If you’re thinking about getting a new roof, you might be wondering whether roll roofing is better than shingles. The answer isn’t straightforward—there are pros and cons for both types of roofing—but here’s what you need to know before making a decision.

How is roll roofing compared to traditional shingles

Roll roofing and traditional shingles are different types of roof coverings with their own unique characteristics.

Roll roofing is typically made from asphalt or modified bitumen, while traditional shingles can be made from various materials such as asphalt, wood, metal, or slate. Roll roofing is usually easier and faster to put on, but shingles come in a wider range of styles and colors, making them more flexible in terms of how they look.

Most of the time, traditional shingles last longer and are more resistant to things like hail, wind, and UV light. However, roll roofing is typically more affordable in terms of material costs, making it a more cost-effective option for small-scale projects or projects with limited budgets.

Roll roofing is specifically designed for low-slope or flat roofs, while traditional shingles are suitable for a wider range of roof slopes.

Both roll roofing and shingles require regular maintenance, but shingles may require more frequent inspections, cleanings, and repairs.

Most of the time, traditional shingles are more resistant to fire and weather than roll roofing.

When considering the environmental impact, some types of shingles, such as wood shingles, may be considered more environmentally friendly compared to roll roofing.

What are the major differences between roll roofing and traditional shingles?

Purpose

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing is typically used on low-slope or flat roofs, such as those found on sheds, garages, or porches. It provides a simple and cost-effective solution for waterproofing these types of roofs.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles are used on roofs with steeper slopes and are commonly seen on residential homes. They provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing roofing option.

Appearance

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing typically has a utilitarian appearance, with a smooth surface and limited color options. It may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as traditional shingles.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles come in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors, providing more options for customization and enhancing the overall appearance of a roof.

Longevity

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing generally has a shorter lifespan compared to traditional shingles, typically lasting around 5 to 10 years, depending on the quality of the materials and installation.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles are known for their durability and can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years or more, depending on the type of shingle and environmental factors.

Costs

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing is generally more affordable than traditional shingles in terms of upfront costs. However, it may require more frequent replacement over time, which can increase long-term costs.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles tend to have higher upfront costs compared to roll roofing but may offer better long-term value due to their longer lifespan and durability.

Colors

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing typically has limited color options, often limited to shades of black, white, or gray.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles offer a wide range of color options, allowing for more design flexibility and customization to match the aesthetic of a home.

Installation

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing is relatively easy and quick to install, as it typically comes in large rolls that can be easily rolled out and nailed down.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles require more labor-intensive installation, with individual shingles being laid and nailed down one by one, which can take longer to complete.

Durability

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing is generally less durable compared to traditional shingles, as it is more susceptible to damage from UV rays, moisture, and foot traffic.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles are known for their durability and resistance to UV rays, moisture, and foot traffic, making them a more long-lasting option.

Fire and weather resistance

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing may have lower fire and weather resistance compared to traditional shingles, as it is typically made of asphalt or modified bitumen, which can be more vulnerable to fire and extreme weather conditions.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles, especially those made of asphalt or fiberglass, are typically more fire-resistant and can withstand various weather conditions, including wind, rain, and snow.

Environmental impact

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing is generally not considered as environmentally friendly as traditional shingles, as it may not be as recyclable or sustainable.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles, especially those made of materials like asphalt, can be recycled and have more environmentally friendly options available, such as those made from recycled materials or those with higher energy efficiency ratings.

Maintenance requirements

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing may require more frequent maintenance, such as periodic resealing or patching, due to its shorter lifespan and lower durability.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles typically require minimal maintenance, such as occasional cleaning and inspection, and may not need replacement as frequently as roll roofing.

Waterproofing

• Roll roofing: Roll roofing provides good waterproofing capabilities when properly installed, as it is designed to create a watertight seal on low-slope or flat roofs.
• Traditional shingles: Traditional shingles also offer excellent waterproofing capabilities when installed correctly on roofs with steeper slopes. They are designed to shed water effectively and keep the underlying structure dry.

