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When you are looking into roofing materials - whether you are building a new home, looking into a major remodel of the exterior of your property or you need to make repairs after a major storm or other disaster - chances are good that you'll be a bit surprised by just how many varieties are going to be offered to you. Given the wide variety of roofing materials that are available to you, it's a good idea to take some hints from the pros.

The standard asphalt shingle is always going to be an option when you are looking for a simple way to cover your roof - something that's standard. When you're looking into asphalt shingles, you're going to find that the standard, three-tab shingle is the least expensive option. You'll also find that there are usually guarantees on the roofing material that will assure you that your shingles are going to last a good twenty years or more, and that you're able to choose from a wide variety of solid colors and blends. In other words, you'll have variety, but your roof is going to look a lot like that on every other house.

Good contractors don't just use standard asphalt shingles when they're taking on a roofing project, and if they are going to be doing your roof, you might want to discuss the most basic upgrade to an architectural shingle. These shingles are thicker and the layers are staggered; overall, they look more substantial. These shingles are going to add a bit of style that sets your home apart without adding a lot to the cost of your roofing project.

While architectural shingles in some colors look a lot like slate - from a distance - or like wood shakes. A wood shingle roof that weathers helps to ensure that your home will look like it's always been a part of the landscape and that roofs that are made with rougher, thicker wood shakes that add even more character to your home. There are a couple of drawbacks to wood shingles and shakes; first, they cost a bit more. The other drawback is that they require more maintenance than other roofing materials.

A great option for those who love the look of wood shingles and shakes is to take a look at the so-called fakes. In areas where there is a risk of fire (think California and other areas where wildfires spread) and there are local codes in place that require roofing materials to be fireproof, these "fake shakes" are able to look like wood and meet that requirement.

By taking the time to talk with professionals when you are looking into roofing materials, you'll find that you're able to get more information about your options - and the pros and cons of each of them. Doing so will enable you to know that you're getting a beautiful roof that is long lasting, will not break the bank, and will meet all of your needs.