No matter how you slice it replacement of your older roof is going to be a chore and a costly one at that.

Various materials will cost more or less than others, and into the bargain, some which are more difficult to work with will be more costly to install.

Asphalt roofing wonderfully workable and is the most approved in any region of the world unless the restrictions are of a historical nature.

It is the most widely used material due to its lower cost and resilience. Asphalt is the most low priced of all roofing materials and can make a unique impression with the many colors that are available now for your use.

Metal is another popular choice in roofing, particularly when homes are newer but built in other styles such as Victorian or farm and ranch style.

Metal roofing is available in a wide assortment of very plain to very ornate and will give a unique and distinctive look to your roof. It can easily be painted to any color that you like.

One of the newer roofing choices is the application of Fiber.

Very strong and durable it comes in a wide array of textures and colors and is an excellent means to surface an ocean side home where the materials used for roofing need to stand up well to high salt content and high winds.

It is recommended as well for very hot humid environments where the air is heavy.

It is also harder to repair and is very heavy so the roof may need reinforced.
Comparing the more Typical roofing.

Asphalt, and metal roofing materials are easy to install, are very lightweight, and are extremely easy to repair.

Fiber Cement, while being a relatively easy install is also very heavy and will require the installation of reinforced supports to hold the roof.

It can occasionally break and when it does is extraordinarily difficult to repair.
How long will the roof last?

An asphalt roof may last as long as 25 years, while steel roofs should ideally last for twenty to fifty years and usually will offer a lifetime warranty when you install it.

Asphalt may have its particular foibles and problems, and no it won’t last a lifetime, however it is easier to repair and far less costly to install.. A simple tin roof, properly maintained, will last over 100 years.