Columbus’s unpredictable weather is tough on roofs. From the icy grip of winter storms to the blazing heat of summer, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. It also shapes your home’s style, boosts energy efficiency, and adds lasting value. But with so many materials available, finding the perfect fit can feel overwhelming.
Whether you live in the historic charm of German Village or the wooded beauty of Dublin, choosing the right roofing material is key to ensuring your home stays protected—and looks great—through every season. At Ratliff Contracting, a trusted Columbus roofing company, we help homeowners make informed decisions about their roofing needs. Here’s your guide to the best materials for Columbus homes.
Top Roofing Materials for Columbus Homes
Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and Dependable
- Lifespan: 15–30 years
- Why It’s a Classic Choice: Asphalt shingles are a favorite for Columbus homeowners, offering affordability, versatility, and durability. They come in a wide range of colors and styles to complement any home and handle Ohio’s summer storms and icy winters with ease.
- Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners who want dependable performance and attractive curb appeal.
- Maintenance Tip: Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles after severe weather to prevent costly repairs down the line.
As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, Ratliff Contracting provides expert asphalt shingle installations backed by industry-leading warranties for added peace of mind.
Cedar Shake: Rustic Beauty with Natural Insulation
- Lifespan: 20–40 years with proper care
- Why It’s Unique: Cedar shake roofs bring a warm, rustic charm to homes, blending beautifully with natural surroundings. Found in neighborhoods like Dublin’s Muirfield Village, they also provide excellent natural insulation for Columbus’s chilly winters.
- Best For: Homeowners who value aesthetic appeal and eco-friendly materials.
- Maintenance Tip: Treat cedar shakes regularly to protect against moisture, pests, and rot, and schedule routine inspections to maintain their lifespan.
Slate Roofing: Timeless Elegance and Durability
- Lifespan: 50+ years, with many lasting over a century
- Why It’s Premium: Slate roofs are a hallmark of historic districts like German Village and Bexley. Known for their natural beauty and extreme durability, slate roofs withstand hail, fire, and wind while delivering timeless elegance.
- Best For: High-end or historic homes where aesthetics and longevity are top priorities.
- Maintenance Tip: Ensure your home’s structure can support the weight of slate before installation. Schedule occasional inspections to preserve its integrity.
Tailoring Your Roof to Columbus’s Climate
Columbus homeowners face everything from icy winters to heavy spring rains and summer hailstorms. Here’s how different materials perform in our local climate:
- Energy Efficiency: Metal and tile roofs reflect sunlight, reducing cooling costs during the summer.
- Storm Resilience: Asphalt shingles, slate, and standing seam metal roofs are tough against hail and high winds.
- Longevity: Slate and metal roofs provide the best value for long-term durability.
What Makes a Columbus Roofing Company Stand Out?
Choosing the right material is only part of the equation. Proper installation and maintenance are essential to maximizing your roof’s performance and lifespan. At Ratliff Contracting, we offer:
- Expert Installations: Our team is trained to install everything from asphalt shingles to slate with precision and care.
- Industry-Leading Warranties: As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, we offer some of the strongest warranties available.
- Local Knowledge: We understand the unique challenges of Columbus’s climate and the specific needs of neighborhoods like Worthington, German Village, and Dublin.
Let’s Build Your Perfect Roof
Your roof is one of the most important investments in your home. Whether you’re upgrading to a more durable material or replacing an aging roof, Ratliff Contracting is here to help.
Ready to get started? Call us at (614) 702-ROOF or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation. Let’s create a roof that’s as beautiful as it is functional—designed to protect your home for years to come.
Explore More with Ratliff
- Residential gutter installation: Protect your home from water damage.
- Siding upgrades: Enhance your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency.
External Resource: Learn more about the benefits of energy-efficient roofing at Energy.gov.