If you’re a homeowner, you know that at some point you’re going to need to replace your roof when it’s time to do so. Since roof replacements aren’t cheap, you want to be sure that your new roof in Bellevue is going to last for decades to come. There are many types of roofs to choose from, as well as many different kinds of roofing materials. Here are a few of the most common roofing shingles on the market today. 
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles used to be the most popular roofing material until composition shingles came along. These shingles are classic, elegant, and bring warmth to any home’s exterior. In areas where moisture levels are low, these shingles can last for 50 years or more. Conversely, wood shingles won’t last as long in areas that are consistently wet. To keep them in tiptop shape, wood shingles need to be maintained and guarded against rot, mold, and insect damage. Since wood is not naturally fire resistant, these shingles need to be fire treated.
Composition Shingles
Versatile and affordable, composition shingles, also known as asphalt shingles, are the most popular roofing material used today. Composition shingles are usually composed of these core ingredients: asphalt, fiberglass, and stone aggregate. These shingles are available in a range of grades from basic to high end—the pricier options offer features such as embedded metals that prevent moss growth. In general, composition shingles tend to be cost effective, extremely durable, and fire resistant. Unfortunately, composition roofs have relatively short lifespans: about 20 years, give or take.
Clay Tiles
A distinguishable feature of Italian, Spanish, and Southwestern homes, clay is ideal in arid regions, or in places that have more warm days than cold. These tiles can be quite durable and last a long time, and they’re naturally fire resistant. If you live in an area where storms and hail are common, clay is not the roofing material for you.
Metal Roofing
Popular on commercial buildings, metal is a great choice for your home. This roofing material has a long lifespan, as well as being low maintenance, extremely durable, and fire resistant.
Synthetic Shingles
Synthetic shingles can either be made of plastic, rubber, or recycled materials, and are made to look like wood shake or stone tiles. They’re durable and are a cost-effective alternative to natural roofing materials.