When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your UK home, there’s more to think about than just looks. Durability, cost, weather resistance, and maintenance all play a part. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular roofing materials in the UK—highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and typical costs in 2025.

1. Slate Roofing

Slate is one of the most traditional and visually striking materials used in the UK.

✅ Pros:

• Extremely durable (can last over 100 years)

• Highly resistant to water, fire, and rot

• Natural, eco-friendly material

• Adds heritage-style character

❌ Cons:

• Expensive to install

• Heavy – may require structural reinforcement

• Fragile under foot traffic or impact

💷 Average Cost (2025):
£90 – £130 per m² (including installation)

Best for: Period properties, high-end homes, listed buildings

2. Clay Roof Tiles

Clay tiles are a classic choice with timeless appeal, often seen on older or countryside homes.

✅ Pros:

• Long lifespan (up to 60 years or more)

• Resistant to rot, insects, and fire

• Traditional appearance suited to UK weather

• Low maintenance

❌ Cons:

• Heavy, like slate

• Higher upfront cost

• Brittle in freezing temperatures if not treated

💷 Average Cost (2025):
£60 – £90 per m² (including installation)

Best for: Heritage buildings, cottages, traditional homes

3. Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete tiles are a modern alternative to clay and slate—strong, affordable, and widely used.

✅ Pros:

• More affordable than clay or slate

• Durable (30–50 year lifespan)

• Available in various colours and styles

• Easier to install and repair

❌ Cons:

• Fades over time

• Slightly heavier than clay

• Less eco-friendly

💷 Average Cost (2025):
£40 – £65 per m² (including installation)

Best for: Modern homes, semi-detached houses, new builds

4. Metal Roofing (Steel or Zinc)

Modern metal roofing is on the rise, especially in commercial and contemporary residential builds.

✅ Pros:

• Lightweight

• Very long lifespan (up to 70 years)

• Recyclable and eco-friendly

• Good wind and weather resistance

❌ Cons:

• Noisy during rain unless properly insulated

• Industrial look may not suit all homes

• Prone to denting

💷 Average Cost (2025):
£80 – £120 per m² (depending on the metal and finish)

Best for: Contemporary homes, eco-conscious projects, extensions

5. Flat Roofing (EPDM, GRP Fibreglass, or Felt)

Flat roofs are common for extensions, garages, or modern architecture. The material you choose defines performance and longevity.

a) EPDM Rubber

• Pros: Easy to install, flexible, durable (25+ years), UV resistant

• Cons: Vulnerable to punctures

• Cost: £50 – £80 per m²

b) GRP Fibreglass

• Pros: Seamless, highly waterproof, low maintenance

• Cons: Brittle in extreme cold, more costly

• Cost: £70 – £100 per m²

c) Felt Roofing

• Pros: Cheapest flat roofing material

• Cons: Short lifespan (10–20 years), not eco-friendly

• Cost: £40 – £60 per m²

Best for: Home extensions, porches, garages, garden rooms

6. Green Roofs (Sedum or Turf)

Eco-friendly and increasingly popular, green roofs add insulation and a natural look to urban buildings.

✅ Pros:

• Excellent thermal and sound insulation

• Supports biodiversity

• Reduces water runoff

• Modern and eco-conscious

❌ Cons:

• Expensive installation

• Requires maintenance and proper waterproofing

• Heavier than traditional materials

💷 Average Cost (2025):
£120 – £160 per m²

Best for: Eco homes, flat roofs, city buildings

How to Choose the Right Roofing Material

When selecting your roofing material, consider:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right roofing material in the UK is about more than just appearance. Climate, property age, budget, and your long-term goals all matter. Whether you prefer the elegance of slate, the affordability of concrete tiles, or the eco-benefits of a green roof, there’s a perfect match for your project.

Before making any decisions, speak with a qualified roofing contractor to inspect your existing structure and recommend the best option for your needs and budget.