Roll Roofing Material Types (4 Options Compared)

Not every roof calls for traditional shingles, especially when it comes to low slope sections like porches, sheds, additions, or outbuildings where water drainage works differently. Roll roofing material offers a practical, budget-friendly solution for these applications, providing reliable protection where steeper slope materials are not well suited. Before choosing a roofing solution for these areas, it helps to understand your options through a professional roofing service built to handle a wide range of residential applications so you can select the material best suited to your specific project.

Here is what you will learn in this guide:

• What roll roofing material is and where it works best
• The main types of roll roofing available today
• How each type compares in durability and cost
• Installation considerations for roll roofing projects
• Tips for choosing the right roll roofing material for your needs

Why Roll Roofing Material Matters For Low Slope Applications

Low slope roofs present unique challenges since traditional shingles are not designed to shed water effectively at minimal pitches. Roll roofing material fills this gap, offering an affordable and practical solution for porches, sheds, additions, and other structures where a steeper slope roofing system would not perform well.

• Affordability: Roll roofing is one of the most budget-friendly roofing material options available for low slope applications.
• Easy installation: The simple application process makes roll roofing a practical choice for smaller projects and outbuildings.
• Reliable water resistance: When installed correctly, roll roofing provides dependable protection against moisture for low slope surfaces.
• Lightweight material: Roll roofing adds minimal weight to the roof structure compared to heavier roofing systems.
• Versatile applications: This material works well for sheds, garages, porches, and other secondary structures around the home.

4 Roll Roofing Material Types Compared

Several types of roll roofing material are available, each with different compositions, durability levels, and best use cases. Below are the four main types homeowners should understand before choosing a product for their project.

1. Mineral Surfaced Roll Roofing

Mineral surfaced roll roofing is the most common and widely used type, featuring a base layer of asphalt coated with mineral granules similar to those found on traditional shingles. This type offers reasonable durability and a slightly more finished appearance compared to smooth surfaced alternatives, making it a practical choice for homeowners wanting an affordable option that still looks intentional rather than purely utilitarian.

• Mineral granules provide some UV protection and improve appearance
• Commonly used on sheds, porches, and other low slope outbuildings
• Available in a limited range of colors to coordinate with the main roof

Installation typically involves nailing the material down in overlapping courses, with exposed nail heads sealed using roofing cement to prevent water infiltration at fastener points. While this method is straightforward, it requires careful attention to detail since improperly sealed nails are a common source of leaks over time.

2. Smooth Surfaced Roll Roofing

Smooth surfaced roll roofing lacks the mineral granule coating found on other types, giving it a plain, flat appearance. This type is typically used as an underlayment or base layer in built-up roofing systems rather than as a standalone, visible roofing surface.

• Often used as a base layer beneath other roofing materials
• Less UV resistant than mineral surfaced options without additional coating
• Generally more affordable due to its simpler composition

3. Modified Bitumen Roll Roofing

Modified bitumen roll roofing incorporates rubber or plastic polymers into the asphalt base, significantly improving flexibility, durability, and resistance to temperature extremes compared to standard asphalt roll roofing. This type is often installed using heat welding or self-adhesive methods for a more secure, watertight seal.

• Offers improved flexibility in both hot and cold temperatures
• Provides better long-term durability compared to standard asphalt roll roofing
• Often used for more demanding low slope applications requiring extra durability

Homeowners in Plymouth and surrounding areas considering an addition or enclosed porch often choose modified bitumen over standard asphalt roll roofing because of its improved resistance to cracking during seasonal freeze and thaw cycles, which helps extend the material’s usable lifespan in colder climates.

4. Rubber And EPDM Roll Roofing

Rubber roofing, often made from EPDM synthetic rubber, offers excellent durability and flexibility, making it a popular choice for flat or low slope sections that experience significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. This material typically outlasts standard asphalt roll roofing products by a significant margin.

• EPDM rubber roofing can last twenty years or more with proper installation
• Highly resistant to UV damage, cracking, and temperature extremes
• Higher upfront cost compared to asphalt based roll roofing options

EPDM is typically installed in large sheets with fewer seams than other roll roofing types, which further reduces the risk of leaks developing over time. Adhesive or mechanically fastened installation methods are both common, with the choice often depending on the size and layout of the roof section being covered.

Enhancing Your Roll Roofing Project With The Right Approach

Beyond choosing the right material type, a few additional considerations can help ensure your roll roofing project performs well and lasts as long as possible.

Proper Slope Requirements

Roll roofing generally works best on slopes between one and four inches of rise per twelve inches of run, making it important to confirm your specific application falls within the recommended range for the product you select.

Installation Method Matters

Roll roofing can be installed using nail-down, torch-down, or self-adhesive methods depending on the specific product type. Choosing the correct installation method for your chosen material helps ensure a watertight, long-lasting result.

Seam Sealing And Overlap

Proper overlap and sealing at seams is critical for roll roofing performance, since these transition points are the most common areas where leaks develop if not installed correctly. Homeowners in Plymouth and surrounding areas should work with an experienced installer familiar with proper seam techniques for their chosen roll roofing type, as overlap requirements and sealing methods can vary depending on whether the material is asphalt based, modified bitumen, or rubber.

Climate Considerations

Homeowners in colder climates should pay particular attention to how different roll roofing materials perform in freezing temperatures, since some asphalt based products can become brittle and more prone to cracking during harsh winters.

Comparing Roll Roofing Material Types Side By Side

Reviewing how these four roll roofing material types compare across several important factors can help homeowners choose the best option for their specific project.

Choosing Based On Project Type

Smaller, less critical structures like garden sheds may be well served by standard mineral surfaced roll roofing, while additions or structures closer to living spaces may benefit from the added durability of modified bitumen or rubber options.

Balancing Cost And Longevity

While rubber and EPDM roofing carry a higher upfront cost, their significantly longer lifespan can make them a better long-term value for structures where frequent replacement would be inconvenient or costly. For a detached shed or structure that is easy to access, the lower cost of mineral surfaced roll roofing may make more sense even with a shorter expected lifespan, since replacement is relatively quick and affordable when the time comes.

Working With An Experienced Installer

Homeowners throughout Plymouth and surrounding areas benefit from consulting an experienced roofing contractor who can recommend the right roll roofing material based on the specific structure, slope, and intended use of the space. A knowledgeable contractor can also advise on proper flashing details around any penetrations, such as vents or pipes, which are often overlooked but critical to achieving a long-lasting, watertight installation.

Choose The Right Roll Roofing Material For Your Project

Understanding the different types of roll roofing material available helps homeowners make a confident, informed decision for sheds, porches, additions, and other low slope applications around the home. Whether you prioritize affordability with mineral surfaced options or long-term durability with rubber and EPDM products, choosing the right material ensures reliable protection for years to come. Homeowners throughout Plymouth and surrounding areas continue to trust experienced professionals to help them select and install the right roofing solution for every part of their property.

If you are planning a roofing project that calls for roll roofing material or want expert guidance on which type best fits your needs, the team at One Way Construction and Roofing is here to help. Reach out and contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your next roofing project.