Whether you’ve already reached out to roofing contractors in St. George for installing your new system or are planning to, you’re likely weighing which material to choose. It’s an important decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, since the roof type shapes your home’s character, performance, and ownership costs in ways that extend far beyond curb appeal.
The choice typically comes down to three proven options: asphalt shingles, modern standing-seam metal systems, and EPDM rubber, each with distinct advantages and ideal applications. So what exactly do you need to consider when selecting your roof material? To help you make a decision you won’t regret, let’s explore the key considerations.
How to choose a roof type?
Whether you’re dealing with roofing in the first home you own or replacing an outdated system, selecting the right material requires more than scanning a price list or choosing a color you like. Winter affects every roofing system, but they do interact differently with the weather depending on the material, structure, ventilation, and architectural style. Asphalt shingles, standing-seam metal, and EPDM rubber each have their place, it’s just important to match the right one to your specific situation.
Here’s what you need to consider to make a choice that protects your investment for decades:
What is the best roof for the money?
New roofing is a major expense for most, so it’s natural that a budget will drive most decisions. Each of the three most common materials offers strong value, but they do it differently. Here’s how each material stacks up financially:
Asphalt shingles
If you’re looking for reliable protection without a steep upfront cost, shingles are a solid choice. They have options that are quite affordable, and they come in enough styles and colors to match just about any home. For homeowners seeking the best roofing material for the money, shingles usually prove to be the best option.
EPDM rubber
Low-slope and flat roofs need something different, and that’s where EPDM rubber shines. The membrane goes down quickly, creates a watertight seal, and requires minimal maintenance over the years. It’s an efficient, cost-effective solution for structures where traditional solutions won’t work.
Standing-seam metal
These types of systems may be the priciest at installation, but it pays off when you consider longevity. These roofs routinely last over 50 years, which means you’re likely never replacing it again. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, the higher initial cost often balances out through decades of durability and minimal replacement needs.
Which roof material lasts the longest?
How long your system lasts matters just as much as what it costs upfront. All three materials hold up well when installed properly, but they age differently and need different levels of attention over the years. Here’s how they compare:
Standing-seam metal
Metal systems are known for exceptional longevity. The concealed fasteners keep weather from wearing down the panels, and the material itself shrugs off wind, snow, and rain without breaking down. If you want a system you’ll never have to replace again, metal is your best bet.
Asphalt shingles
Quality shingles typically give you 17 to 25 years of solid performance. Modern manufacturing has made them much tougher against wind and moisture than older versions, so they’re still a reliable choice for most homes. Good attic ventilation can push them toward the higher end of that range.
EPDM rubber
For low-slope or flat sections, EPDM delivers impressive staying power. The seamless membrane handles standing water, UV rays, and temperature swings without deteriorating. With basic maintenance, these installations routinely last for decades.
What roof type is best for a modern house?
Modern architecture often features clean lines, bold geometry, and sleek finishes, and your roof should work with that aesthetic, not against it. Beyond overall style, the right material also depends on your home’s shape, pitch, and other structural details. Here’s how the three materials compare:
Asphalt shingles
Don’t assume shingles are too traditional for contemporary homes. Modern architectural shingles offer dimensional profiles that add visual depth, and the color range, from crisp charcoals to warm earth tones, complements modern siding and large windows beautifully.
Don’t assume shingles are too traditional for contemporary homes. Modern architectural options offer dimensional profiles that add visual depth, and the colors ranging from crisp charcoals to warm earth tones complement modern siding and large windows beautifully.
EPDM rubber
It might not be the showiest option, but EPDM is unbeatable for flat and low-slope roofs where other materials struggle. It suits minimalist aesthetics well, pairs cleanly with other materials, and handles transitions between sections without visual clutter.
Standing-seam metal
This one is the favorite for modern architecture, and it’s easy to see why. The crisp vertical seams create bold lines, and finishes pair beautifully with glass, wood, and stone. Standing-seam metal also works well with vaulted ceilings and high-end designs.
What type of roof is least likely to leak?
While leak prevention also depends on underlayment, ventilation, installation quality, and catching small roofing problems early, your material choice still matters. Each option offers strong protection:
Asphalt shingles
The overlapping design channels water down and off the surface naturally. Modern adhesive technology has also made shingles more resistant to wind-driven rain, and quality underlayment adds another layer of protection.
EPDM rubber
For flat and low-slope structures where water sits instead of running off, EPDM is tough to beat. It forms one continuous waterproof barrier, which eliminates seams where leaks usually start. This option was built specifically to handle standing water.
Standing-seam metal
Raised seams and concealed fasteners keep water away from vulnerable spots. Rain and snow slide right off the vertical ridges, and the interlocking panels hold tight even when coastal winds push moisture around. This truly is one of the most weather-resistant options available.
What is the lowest maintenance roof?
How much attention your roof needs over the years affects both your time and your budget. The good news is that all three materials are relatively low-upkeep when installed properly, though what maintenance looks like varies between them. Here’s how they compare:
Standing-seam metal
Metal wins the low-maintenance contest. The panels shed water and debris naturally, so there’s not much to worry about beyond occasional checks on accessories like snow guards or flashing. Many pick metal specifically because it does its job with almost no attention required.
EPDM rubber
The single-membrane design means fewer seams where problems can develop. Your main task is checking that edges stay sealed during annual inspections, but otherwise, it’s one of the most set-it-and-forget-it options available.
Asphalt shingles
Shingles need a bit more attention than the other two, but it’s still minimal. Quick visual checks and occasional debris removal keep them in shape, and the upside is that repairing individual shingles is straightforward and inexpensive when you spot it early.
Who are the most dependable roofing contractors in St. George?
Horch Roofing brings unmatched expertise to homeowners weighing the benefits of asphalt shingles, standing-seam metal, or EPDM rubber. No matter your needs, possibilities, or budget, our team helps you evaluate performance, appearance, and long-term value with clarity.
We pair our installations with seamless gutters and dedicated repair support to keep your property protected year-round. From start to finish, we tailor our recommendations to your home’s design and your specific goals.
Whether you’re located in the heart of St. George or closer to Marshall Point Lighthouse, we deliver solutions built to last. Reach out today to plan your upgrade with a team you can trust!