Table: Pros and cons of roll roofing vs traditional shingles

Pros	Roll Roofing	Traditional Shingles
Easy and quick installation	Yes	No
Suitable for low-slope or flat roofs	Yes	No
Lower material costs	Yes	No
Fewer material waste	Yes	No
Can be used as a temporary or short-term roofing solution	Yes	No
Versatile in color options	Limited	Extensive
Provides a continuous waterproof barrier	Yes	Yes
Good fire resistance	Yes	Yes
Lower labor costs	Yes	No
Can be installed over existing roofs	Yes	Yes
Requires minimal maintenance	Yes	Yes
Good for DIY or small-scale projects	Yes	Yes

Cons	Roll Roofing	Traditional Shingles
Limited longevity	Yes	No
Limited aesthetic options	Yes	No
Less durability	Yes	No
Less weather resistance	Yes	No
May not be suitable for steep roofs	Yes	No
May not meet local building codes for residential applications	Yes	No
Requires professional installation for long-term use	Yes	Yes
Limited warranty options	Yes	No
Less environmentally friendly	Yes	No
May not be suitable for high-end or luxury homes	Yes	No

Pros and cons of roll roofing

Pros of roll roofing

• Affordability: Roll roofing is generally more affordable compared to traditional shingles, making it a cost-effective option for small-scale projects or budget-conscious homeowners.
• Easy installation: Roll roofing is relatively easy to install, making it a suitable option for DIY projects or for contractors looking for a quick and simple roofing solution.
• Suitable for low-slope roofs: Roll roofing is designed for use on low-slope or flat roofs, making it a viable option for roofs with pitches that are not suitable for traditional shingles.
• Lightweight: Roll roofing is lightweight, which can be an advantage for certain applications where weight is a concern, such as in some mobile homes or sheds.
• Availability: Roll roofing is widely available at most home improvement stores, making it accessible for purchase and installation.

Cons of roll roofing

• Limited lifespan: Roll roofing typically has a shorter lifespan compared to traditional shingles, ranging from 5 to 10 years on average, depending on the quality of materials and installation.
• Limited aesthetic options: Roll roofing typically has a utilitarian appearance and limited color options, which may not be suitable for homeowners seeking a more decorative or customized look for their roof.
• Less durability: Roll roofing may be less durable compared to traditional shingles, as it is thinner and more susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as hail, wind, and UV exposure.
• Maintenance requirements: Roll roofing may require more frequent maintenance, such as periodic recoating with sealants or coatings, to ensure its performance and longevity.
• Limited application: Roll roofing is not suitable for roofs with steeper slopes, as it is designed for low-slope or flat roofs only, which may limit its versatility for certain roofing projects.
• Lower weather resistance: Roll roofing may have lower weather resistance compared to traditional shingles, as it may be more prone to leaks and damage from heavy rains, snow, or extreme weather conditions.

Pros and cons of shingles

Pros of shingles

• Aesthetic options: Traditional shingles offer a wide range of styles, colors, and textures, allowing for more design flexibility and customization to match the desired look of a home or building.
• Longevity: High-quality traditional shingles can have a longer lifespan compared to roll roofing, ranging from 15 to 30 years or more, depending on the material and installation quality.
• Durability: Traditional shingles are generally thicker and more durable compared to roll roofing, providing better resistance against environmental factors such as hail, wind, and UV exposure.
• Higher weather resistance: Traditional shingles are designed to shed water effectively, making them more resistant to leaks and water damage compared to roll roofing, especially in areas with heavy rain or snowfall.
• Versatility: Traditional shingles can be used on a wide range of roof slopes, from low-slope to steep-slope roofs, making them suitable for a variety of roofing applications.

Cons of shingles

• Higher costs: Traditional shingles are typically more expensive compared to roll roofing, both in terms of materials and installation costs, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious homeowners or projects.
• More complex installation: Installing traditional shingles requires more skill and expertise compared to roll roofing, involving multiple layers and techniques, which may require professional installation for optimal performance.
• Heavier weight: Traditional shingles are generally heavier compared to roll roofing, which may require additional structural support or reinforcement for some roofs, adding to the overall cost and complexity of the installation.
• Maintenance requirements: Traditional shingles may require periodic maintenance, such as cleaning, inspection, and repair or replacement of damaged shingles, to ensure their performance and longevity.
• Environmental impact: The production and disposal of traditional shingles can have a higher environmental impact compared to roll roofing, as they are typically made from asphalt, a non-renewable resource, and may contribute to landfill waste.
• Availability of styles: While traditional shingles offer a wide range of styles and options, some unique or specialty styles may not be as readily available compared to roll roofing.

Which type of roof covering is better: roll roofing or shingles?

