Asphalt shingles are by far the most widely used today. Approximately 90 percent of the houses are covered with asphalt shingles because of their weight and cost.  Asphalt shingles will weight between 240 and 400 pounds per hundred square feet, which is one of the reasons why removing the old roof is always recommended. Lighter roofing options include metal roofing at between 40 and 60 pounds per 100 square feet for aluminum and steel will average between 80 and 150 pounds per 100 square feet.

Durability Verses Cost

Asphalt shingles will generally last an average of 20 years and will cost between $50 and $150 per square, which is 100 square feet.  Installing a slate roof may cost up to $1,000 plus per square depending on average variables and skill needed for installation – however, the slate roof should last about 100 years or longer.
In addition, slate tile is considerably heavier than asphalt and could weigh up to 700 to 800 pounds per square, depending on thickness, and additional strengthening of the trusses may push the cost even higher.

In addition, slate tile is considerably heavier than asphalt and could weigh up to 700 to 800 pounds per square, depending on thickness, and additional strengthening of the trusses may push the cost even higher.

Other Conditions To Consider

Weather conditions- Return on Investment – and how long you expect to own your house or keep it in the family should all be considered.  Many of us give the most attention to appearance and not enough on other factors.  Let appearance be your last consideration as most roofing tiles / shingles come in many colors, textures, patterns, etc., so you won’t be giving up style regardless of which materials you choose.