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Roofs Wiki

The free roofing encyclopedia

140+ expert, independent guides on roofing materials, repair, costs, and finding a contractor.

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DIY Roofing Guides

• Replace damaged shingles
• Find & fix roof leaks
• Clean gutters safely
• Emergency roof repair

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Roofing Materials

• Asphalt Shingles — most popular
• Metal Roofing — 40-70 yr lifespan
• Tile Roofing — clay & concrete
• Slate Roofing — premium stone

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Commercial Systems

• TPO Roofing — energy-efficient
• EPDM Roofing — rubber membrane
• Built-Up Roofing — multi-layer
• Flat Roofs — low-slope

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Maintenance & Repair

• Inspection & maintenance
• Common roof problems
• Hail damage
• Repair vs. replacement

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Energy & Sustainability

• Cool Roofs — reflective
• Green Roofs — living roofs
• Solar Roofs — integrated solar
• Roof Insulation — thermal efficiency

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Costs & Buying

• How much a new roof costs
• Read a roofing estimate
• How long a roof lasts
• Signs you need a new roof

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Roofing Contractor Directory

Compare top-rated, BBB-accredited roofers in 20 major US & Canadian cities — ranked by accreditation and experience.

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Popular guides

Starting a Roofing Business

Complete 2026 guide: licensing, startup costs, and marketing.

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Choosing a Contractor

How to find, vet, and hire reliable roofing professionals.

<a class="rw-card__more" href="/How_to_Choose_a_Roofing_Contractor">How to choose →</a>

Commercial Roofing in Canada

Climate considerations and system selection for Canadian buildings.

<a class="rw-card__more" href="/Choosing_the_Right_Commercial_Roofing_System_in_Canada">Canadian guide →</a>

Quick reference

Material	Lifespan	Cost range	Best applications
Asphalt Shingles	20-30 years	$3-7 / sq ft	Residential, budget-conscious projects
Metal Roofing	40-70 years	$7-15 / sq ft	Durability, energy efficiency
Clay / concrete tile	50-100 years	$10-18 / sq ft	Hot climates, Mediterranean style
Slate Roofing	75-100+ years	$15-30 / sq ft	Premium homes, historical restoration
TPO membrane	15-25 years	$5-10 / sq ft	Commercial flat roofs
EPDM rubber	20-30 years	$4-8 / sq ft	Commercial, low-slope roofs

Roof structure & components

Roof Deck

Structural foundation

Roof Pitch

Slope & drainage

Roof Ventilation

Airflow systems

Roof Insulation

Thermal protection

Common Roof Structures

Gable, hip, mansard

Roof Integrity

Structural health

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