Roll roofing may be a better choice in certain situations, such as:

• Low-slope or flat roofs: Roll roofing is specifically designed for low-slope or flat roofs and may be a more appropriate option for such roof configurations where traditional shingles may not be suitable.
• Budget constraints: Roll roofing is generally more affordable compared to traditional shingles, making it a cost-effective option for small-scale projects or projects with limited budgets.
• DIY projects: Roll roofing is relatively easy to install, which can make it a viable option for DIY projects or for contractors looking for a quick and simple roofing solution.

On the other hand, traditional shingles may be a better choice in other situations, such as:

• Steeper-slope roofs: Traditional shingles are designed for a wider range of roof slopes, including steeper slopes, making them suitable for a variety of roofing applications.
• Aesthetic considerations: Traditional shingles offer a wider range of styles, colors, and textures, providing more options for achieving desired aesthetics and customization.
• Longer lifespan: High-quality traditional shingles generally have a longer lifespan compared to roll roofing, which may be a consideration for those seeking a more durable and long-lasting roofing option.
• Higher weather resistance: Traditional shingles are typically more resistant to environmental factors such as hail, wind, and UV exposure compared to roll roofing, which may be important in areas with harsh weather conditions.

What are the costs of installing roll roofing vs. shingles?

Materials

When it comes to the cost of materials, roll roofing is usually less expensive than traditional shingles.

Roll roofing is typically made from asphalt or modified bitumen, which are generally less expensive materials compared to the various types of shingles available on the market, such as asphalt, wood, metal, or slate shingles. The cost of roll roofing can range from $0.50 to $3 per square foot, depending on the quality of the material and brand.

Traditional shingles come in various materials and styles, with varying costs. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable type of shingles, with costs ranging from $0.80 to $3 per square foot.

Wood, metal, and slate shingles tend to be more expensive, with costs ranging from $4 to $15 per square foot or more, depending on the material and brand.

Labor

Labor costs for installing roll roofing or shingles can also vary depending on location, the complexity of the project, and contractor rates. Roll roofing is relatively simple to install and may be suitable for DIY projects, which can save on labor costs.

However, if you hire a professional contractor for installation, labor costs can range from $2.50 to $5.50 per square foot, depending on the region and complexity of the project.

The total cost of a roof, which includes materials and labor, usually averages around $3,200 to $12,000 per roof.

When compared to roll roofing, shingle installation usually takes more work because it involves multiple layers, complicated techniques, and extra steps like nailing or stapling each shingle.

Labor costs for shingle installation can range from $3 to $8 per square foot, depending on the region and complexity of the project.

This leaves the total average cost of replacing a roof at around $6,000 to $18,000.

What are the differences in the installation processes for roll roofing and shingles?

Roll roofing is typically used for low-slope or flat roofs with slopes of 2:12 or less. Traditional shingles, on the other hand, can be put on a wider range of roof slopes, even ones that are steeper.

Roll roofing is applied in large sheets or rolls, typically measuring 36 inches wide. It is usually attached to the roof deck with nails, staples, or glue, and it is overlapped and sealed to make a waterproof barrier that goes all the way around.

On the other hand, shingles are separate pieces that are put on in rows that overlap, starting at the bottom of the roof and working their way up. Each shingle is held in place with a nail.

Before roll roofing is put on a roof, an underlayment, like asphalt-soaked felt or a synthetic material, is usually put on top of the roof deck. This provides additional waterproofing and protection.

Traditional shingles may also require an underlayment, but the type and thickness of the underlayment may vary depending on the specific shingle material and local building codes.

Most people think that roll roofing is easier and faster to install than shingles because it uses larger sheets or rolls that are put on in one continuous motion. Shingle installation, on the other hand, involves carefully aligning, cutting, and putting down each shingle, which may take more time and effort.

Flashing, which is the material used to seal joints and transitions on the roof, is an important aspect of both roll roofing and shingle installation. However, the specific flashing requirements and techniques may vary between roll roofing and shingles, depending on the materials used, the roof design, and local building codes.

Proper ventilation is essential for a healthy and long-lasting roof. Both roll roofing and shingle installation may require the installation of vents or other ventilation components, but the specific requirements and installation methods may differ based on the type of roof covering.

How long do roll roofing and shingles typically last?

