For most pitched-roof homes in New York, architectural asphalt shingles ($3–$10/sq ft, 20–30 years) are the best value. Metal ($12–$18, 40–70 years) and slate ($20–$40, 75–100+ years) last far longer for more money. For flat roofs, EPDM ($5–$12) is the budget choice and TPO ($9–$14) the energy-efficient one.
Key takeaways
- Best value for pitched roofs: architectural asphalt shingles.
- Longest-lasting: slate (75–100+ years) and metal (40–70 years).
- Flat roofs: EPDM for budget, TPO for energy savings, mod-bit for foot traffic.
- Installer quality matters as much as the brand. Look for manufacturer-certified contractors.
In this guide
Roofing materials compared
| Material | Installed cost | Lifespan | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | $3–$10/sq ft | 20–30 yrs | Most pitched-roof homes | Choose wind-rated shingles near the coast |
| Metal | $12–$18/sq ft | 40–70 yrs | Long-term owners | Higher upfront cost |
| Slate | $20–$40/sq ft | 75–100+ yrs | Historic and high-end homes | Weight; needs a specialist |
| Tile | $15–$25/sq ft | 50+ yrs | Specific architectural styles | Heavy; structure must be checked |
| EPDM (flat) | $5–$12/sq ft | 20–30 yrs | Row homes, budgets | Dark surface absorbs heat |
| TPO (flat) | $9–$14/sq ft | 20–30 yrs | Energy savings, larger roofs | Install quality is critical |
| Modified bitumen (flat) | $9–$13/sq ft | 20–30 yrs | Roofs with foot traffic | Heavier; needs coating to be reflective |
| PVC (flat) | $10–$16/sq ft | 25–35 yrs | Restaurants, chemicals | Highest flat-roof cost |
Pitched roof materials
Asphalt shingles
The most common roof in Staten Island and Queens for good reason: affordable, durable, easy to repair and available in many colors. Architectural (dimensional) shingles look better and handle wind better than old 3-tab shingles. Learn the differences in types of asphalt shingles.
Metal
Standing-seam and metal shingle roofs shed snow, resist wind and can last 40–70 years. A great choice if you plan to stay in your home long-term.
Slate
The original New York roof on many historic buildings. Lasts a century or more but is heavy, expensive and needs a specialist. Common on brownstones and landmarked homes.
Tile
Clay and concrete tile suit specific architectural styles and last 50+ years, but the roof structure must be able to carry the weight.
Flat roof materials
Most Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens row homes have flat roofs. The main options are EPDM (rubber), the affordable workhorse; TPO, white and reflective with welded seams (see our TPO guide); modified bitumen, multi-ply and tough underfoot; and PVC, for restaurants and chemical exposure. Compare them in flat roof repair vs. replacement.
The best roofing brands
Material brand matters, but how it's installed matters more. A great shingle installed badly will fail early. That said, these are the manufacturers most trusted by roofers:
- Shingles: GAF, Owens Corning and CertainTeed are the leading US shingle makers. We install GAF as a GAF Master Elite® contractor, which lets us offer GAF system warranties of up to 50 years.
- Flat roof membranes: GAF, Firestone (Holcim), Carlisle and Johns Manville. We source TPO, EPDM and modified bitumen systems from these manufacturers.
- Skylights: Velux and Fakro are the most common brands we install and service.
When comparing quotes, ask which product line (not just which brand) is included, and whether the installer is certified by that manufacturer.
How to choose for your home
- Roof type: pitched roofs get shingles, metal, slate or tile; flat roofs get a membrane.
- How long you'll stay: under 15 years, shingles usually win on value; longer, consider metal.
- Building and neighborhood: landmarked buildings may need specific materials; heavy materials need a structural check.
- Energy: a white TPO roof keeps top floors cooler and meets NYC cool-roof rules.
- Budget: see real prices in our NYC roof replacement cost guide.
Not sure? We'll inspect your roof, explain the options that fit your house, and give you prices for each, with no upselling. Request a free estimate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best roofing material for New York weather?
For pitched roofs, wind-rated architectural asphalt shingles offer the best balance of cost and durability against nor'easters and freeze-thaw cycles; metal and slate last longer. For flat roofs, EPDM and TPO both perform well in NYC's climate.
What are the best roofing shingle brands?
GAF, Owens Corning and CertainTeed are the leading asphalt shingle manufacturers in the US. We install GAF shingles as a GAF Master Elite® contractor, which lets us offer GAF system warranties of up to 50 years.
What are the best flat roofing brands?
Leading commercial and flat roof membrane manufacturers include GAF, Firestone (Holcim), Carlisle and Johns Manville. We source from these manufacturers.
What is the longest-lasting roof?
Slate, which can last 75–100+ years. Metal (40–70 years) and tile (50+ years) are next. Asphalt shingles and flat membranes typically last 20–30 years.
Is metal roofing worth it in New York?
If you plan to stay in the home for decades, often yes: it sheds snow well and can outlast two or three shingle roofs. If you might sell within 10–15 years, shingles usually make more financial sense.
