As home building material prices increase, it’s good to know how to compare products.

Are you trying to figure out which roofing materials are best for your next project? Want to fully understand what goes into a roof replacement?

If so, you’re in the right place.

Before we dive in, here’s a tip: if you’d rather skip the research and get straight to the specifics, reach out to trustworthy roofing contractors in the Kern County region with proven experience and a track record of satisfied customers. This will save you a lot of time.

But if you’re the kind of person who wants to dig in and learn the details, we’ve got you covered. This post will walk you through (1) comparing roofing materials, (2) understanding costs, (3) and knowing what to look for when planning your project.

Start with Simplicity: Let’s be honest—comparing roofing materials can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the details. That’s why we suggest using the KISS principle: Keep It Simple, Stupid.

In our experience, simplicity is the key to navigating complex construction projects. Breaking things down into manageable pieces will help you focus on what really matters.

Avoid Bargain Pitfalls: When evaluating materials, steer clear of those so-called “bargains” that seem too good to be true. You’ll save money upfront, but cheap materials often mean poor craftsmanship—and major roofing issues later on.

Bargains are fine for things like school supplies or home decor, but not for something as critical as your roofing system. A quality roof protects your most valuable asset: your home. Think long term. It’s worth investing in the best materials within your budget.

Here are the most important roofing materials to compare:

• Roofing shingles
• Starter strip shingles
• Underlayment
• Sheathing (roof deck)
• Drip edge
• Flashing

This isn’t a complete list of materials. Every project is unique, and the materials needed will vary based on the customer’s specific requirements and the details of the job.

This is why high-quality building materials are non-negotiable:

To get the job done right, you need top-notch materials. But what exactly does that involve? And how do estimators calculate the numbers that make up a roof replacement quote?

In a nutshell...

1. An estimator’s main job is to assess the scope of the work.
2. They take accurate measurements and determine the roof’s pitch.
3. They identify what materials will be required for the project.
4. They calculate labor costs and include a markup for profit.

Most licensed contractors tend to stick with materials from specific manufacturers they’re certified to work with. Why? Because experience has taught them which products deliver the best results. While there are plenty of manufacturers out there, we recommend choosing trusted names like GAF, Malarkey, CertainTeed—suppliers known for their quality and reliability.

How to compare roofing materials:

So, you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your roof, and now you want to compare materials to make sure you’re getting the best value. Great move!

The key is figuring out which materials deliver the best performance for the price. While labor costs also play a role in the overall estimate, for now, let’s focus on comparing materials themselves.

When researching roofing materials, prioritize longevity and durability over just cost. Yes, roofing projects are expensive, but accepting that upfront will help you make a smarter decision. That doesn’t mean you take the first deal you’re offered—it means understanding the investment.

Roof replacements are a big deal. Like any other remodeling job a new roof  is expensive. It’s not something to cut corners on—cheap materials or labor can lead to costly problems later.

But don’t let that intimidate you...

With the right advice and a solid plan, you’ll be in good shape.

To start, focus on finding the shingles that suit your property. Then, get an idea of the average local cost based on your roof’s square footage.

One of our go-to materials? GAF or Malarkey composition shingles—we install them more often than anything else for a reason.

These shingles are by far the most popular option—we use them on about 70% of our jobs. In our experience, they offer the best value for your investment and are readily available at local Bakersfield distributors like ABC Supply Co.

We recommend these shingles for several reasons:

• Easy to install.
• Their reflective design helps keep your attic cooler in the summer.
• Provide excellent protection against harsh Bakersfield summers.
• They resist wind uplift (useful if you live in Tehachapi, Mojave, or Rosamond).
• Made from fire-resistant materials.
• They come with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

But don’t just take our word for it—research yourself. Check out online reviews, see what other homeowners are saying, and make a few calls to local roofers.

And while you’re at it, compare composition shingles with other types of materials, like…

Metal roof panels

Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles, from corrugated panels to sheet metal. It’s known for its longevity and low maintenance, but it will cost more upfront. The good news? With proper maintenance, metal roofing can last a lifetime.

That said, metal roofs aren’t a common sight in Bakersfield metropolitan area. They’re a bit overkill for our weather and might not fit every homeowner’s budget or aesthetic. They’re more popular with those who own property in the farming or industrial community.

If you’re considering metal roofing, be sure to hire experienced installers. Metal roofing isn’t a DIY or beginner-friendly material—it requires expertise.

Tile and clay shingles

If durability is at the top of your list, tile or clay shingles might be the right choice. While they’re another pricey option, they come with added benefits. Concrete tiles, in particular, offer a long lifespan, energy efficiency, and a great design. They’ll not only protect your home but also boost its value—especially if you’re planning to sell.

You’ll notice a price difference between clay and concrete tiles. Concrete is far more durable than clay, which is why it’s typically more expensive. That said, both options will cost more than composition asphalt shingles.

Slate roofing tiles

Natural slate combines resilience with timeless beauty. While it’s significantly more expensive than composition shingles, it could be well worth the investment depending on your priorities.

The cost of slate often turns homeowners away. Materials alone can range from $6 to $18 per square foot (as of 2020), and that doesn’t even include labor. Installation is labor-intensive and requires highly skilled professionals, further increasing the price.

That said, if budget isn’t a concern and you’re looking for a roofing system with unmatched performance and a lifespan of 75–150 years, slate is an excellent choice.

To explore your options, connect with a Kern County distributor to understand pricing, or check online retailers for estimates on material costs. It’s always good to have a clear idea of the numbers before making a decision.

Additional mandatory supporting materials for a reroof

Now that you’ve narrowed down your shingle options, it’s time to look at the additional materials needed for a proper installation. These materials are just as important as the shingles themselves and can significantly impact the overall cost.

Here’s a checklist to get you started:

• Check the current cost of underlayment per foot.
• Look up prices for sheathing.
• Count the number of vents that need replacing and find ones that are compatible with your home.
• Determine how many valleys need to be installed.
• Estimate how much paint is required to match roofing materials with your home’s design.
• Inspect your fascia boards—are they in good condition? If not, price out lumber and nails for repairs.

This is just a starting point. Keep in mind, different types of shingles often require specific supporting materials, so make sure you’re prepared with the right information for your project.

Let’s review

This can be a lot to take in, and you might not be sure what to do next. To make things easier, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Figure out which shingle best suits your property.
2. Check consumer reports and call local contractors to get insights on materials.
3. Identify which shingle features are the most appealing and practical for your needs.
4. Compare different roofing materials and understand what’s involved in installing each one.
5. Make an informed decision and ensure you secure the best warranty for your investment.

Taking it step by step will help you feel more confident about your roofing project.

The big picture

By now, you should have a good idea of how to compare roofing materials. And while we’ve touched on this before, it’s worth repeating:

Finding a trustworthy contractor can save you a ton of time and effort.

A good contractor won’t just handle the labor—they’ll also help you select the best materials and navigate all the details. It’s much easier to work with someone who knows the ins and outs of roofing than to try to figure everything out yourself.

At Superior Roofing, we do this every day. We’ve built strong relationships with suppliers and only use top-quality materials.

If you’re determined to compare materials on your own, we hope this guide makes the process easier.

But if you’d rather skip the hassle, we’d love to help. Contact us today at (661) 679-6923 for a free estimate on materials, labor, and permits. We’ll take care of the hard work so you don’t have to.