £150 per square metre

7- Wood Shingles

Wood shingles provide a natural and rustic look to your home. These are made from cedar, redwood, or pine, and these roof covering materials become more beautiful over time and provide good resistance to insects and decay.

Pros:

• Attractive natural appearance
• Good insulation
• Can last 30-50 years

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent mold
• Prone to fire
• Higher installation costs

Cost:

£40 – £60 per square metre

8- Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing, particularly EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer), is a durable and flexible roofing material and is commonly used for flat roofs and low-slope roofs. It is highly resistant to extreme weather, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, which makes it a long-lasting solution for many homes and commercial buildings.

Pros:

• Lightweight and flexible
• Resistant to water, UV rays, and weather damage
• Easy to repair

Cons:

• Can be less visually appealing
• Installation requires professional expertise
• May require sealing to prevent leaks over time

Cost:

£50 to £80 per square metre

9- Built-up Roofing

Built-up roofing (BUR) is one of the oldest flat roofing materials and consists of multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric. It provides excellent waterproofing and UV resistance, which makes it a great option for commercial and residential flat roofs.

Pros:

• Strong waterproofing properties
• UV-resistant and energy-efficient
• Multiple layers provide durability

Cons:

• Requires strong structural support
• Can be expensive compared to other flat roofing materials

Cost:

£100 to £250 per square metre

Case Study- Roof Material Replacement

Recently, our RBG Roofing contractors have completed a roof material replacement project for a homeowner in Nowich. The client’s old roof, made of ageing clay tiles, was suffering from leaks and structural damage. After an assessment, our team recommended a slate roofing system for better durability and aesthetics.

Process:

The team conducted a full roof inspection to assess damage and structural integrity and removed old clay tiles and repaired underlying wood structures. After this, they installed premium-quality slate roofing for a classic and long-lasting finish which also adds modern insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Results:

The new slate roof covering material significantly enhanced the home’s weather resistance and the energy costs were reduced due to improved insulation. The cost of replacing a roof was $12000, with all additional costs, but this depends on area also.

The roof is expected to last over 100 years with minimal maintenance. This successful project of ours, Norwich roofers‘ commitment to providing the best roofing material solutions for homeowners.

Conclusion

Choosing the right roof covering materials depends on your budget, home style, and durability needs. Whether you opt for slate, clay tiles, metal, or solar tiles, it’s essential to consider long-term maintenance and weather resistance. If you’re considering a new roof, consulting professionals will make sure a high-quality installation that remains for a long time.

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