Asphalt, metal, tile, aluminum, wood, or spray foam? A plain-English look at the pros, cons, and best fit for each.
When it's time for a new roof, the material you choose shapes everything that follows — how the home looks, how long the roof lasts, how it handles Missouri storms, and what you pay up front. There's no single "best" roof; there's the best roof for your home, your budget, and how long you plan to stay. Here's a plain-English rundown of the six materials we install, with the honest pros and cons of each, so you can narrow it down with confidence.
Asphalt shingles are far and away the most common roof on St. Louis-area homes, and they're a great default for most people. They're affordable (typically in the $5,000 to $10,000 range for a home, though every roof varies), come in dozens of colors and styles, and modern architectural shingles handle wind and weather well. The trade-off is a shorter lifespan than metal or tile — roughly 20 to 30 years. If you want a proven, budget-friendly roof that looks great and does the job, this is usually the answer. Learn more on our asphalt shingle roofing page.
Best for: most homeowners who want strong value, lots of style options, and a reliable roof without a premium price tag.
A metal roof costs more up front (generally $8,000 to $25,000 depending on the metal and roof size) but can last 40 to 70 years, making it a true buy-it-once option. Metal sheds rain and snow, resists wind, won't lose granules, and can even help reflect summer heat. The higher cost and a more contemporary look are the main considerations. For homeowners planning to stay put for decades, the long lifespan often justifies the investment. See our metal roofing page.
Best for: homeowners staying long-term who want maximum longevity, durability, and low maintenance.
Clay and concrete tile is one of the most durable and distinctive roofing options, often lasting 50 years or more while resisting fire, rot, and insects. It carries a premium price and is heavy, so your home's structure has to be able to support the weight — something we always confirm before recommending it. Where it fits, tile delivers a striking look and a roof that can outlast the mortgage. More on our tile roofing page.
Best for: homeowners who want a premium, character-rich roof with exceptional longevity and don't mind the higher cost.
Aluminum shingles are a smart middle ground: they offer the long life of metal (40 to 50 years or more) and won't rust, but they're shaped to mimic the look of traditional shingles rather than a standing-seam panel. They're also lightweight, which can be a plus on some homes. If you love the idea of a metal roof's durability but prefer a more traditional appearance, these are worth a look. See our aluminum shingles page.
Best for: homeowners who want metal-level longevity with a more conventional shingle appearance.
Few roofs have the warm, natural charm of wood shingles and shakes. They typically last around 25 to 30 years and suit certain home styles beautifully. The trade-off is maintenance: wood needs to be kept clear of moss, debris, and trapped moisture to reach its full life, which takes some upkeep in our humid summers. If the look is what you're after and you're willing to maintain it, wood can be a wonderful choice. More on our wood shingle roofing page.
Best for: homeowners who love a natural, traditional aesthetic and don't mind the added maintenance.
Spray polyurethane foam is a specialty system, used mainly on flat and low-slope roofs you'll find on some additions, modern homes, and commercial buildings. It creates a seamless, insulating layer and can last 25 years or more when the protective top coat is renewed periodically. It's not a fit for a typical sloped residential roof, but for the right low-slope application it's an excellent, energy-efficient solution. See our spray foam roofing page.
Best for: flat or low-slope roofs, including many commercial buildings and modern additions.
The factors that should drive your choice: your budget (up front vs. long-term), how long you plan to stay in the home, your home's architectural style, the slope of your roof, and how much maintenance you're willing to do. Curious how the lifespans stack up? Our guide on how long a roof lasts by material lays them all out side by side.
For most St. Louis-area homeowners, the decision comes down to value versus longevity. Asphalt shingle wins on up-front cost and flexibility; metal, aluminum, and tile win on lifespan and low maintenance over the long haul. The right answer depends on your specific home and how long you'll be in it — and it helps to see real samples and a clear estimate before deciding.
That's where we come in. When you're planning a roof replacement, our free inspection and estimate includes walking you through the material options that genuinely fit your home, style, and budget — no pressure, no upselling. We serve homeowners across Ballwin, Ellisville, Wildwood, Chesterfield, and all of West St. Louis County. Call us at (636) 317-5023 and we'll help you choose a roof you'll be happy with for decades.
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