Understanding Roofing Materials: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right roofing materials is one of the most important decisions you will make as a homeowner or property manager. Your roof is the first line of defense against weather, temperature extremes, and environmental wear. At M&A Contracting, we have spent 18 years in business helping property owners throughout Buffalo, NY and surrounding areas navigate the wide range of roofing material options available today. Our experience as an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor gives us deep knowledge of the highest-performing products on the market, and we bring that expertise to every project we take on.
The roofing industry has evolved significantly in recent decades, with advances in material science producing products that last longer, resist damage more effectively, and offer greater energy efficiency. According to industry reports, the U.S. roofing market is valued at over $20 billion annually, driven by both new construction and the ongoing need for roof replacement on aging homes. With so many choices available, understanding the strengths and limitations of each material type is essential to making a sound investment.
Asphalt Shingles: The Most Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles remain the most widely installed roofing material in the United States, covering roughly 80 percent of residential roofs. Their popularity stems from a balance of affordability, durability, and aesthetic versatility. Three-tab shingles provide a clean, uniform appearance and serve as an economical option for budget-conscious homeowners. Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, offer a thicker profile with a textured look that mimics the appearance of natural slate or wood shake. These shingles typically carry manufacturer warranties ranging from 30 years to lifetime coverage.
As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we install premium asphalt shingle systems that are engineered for superior wind resistance, algae protection, and color retention. Homeowners in Amherst, Eggertsville, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Williamsville, Kenmore, & Depew, NY benefit from these advanced shingle technologies, especially given the variable weather patterns that can stress roofing systems throughout the year. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, which means we carefully inspect every shingle installation to ensure proper alignment, nail placement, and flashing integration before considering the job complete.
Metal Roofing: Durability and Longevity
Metal roofing has grown substantially in market share over the past decade, now representing approximately 17 percent of the residential roofing market. Available in steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc, metal roofs can last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance. Standing seam metal roofing features interlocking panels that create a watertight barrier, while metal shingles replicate the look of traditional roofing materials with the added benefit of extreme durability.
Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat, which can reduce cooling costs by up to 25 percent during summer months. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners in Amherst, Eggertsville, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Williamsville, Kenmore, & Depew, NY who want both performance and energy savings. At M&A Contracting, the owner is on site at every job to oversee proper installation techniques, including correct fastener spacing, thermal expansion allowances, and underlayment selection that are critical to the long-term performance of metal roofing systems.
Additional Roofing Material Options
Beyond asphalt and metal, several other roofing materials serve specific needs and architectural styles. We work with homeowners to evaluate options based on their property requirements, local building codes, and long-term goals. Here are some of the most common alternatives we encounter:
- Synthetic slate and shake provide the beauty of natural materials without the excessive weight or fragility, often lasting 50 years or more while requiring far less maintenance
- Clay and concrete tiles deliver exceptional longevity and fire resistance, making them ideal for Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture
- Wood shake offers a classic, rustic aesthetic with natural insulation properties, though it requires more maintenance and may face restrictions in certain fire-prone areas
- Flat roofing membranes including TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen are essential for low-slope commercial and residential applications where traditional shingles cannot be used
Our Commitment to Selecting the Right Materials
We believe that integrity drives every recommendation we make. Rather than pushing the most expensive option, we give fair prices for our customers and will help finance if we need to. Our goal is to match each property with the roofing material that delivers the best combination of performance, appearance, and value. We look over all our work with a thorough inspection process that ensures every component, from the drip edge to the ridge cap, meets our exacting standards.
With 18 years of hands-on experience serving communities across Amherst, Eggertsville, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Williamsville, Kenmore, & Depew, NY, M&A Contracting has built a reputation on doing things the right way. Whether you are considering a full roof replacement or simply exploring your options, we are here to provide honest guidance and expert installation that protects your home for decades to come.