Comparing Roofing Materials: Asphalt, Metal, Tile, and More

May 1, 2026Blog, Central Texas, Roofing Materials

If you own a home in Central Texas, your roof has a tougher job than roofs in a lot of other parts of the country. Between the intense summer heat, sudden hailstorms, high winds, and long stretches of direct sun, roofing materials around Austin have to handle a lot year after year. That is why choosing the right roofing system matters so much here. The wrong material can cause premature wear, higher maintenance costs, and more stress during storm season.

A lot of homeowners start researching the different types of roofing materials after they notice aging shingles, storm-related wear, or rising energy bills. And once you start comparing options, it can get overwhelming fast. Asphalt, metal, tile, stone-coated steel, and standing seam; every material seems to promise something different.

At Green Knight Metal Roofing, we help homeowners across the Austin area understand what actually works in the Texas climate. Since 2007, our team has installed metal roofing throughout Central Texas, and because metal roofing is all we do, we have seen firsthand how different roofing systems perform over time in this environment.

Understanding the Different Types of Roofing Materials

When homeowners compare the most common types of roofing materials, the conversation usually comes down to four major categories:

  • Asphalt shingles
  • Metal roofing
  • Clay or concrete tile
  • Flat roofing systems for certain residential and commercial properties

Each option has advantages, but not every roofing material performs the same in Central Texas weather.

Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt shingles are still one of the most common residential roofing systems in Texas because they are widely available and generally have a lower upfront cost. However, Central Texas weather can be tough on asphalt roofs over time.

Extended UV exposure, heat cycling, hail, and wind can cause shingles to dry out, crack, curl, or lose granules faster than homeowners expect. After severe weather, asphalt roofs may also be more prone to lifted shingles or moisture intrusion.

While asphalt works for some homes, it is important to think beyond the initial installation cost and consider long-term durability and maintenance as well.

Tile Roofing

Tile roofing systems, including clay and concrete tile, are known for their appearance and longevity. They are common on certain architectural styles throughout Texas and can perform well in hot climates.

That said, tile roofs are heavy and may require additional structural support. Individual tiles can also crack from hail impact or foot traffic during maintenance work. Repairs can sometimes be more specialized and expensive than homeowners initially realize.

Trusted Metal Roofing in Central Texas

Metal Roofing

This is where metal roofing continues to stand out for many Central Texas homeowners.

When homeowners search for “asphalt vs metal vs tile,” they are usually trying to figure out which system gives them the best balance of durability, appearance, energy efficiency, and long-term value. In Texas, metal roofing checks a lot of those boxes.

Metal roofs are designed to handle:

  • Extreme heat
  • Heavy rain
  • Hail exposure
  • High winds
  • Rapid temperature swings

At Green Knight, we install both steel and aluminum roofing systems in styles like standing seam and metal shingles. These systems are engineered specifically for long-term performance in climates like Austin and the surrounding Hill Country communities.

Standing seam metal roofs, in particular, are popular because of their clean appearance, durability, and weather resistance. Many homeowners also appreciate that metal roofing reflects solar heat more effectively than some traditional roofing systems, which may help improve overall energy efficiency.

So, What Is the Best Roofing Material Texas Homeowners Can Choose?

The truth is, the best roofing material Texas homeowners choose often depends on their priorities, budget, home style, and long-term plans. But for homeowners looking for durability and longevity in the Central Texas climate, metal roofing continues to be one of the strongest long-term investments available.

One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that all roofing systems perform roughly the same over time. They do not. Texas weather exposes weaknesses quickly, especially during hail season and long periods of extreme heat.

That is one reason Green Knight focuses exclusively on metal roofing rather than trying to install every type of roof on the market. Metal roofing is a specialized trade that requires training and experience, and our team believes homeowners deserve contractors who truly understand the system they are installing.

Trusted Metal Roofing in Central Texas

What About Storm Damage and Insurance Claims?

In Texas, severe weather is part of life. Hail, wind, and heavy storms can damage roofing systems in ways that are not always obvious from the ground.

If you suspect your roof may have storm-related damage, the first step is always getting a professional inspection before making any decisions. Green Knight provides detailed inspections for metal roofing systems and documents any visible storm-related issues clearly and honestly.

If you choose to file a claim, we can provide clear inspection findings, photos, and repair or replacement documentation for you to share with your insurance company. When requested, we can also be present during the adjuster’s inspection to answer construction-related questions about the roof. We do not act as public adjusters, determine coverage, negotiate claim settlements, or waive deductibles.

 Our role is to help homeowners understand the condition of their roof and complete quality repairs or replacement work when needed; not pressure them into unnecessary work.

Why Central Texas Homeowners Choose Green Knight

Homeowners throughout Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Dripping Springs, Cedar Park, and surrounding communities choose Green Knight because we are not general roofers trying to do a little bit of everything.

Metal roofing is our specialty.

We install and service:

  • Standing seam metal roofing
  • Metal shingles
  • Steel roofing systems
  • Aluminum roofing systems
  • Residential metal roof replacements
  • Commercial metal roofing systems
  • Metal siding systems
  • Gutters and gutter guards

Our team believes in honest inspections, clear communication, and helping homeowners make informed decisions that fit their property and goals.

In a climate like Central Texas, your roof is one of the most important investments you make in your home. If you are comparing roofing materials and want real guidance about what works best here, Green Knight Metal Roofing is here to help you make the right decision with confidence.