Types of Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. The material you select affects how long your roof lasts, how much you spend on energy bills, how your home looks from the street, and how well your roof stands up to Wisconsin’s punishing freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and severe storms. Pierce Roofing has been helping Green Bay homeowners navigate this decision for over 29 years. As an Atlas PRO+ Platinum Select Contractor, we install every major roofing material type and provide honest, experience-based guidance on which option delivers the best value for your home, your budget, and your long-term goals. Below is an overview of every type of roofing material we install across Northeast Wisconsin, along with key comparisons to help you make an informed choice.

Asphalt shingles are installed on roughly 80% of American homes, and for good reason. They offer a strong balance of affordability, variety, and proven performance. Modern asphalt shingles come in two tiers: architectural (mid-range) and designer/luxury (premium). Architectural shingles are the most popular choice today, offering a dimensional, layered appearance with wind ratings up to 130 mph and lifespans of 25–30 years. As an Atlas PRO+ Platinum Select Contractor, Pierce Roofing specializes in Atlas roofing products including the impact-resistant StormMaster Slate and algae-resistant Pinnacle Pristine lines. Our Platinum tier status gives you access to extended warranty coverage that standard contractors cannot offer. Asphalt shingles remain the most budget-friendly roofing option for most Green Bay homes — contact us for a free, personalized estimate.

Metal roofing has surged in popularity among Wisconsin homeowners who want a roof they never have to replace again. A quality metal roof lasts 50 years or more with minimal maintenance, resists wind up to 140 mph, sheds snow efficiently to reduce ice dam risk, and reflects solar heat to lower cooling costs. Pierce Roofing installs three main types of metal roofing: standing seam (concealed fastener, premium look), corrugated panels (affordable, classic profile), and metal shingles (traditional appearance with metal durability). Metal roofing carries a higher upfront investment than asphalt, but its 50+ year lifespan makes the long-term cost per year of protection comparable — often less — making it one of the smartest investments a Wisconsin homeowner can make.

Flat roofing systems are essential for homes with low-slope sections, additions, garages, and commercial buildings. Pierce Roofing installs three proven flat roofing membranes: TPO (energy-efficient, heat-welded seams), EPDM (proven rubber membrane, excellent in cold climates), and modified bitumen (multi-layer waterproofing with foot-traffic resistance). Each system has distinct advantages depending on your building type, climate exposure, and performance priorities. With proper installation and maintenance, flat roofing systems deliver 20 to 30+ years of reliable waterproofing protection. Proper drainage design is critical for flat roofs in Wisconsin, where heavy snowfall and spring melt can cause ponding water damage.

Slate roofing is the pinnacle of residential roofing materials. Natural slate is quarried stone that can last 100 to 200 years, is completely fireproof, and develops a distinctive patina that only improves with age. While slate is uncommon in new Wisconsin construction due to its weight and cost, many historic Green Bay homes have existing slate roofs that need expert maintenance and repair. Synthetic slate provides the look of natural stone at roughly half the weight and cost, making it an attractive option for homeowners who want the premium slate aesthetic without the structural reinforcement requirements. Pierce Roofing handles both natural slate installation and repair as well as synthetic alternatives.

Tile roofing delivers exceptional durability and a distinctive look that sets your home apart. Clay tiles offer a warm Mediterranean aesthetic with permanent, kiln-fired color and a lifespan of 75–100+ years. Concrete tiles provide a similar look at a lower price point, with versatile profiles that can mimic clay, slate, or wood shake. Both materials are fire-resistant and energy-efficient. In Wisconsin, tile roofing requires freeze-thaw rated products and structural verification to handle the combined weight of tiles and snow loads. Pierce Roofing specifies the right tile products for our climate and ensures proper installation for lasting performance.

As one of a select group of Atlas PRO+ Platinum Select Contractors in Northeast Wisconsin, Pierce Roofing offers the full Atlas product line with extended warranty coverage. Atlas StormMaster Slate shingles deliver Class 4 impact resistance for Wisconsin’s severe hailstorms, while Pinnacle Pristine shingles feature 3M Scotchgard Protector to resist the black algae streaks that plague roofs in humid climates. Our Platinum tier status gives you access to Atlas's best warranty programs — coverage that standard installers simply cannot offer.

The best roofing material for your home depends on several factors that are unique to your situation:

• Budget: Asphalt shingles offer the lowest upfront cost. Metal and synthetic slate provide better long-term value. Natural slate and clay tile are premium investments.
• Climate: Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams, heavy snow, and severe storms demand materials that can handle thermal expansion, moisture, and wind. Metal and EPDM excel in cold climates. Tile and slate require freeze-thaw rated products.
• Home style: Colonial and traditional homes suit asphalt or slate. Modern and farmhouse designs pair well with metal. Mediterranean styles call for clay tile.
• Longevity goals: If you plan to stay in your home for 30+ years, metal or premium asphalt delivers the best value. If this is your forever home, slate or tile may justify the investment.
• HOA restrictions: Some Green Bay neighborhoods and HOAs restrict material choices. Check your covenants before selecting a material.

Pierce Roofing provides free consultations to walk through these factors with you. We’ll inspect your current roof, discuss your goals, and recommend the material that makes the most sense for your home. Call (920) 609-8304 or request an estimate online.