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The right roofing material for your Wichita home depends on Kansas' seasonal weather, your home's design, and your overall budget. While asphalt shingles are still the most widely used roof type, homeowners today have many roofing options to consider.


Below is a breakdown of 13 popular roof materials, their benefits and drawbacks, and how to select the most suitable one for your property.



1. Asphalt Shingles


Asphalt shingles are the go-to roofing material across the U.S. thanks to their affordability and solid performance. Made from a mix of bitumen and mineral granules, asphalt is available in standard three-tab or architectural styles, which offer more durability and visual depth.


Asphalt roofing is highly resistant to temperature swings, wind, and hail?making it a smart choice for Wichita?s variable climate. Repairs are simple, and damaged shingles can be swapped out without a full roof replacement. Homeowners may also opt for fiberglass-reinforced versions, though they may not last as long.



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2. Metal Shingles or Shakes


Metal shingles replicate the appearance of cedar, clay, or slate but come with added durability and lower upkeep. They resist fire, strong winds, and severe weather?common issues in Kansas. Although the initial price is higher, they often prove cost-effective over time due to minimal maintenance.



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3. Standing Seam Metal Roof


This metal roof type features vertical panels with raised seams that interlock to prevent water intrusion and hide fasteners?reducing corrosion risk. Its sleek, modern design suits contemporary Wichita homes and holds up well against hail and wind damage.



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4. Wood Shingles or Shakes


Wood offers natural beauty and rustic charm, often used in Craftsman and historic home designs. Cedar and redwood are common choices, offering decent insulation and curb appeal. However, wood roofing is vulnerable to fire, insects, and rot, especially if not treated properly?challenges that can be amplified by Kansas' humidity and storm seasons.



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5. Slate


Slate roofing is both elegant and extremely durable, often lasting 75 to 100 years. It withstands heat well and resists fire, which makes it an excellent option for long-term investment. However, it is heavy and may require structural reinforcement?something to check if you're upgrading an existing Wichita home.



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6. Synthetic Roofing


Made from engineered plastic, rubber, or polymers, synthetic roofing replicates the look of natural materials like slate or wood but offers improved resistance to hail and moisture. It?s a newer option on the market but growing in popularity across regions with volatile weather patterns like Kansas.



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7. Clay Tiles


Clay tiles have a distinct curved appearance and are common in Mediterranean-style architecture. They are highly durable but very heavy, often requiring extra structural support. While not common in Kansas, they may work well for homeowners wanting a unique, long-lasting roof?if the structure can support the weight.



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8. Concrete Tiles


Concrete tiles are similar in appearance to clay but are more affordable and customizable. They hold up well to fire, wind, and hail but still weigh quite a bit?something to consider for Wichita homes. These tiles can resemble wood, slate, or asphalt but offer better strength.



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9. Rolled Roofing


Typically used on garages or sheds with low-slope or flat roofs, rolled roofing comes in long sheets that are fastened down. It?s affordable and easy to install, though less attractive and less durable than other roof materials. In Kansas, it?s better suited for outbuildings rather than main residences.



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10. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)


Used mostly on commercial or flat residential roofs, BUR systems are layered using asphalt and felt materials, topped with gravel. They're strong and moisture-resistant?ideal for buildings with minimal slope.



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11. Roofing Membranes


Roofing membranes, including TPO, EPDM, and PVC, are used for flat roofs on garages, shops, or modern homes. These materials are flexible, weather-resistant, and sometimes reflective. In Wichita?s hot summers, choosing a white or light-colored membrane can reduce heat absorption.



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12. Green Roofs


Also known as living roofs, these systems incorporate vegetation and soil over a waterproof base. Though rare in Kansas homes, they can reduce runoff, insulate the home, and add natural beauty. Wichita?s sunny summers support plant growth, but winter prep and maintenance are essential.



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13. Copper Roofing


Copper roofs are timeless, naturally resistant to fire and corrosion, and develop a beautiful patina over time. While the cost is high upfront, their longevity (up to 100 years) and low maintenance make them ideal for premium installations.



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What to Consider When Choosing Roof Materials in Wichita


Climate

Wichita sees a range of weather?hot summers, winter snow, hailstorms, and strong winds. Your roof material should be able to:



Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs, asphalt shingles, and synthetic materials can improve insulation and help reduce heating and cooling bills?something especially valuable in Kansas' hot-cold weather cycle.


Installation Method

If you're considering DIY installation, go with easier-to-handle materials like asphalt shingles. For more complex or heavy roof types, like slate or clay, hiring a licensed roofing contractor is the safest approach.