How to Choose the Right Roofing Material for Your Denver Home

1. Asphalt Shingles — Denver’s Reliable Standard

Alt text: Asphalt shingles on a Denver home roof installation by Ernie’s Roofing.

Asphalt shingles remain the most common roofing material in the Front Range, and for good reason.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to install

• Readily available in many styles and colors

• Proven durability in Denver’s four-season climate

• Compatible with both steep and moderate slopes

Cons:

• Average lifespan (20–30 years depending on quality)

• Vulnerable to large hail impacts

• Granule loss over time due to UV exposure

If you’re budget-conscious but still want a clean, reliable look, high-quality architectural shingles are the sweet spot. We typically recommend impact-resistant (IR) shingles, which can lower your insurance premiums.

2. Metal Roofing — Built for Hail and Snow

Alt text: Standing seam metal roof installed by Ernie’s Roofing in Littleton, CO.

Metal roofs have come a long way from the old barn-style look. They’re one of the toughest systems for Colorado homes and businesses.

Pros:

• Can last 50+ years

• Excellent snow shedding and fire resistance

• Lightweight, strong, and fully recyclable

• Low maintenance compared to asphalt

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

• Potential for noise during heavy rain or hail (solved with proper decking)

For homeowners tired of replacing roofs after every storm, a standing seam metal roof offers durability that often outlasts the home itself. It’s an investment, but it pays off long-term.

3. Tile Roofing — Style and Longevity

Alt text: Clay tile roofing on a Denver home by Ernie’s Roofing & Siding Gutter.

Tile roofs—whether clay, concrete, or synthetic—are a statement piece that adds both curb appeal and longevity.

Pros:

• Lifespan up to 75 years with proper maintenance

• Excellent heat and UV resistance

• Fireproof and environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Heavy—requires strong structural support

• More expensive than most materials

• Repairs can be tricky without the right experience

Denver’s historic neighborhoods like Park Hill and Wash Park often feature tile roofs that have stood for generations. When properly maintained, they can outlast three or four asphalt replacements.

4. Synthetic Roofing — The Modern Contender

Alt text: Synthetic slate shingles installed on a Denver home roof.

Synthetic materials like DaVinci Slate or Brava Tile mimic the look of high-end roofing without the weight or cost. They’re engineered to handle Denver’s climate challenges.

Pros:

• Impact- and fire-resistant

• Lightweight and low-maintenance

• Look just like slate, cedar, or tile

Cons:

• Higher cost than asphalt, but lower than real tile or slate

• Still relatively new—less long-term data

These are excellent for homeowners in Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, or anywhere you want that high-end look without the structural load of real tile or slate.

5. Flat Roof Systems — Common for Denver Additions and Commercial Buildings

Alt text: TPO flat roof installation on a Denver commercial property.

For low-slope or flat roofs—like garages, porches, or commercial buildings—we typically install:

• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Reflective and energy efficient

• EPDM (Rubber Roofing): Long-lasting and flexible

• Modified Bitumen: Proven and cost-effective

Each has its purpose depending on your building’s structure, drainage, and budget.