Roll roofing generally has a shorter lifespan compared to shingles. On average, roll roofing can last between 5 and 10 years, although some higher-quality roll roofing materials may last up to 15 years with proper maintenance and favorable weather conditions.

However, roll roofing may be more susceptible to wear and tear, damage from UV exposure, and other environmental factors due to its thinner and less durable composition.

Depending on what they are made of, traditional shingles may last longer than roll roofing.

For example, asphalt shingles, which are the most commonly used type of shingles, can last between 15 and 30 years or more, depending on the quality of the shingles, climate conditions, and maintenance practices.

Other types of shingles, such as wood shingles, metal shingles, or slate shingles, can have even longer lifespans, often ranging from 30 to 100 years or more.

Can roll roofing and shingles be used on all types of roofs?

Roll roofing is typically used for low-slope or flat roofs with slopes of 2:12 or less. It is not commonly used on steep-slope roofs due to its design and installation requirements.

Roll roofing may be a suitable option for roofs with minimal slope, such as sheds, garages, or small residential additions. However, it may not be appropriate for roofs with steeper slopes or complex roof designs.

Traditional shingles are designed to be used on a wider range of roof slopes, including both low-slope and steep-slope roofs. Asphalt shingles, which are the most common type of shingles, can be used on slopes as low as 2:12 and are suitable for most residential roofs.

Other types of shingles, such as wood shingles, metal shingles, or slate shingles, may also be used on various roof slopes depending on their specific installation requirements and manufacturer’s guidelines.

How does the slope of the roof affect the installation of roll roofing and shingles?

On low-slope roofs, roll roofing is installed in large sheets or rolls and is typically fastened to the roof deck using nails, staples, or adhesives. The roll roofing is overlapped and sealed to create a continuous waterproof barrier. The lower slope of the roof makes it easier to put on the roll roofing material and make sure it sticks well to the roof surface.

When installing shingles on low-slope roofs, you may need to take extra steps to make sure water runs off properly and keep water from getting in.

This could mean using a special underlayment, adding more layers of shingles, or using a different method of installation to fit the roof’s lower slope.

On roofs with a steep slope, the shingles are put on in rows that overlap, starting at the bottom and working up. Each shingle is held in place with a nail. The steeper slope of the roof allows gravity to aid in shedding water and helps shingles interlock and stay in place.

How can I find a qualified contractor to install roll roofing and shingles?

To find a qualified contractor for roll roofing or shingles, you can use online directories like bighomeprojects.com. Research and interview potential contractors, check their credentials, get multiple quotes, ask for references, talk to them, look over contracts and warranties, and make sure they have the right permits.

In addition to using online directories like bighomeprojects.com, you can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had roofing work done in the past.

It’s important to do thorough research on potential contractors, including checking their licensing, insurance, and certifications.

You can also find out about the quality of their work by reading reviews and looking at their portfolio of past work.

You can compare prices and services offered by different contractors and their quotes if you get more than one.

Interviewing potential contractors can help you gauge their communication skills, professionalism, and expertise.

Which one is easier to install?

Most people think that roll roofing is easier and faster to put on than shingles.

Roll roofing comes in large sheets or rolls that can be applied in a continuous manner, often with simple fastening methods such as nails, staples, or adhesives.

This can make the installation process relatively straightforward and less labor-intensive.

On the other hand, installing shingles requires that each one be lined up, cut, and put in place in overlapping rows.

This can take longer and may require more skill and experience to get the right alignment and a result that looks professional.

Shingles also typically require more complex fastening methods, such as nailing each shingle separately.

Can you use rolled roofing on a house?

Roll roofing is typically used on low-slope or flat roofs, such as those commonly found on commercial buildings, sheds, or garages.

While it is technically possible to use roll roofing on a house with a low-slope or flat roof, it may not be the most common or recommended choice for residential applications.

Traditional shingles, on the other hand, are the most common type of roof covering used on residential homes with sloped roofs.

Shingles are available in various styles, colors, and materials and are designed to withstand different weather conditions, making them a popular choice for residential roofing.

Other interesting articles:

• What is Rhino Roofing Underlayment? (How it’s Different from Traditional Synthetic)
• What is Roll Roofing? (Basics, Benefits, and Costs)
• Does Roof Qualify for Bonus Depreciation? (Section 179 Deduction, Bonus Depreciation, and More)
• Is Roofing Qualified Improvement Property? (Bonus Depreciation and Tax Deductions You Need to Know)