What Roofing Material Lasts the Longest? A Guide for Ohio Homeowners

When you're putting a new roof on your home, barn, or public building here in Ohio, one of the biggest questions is: how long will it last? From the historic slate roofs of Upper Arlington to the weather-worn barns of Darke County, Ohio has a rich mix of roofing materials suited to different needs and environments. Let's take a personal look at which materials are built to stand the test of time.

1. Slate Roofing – 75 to 100+ Years

In areas like Upper Arlington, many homes still showcase original slate roofs that have lasted for generations. These roofs not only add timeless charm and character to historic homes but also provide unbeatable durability.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and weather-resistant
• Fireproof and low maintenance
• Can last well beyond a lifetime

Cons:

• High upfront cost
• Heavy—may require additional structural support

2. Metal Roofing – 40 to 70+ Years

Travel across Ohio farmland—from Darke County in the west to Morgan County in the east—and you’ll find metal roofs everywhere. Their strength and longevity make them the go-to roofing material for barns and outbuildings that need to endure decades of weather.

Even well-known local attractions like Young's Jersey Dairy in Clark County use metal roofing on multiple buildings, knowing it provides lasting durability and minimal upkeep.

Pros:

• Resistant to high winds, hail, and fire
• Lightweight and energy-efficient
• Long lifespan with minimal maintenance

Cons:

• Can be noisy in heavy rain without proper insulation
• Higher initial cost compared to asphalt shingles

3. Cedar Shake Roofing – 30 to 50 Years

Cedar shake roofing has deep roots in Ohio’s architectural history. Many early homes, barns, and public buildings used cedar for its availability and natural insulation. Today, cedar shake continues to be used for its rustic beauty and eco-friendliness, especially on cottages and homes aiming to preserve an authentic, historic look.

Pros:

• Natural, rustic aesthetic
• Renewable and biodegradable material
• Insulating properties keep homes cooler in summer, warmer in winter

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to avoid rot and pests
• Not as fire-resistant unless treated

4. Synthetic Roofing (Brava, Composite Tiles) – 40 to 70+ Years

One of the fastest-growing trends in roofing across Ohio—from state parks to suburban homes—is synthetic roofing materials like Brava tiles. These composite materials mimic the look of slate, cedar shake, and clay, but at a fraction of the weight and with less upkeep.

You’ll often find Brava or other synthetic roofing options in local and state parks, historic restoration projects, and homes where homeowners want the look of natural materials with fewer maintenance headaches.

Pros:

• Lightweight and eco-friendly
• Highly durable with low maintenance
• Mimics premium materials like slate or shake
• Great for both residential and commercial use

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than asphalt (but less than natural slate or shake)
• Limited availability in some areas

5. Clay & Concrete Tiles – 50 to 100 Years

While more commonly used in warmer climates, clay and concrete tiles can be seen in custom home builds throughout Ohio, particularly in neighborhoods with a Mediterranean or Spanish aesthetic. These tiles require strong structural support but offer impressive longevity.

Pros:

• Long lifespan with minimal maintenance
• Stylish and fire-resistant
• Great for upscale designs

Cons:

• Heavy and costly
• Not suited to every architectural style

6. Asphalt Shingles – 20 to 30 Years

Still the most popular roofing choice in Ohio, asphalt shingles offer solid performance and a wide variety of style options. Especially in urban neighborhoods of Cleveland, Columbus, and Dayton, asphalt shingles remain the go-to for affordability and ease of installation.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Easy to repair and replace
• Variety of color and style options

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan than other materials
• Can be damaged by wind, hail, or extreme temperatures

Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Ohio Home

The best roofing material for your home depends on your goals. If you’re restoring a historic property in Upper Arlington, slate or synthetic may be ideal. If you’re looking for longevity on a farmhouse in Darke County, metal roofing is a proven choice. In cities like Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, or Dayton, we help homeowners choose materials that match both their home’s design and local weather conditions.

At American Way Exteriors, we’ve worked with every type of roofing material across Ohio. Whether you're drawn to the timeless beauty of cedar shake, the durability of metal, or the versatility of synthetic options like Brava, our team is ready to help you choose a roof that fits your needs and lasts for decades.

📞 Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation! Proudly serving homeowners in Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, and beyond.

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