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🏠🏢 What’s the Best Roofing Material for Your home or business?

  • jamie59416
  • Jan 26
  • 3 min read

Whether you're replacing a roof on your home or installing one on a new commercial building, choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right roof offers protection, energy efficiency, curb appeal—and saves you money in the long run.

But with so many options on the market, how do you know which material is best for your needs?

At Noffke Roofing, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners and business owners in Wisconsin choose the right roofing system. In this post, we break down the best roofing materials for both residential and commercial buildings, including pros, cons, and when each one makes the most sense.

Commercial Flat Roofing
Flat Roofing Project in Process in Southeast Wisconsin

🏡 Best Roofing Materials for Residential Homes

1. Asphalt Shingles (Most Popular)

Best for: Most homeowners looking for an affordable, reliable option.

✅ Pros:

  • Cost-effective

  • Easy to install and repair

  • Available in many colors and styles

  • Warranties up to 30+ years

❌ Cons:

  • Shorter lifespan compared to premium options

  • Vulnerable to high winds and hail


2. Metal Roofing

Best for: Owners who want durability, energy savings, and a modern look.

✅ Pros:

  • Lasts 40–70 years

  • Reflects sunlight (great for energy efficiency)

  • Fire, wind, and hail-resistant

  • Low maintenance

❌ Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost

  • Can be noisy in heavy rain (though underlayment helps)


3. Wood Shake or Shingles

Best for: Traditional or historic-style roofs with high curb appeal.

✅ Pros:

  • Natural, rustic appearance

  • Good insulation value

❌ Cons:

  • Requires regular maintenance

  • Not ideal in wet climates (mold, rot risk)

  • Fire hazard without treatment


4. Slate or Synthetic Slate

Best for: High-end roofs & Owners seeking a luxury aesthetic and long-term value.

✅ Pros:

  • Extremely long lifespan (up to 100 years)

  • Natural, elegant appearance

  • Resistant to fire, mold, and insects

❌ Cons:

  • Very heavy (may need extra structural support)

  • Can be more expensive and labor-intensive to install

Metal wall panel
Metal wall panel

🏢 Best Roofing Materials for Commercial Buildings

1. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

Best for: Flat or low-slope commercial roofs seeking energy efficiency.

✅ Pros:

  • Lightweight and flexible

  • UV and heat-reflective (great for reducing cooling costs)

  • Resistant to punctures and chemicals

  • Low maintenance

❌ Cons:

  • Not the top choice for very cold climates without proper insulation products.


2. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

Best for: Flat roofs in variable climates (including harsh Wisconsin winters).

✅ Pros:

  • Long lifespan (20–30 years)

  • Excellent weather resistance

  • Affordable option for large buildings

❌ Cons:

  • Black EPDM absorbs heat unless coated. (However, ask about white)

  • Seams can become a weak point over time


3. Modified Bitumen

Best for: Commercial buildings needing an extra layer of waterproofing and durability.

✅ Pros:

  • Multi-layer protection

  • Great for heavy foot traffic

  • Easy to repair and patch

❌ Cons:

  • Shorter lifespan than TPO or metal


4. Commercial Metal Roofing

Best for: Businesses looking for a long-term, durable, and eco-friendly solution.

✅ Pros:

  • Lifespan of 40+ years

  • Fire- and weather-resistant

  • Sustainable and recyclable

  • Low long-term maintenance costs

❌ Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost


🧠 How to Choose the Right Material for Your Roof

Ask yourself these questions:

  • What's your budget?

  • Do you need a roof that’s low maintenance?

  • Is your building residential or commercial?

  • How long do you plan to stay in your home or own your building?

  • What’s the local climate and weather pattern?

In Wisconsin, your roof has to handle:

  • Heavy snow and ice

  • Freeze-thaw cycles

  • High winds

  • Occasional hailstorms

Choosing a material that holds up in our climate is key.

💬 Need Help Deciding? Let’s Talk

At Noffke Roofing, we don’t just install roofs—we help you make the right decision for your home or business. Whether you need an affordable asphalt roof or a high-performance TPO system, our local experts are here to help.

📞 Call 262-242-5320 to schedule your free estimate.

Protect your property with a roof that lasts. Choose quality. Choose experience. Choose Noffke Roofing.

 
 
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