Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. In Central New Jersey, that means hot summers, cold winters, heavy rain, snow, and the occasional hurricane remnant. Your roofing material needs to handle all of it.
Here’s what to consider.
Asphalt Shingles
The most popular choice for good reason.
Asphalt shingles are on about 80% of homes in America, and they’re the default choice for most residential projects in Monmouth, Middlesex, and Mercer counties.
Pros:
- Affordable (typically $3-5 per square foot installed)
- Wide variety of colors and styles
- Easy to repair
- 20-30 year lifespan with proper maintenance
Cons:
- Shorter lifespan than premium materials
- Can be damaged by high winds (relevant for coastal NJ)
- Not as eco-friendly (petroleum-based)
Best for: Most homeowners in Millstone, Freehold, and Monroe looking for reliable, cost-effective roofing.
Architectural Shingles
The upgraded asphalt option.
Architectural (or dimensional) shingles are thicker, more durable, and have a more textured appearance than standard 3-tab shingles.
Pros:
- Better wind resistance (up to 130 mph — important during NJ storms)
- Longer warranties (30-50 years)
- More attractive appearance
- Only 20-30% more expensive than standard shingles
Cons:
- Heavier — may require structural assessment on older homes
- Still petroleum-based
Best for: Homeowners willing to pay a bit more for better durability and curb appeal. This is our most common recommendation for Central NJ homes.
Metal Roofing
Growing in popularity for good reason.
Metal roofs have come a long way from the barn-style corrugated panels. Modern options can mimic shingles, slate, or tiles.
Pros:
- 50+ year lifespan
- Excellent in snow (slides right off — great for NJ winters)
- Energy efficient (reflects heat in summer)
- Recyclable and eco-friendly
- Fire resistant
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost ($7-15 per square foot)
- Can be noisy in heavy rain (though underlayment helps)
- Requires specialized installation
Best for: Homeowners planning to stay long-term who want a “forever roof.”
Slate
The premium choice.
Real slate is about as durable as it gets — there are slate roofs in Europe that are 400+ years old. You’ll see beautiful slate roofs on historic homes throughout Princeton and Cranbury.
Pros:
- 100+ year lifespan
- Incredibly beautiful
- Fire resistant
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Very expensive ($15-30+ per square foot)
- Heavy — requires reinforced roof structure
- Few contractors qualified to install it
- Fragile when walked on
Best for: High-end and historic homes where aesthetics and longevity justify the investment.
What About Flat Roofs?
If you have a flat or low-slope roof (common on additions and some modern homes), your options are different:
- EPDM (rubber): Affordable, proven, 20-25 year life
- TPO: Energy efficient, good for commercial
- Modified bitumen: Durable, handles NJ weather well
Our Recommendation
For most Central NJ homeowners, architectural shingles offer the best balance of cost, durability, and appearance. If you’re planning to stay in your home for 20+ years and can afford the upfront cost, metal is worth considering.
Need help deciding? Contact us for a free roof inspection and consultation. We serve Millstone, Freehold, Monroe Township, Princeton Junction, Manalapan, and all of Central New Jersey.