When most homeowners think about a new roof, they usually picture shingles or tiles—but a properly installed roofing system includes much more than just the surface materials. Beneath those visible layers is a series of carefully chosen components that work together to protect your home from the elements, regulate temperature, and ensure long-term durability.
If you know what actually goes into a roof, it can help you make informed decisions when it’s time for a replacement or major repair. In this post, we’ll walk you through a complete roofing materials list and highlight essential elements that contribute to a well-built, long-lasting roof. If you’re planning a new installation or just want to know what’s over your head, this guide will give you a clearer picture of what quality roofing really requires.
1. Roof Decking (Sheathing)
The roof decking—also known as sheathing—is the foundational layer of every roofing system. It’s typically made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) and is installed directly over the roof’s structural framing. This layer provides a solid surface for all other roofing materials to be attached to, making it a critical part of the roofing materials list.
Damaged or rotting decking can compromise the entire roofing system, which is why it’s often inspected and, if necessary, replaced during a roof installation. A sturdy, well-installed decking layer ensures structural integrity, supports the weight of shingles or tiles, and helps maintain your roof’s long-term performance.
2. Underlayment
The second item on the roofing materials list that you should know about is the underlayment. This is a protective layer installed directly over the roof decking, serving as a crucial moisture barrier beneath your primary roofing material. It provides a second line of defense against rain, wind-driven water, and ice, helping to prevent leaks and water damage inside your home.
There are two main types of underlayment: asphalt-saturated felt (felt paper) and synthetic underlayment. While traditional felt is more affordable, synthetic options are becoming increasingly popular due to their improved durability, lighter weight, and better resistance to mold and tearing.
3. Drip Edge
Next comes the drip edge, which is a thin strip of metal flashing installed along the edges of your roof, typically at the eaves and rakes. Its primary purpose is to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters, preventing water from seeping underneath the shingles and causing damage to the roof deck and underlying structure.
Though small and often overlooked, the drip edge plays a major role in protecting your home from moisture intrusion, rot, and even pest infestation. It also gives the roof a clean, finished appearance. Because of its function and importance, a quality drip edge is a must-have on any professional roofing materials list, especially for roofs in climates with frequent rain or snow.
4. Ice and Water Shield (Where Applicable)
An ice and water shield is a self-adhering, waterproof membrane that provides extra protection in the most vulnerable areas of your roof—such as valleys, eaves, around chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes. It’s especially useful in regions prone to ice dams, heavy rain, or snow, where water has a higher chance of seeping under the shingles.
Unlike standard underlayment, this material seals tightly around roofing nails and fasteners, creating a watertight barrier that helps prevent leaks caused by wind-driven rain or melting ice. While not needed in every climate, ice and water shields are a critical component of the roofing materials list in areas with harsh weather.
5. Starter Shingles
Then we have starter shingles, which are the first layer of shingles installed along the edges of your roof—specifically at the eaves and rakes—before the main field shingles are applied. Their primary purpose is to provide extra wind resistance and ensure a secure seal at the roof’s edges, helping to prevent water infiltration and shingle blow-off.
These shingles are designed differently than regular shingles, often with a continuous adhesive strip that bonds tightly to the next layer, creating a watertight barrier at one of the roof’s most vulnerable areas. Skipping this step or using cut field shingles instead can lead to premature failure.
6. Roofing Shingles or Primary Material
The most visible and recognizable part of your roofing system is the primary roofing material, which acts as the first line of defense against the elements. This layer not only protects your home from rain, wind, and UV rays but also plays a major role in curb appeal and energy efficiency.
Common options include:
- Asphalt shingles – Affordable, versatile, and widely used.
- Metal panels – Durable, fire-resistant, and great for energy efficiency.
- Clay or concrete tiles – Long-lasting and ideal for warmer climates.
- Slate – High-end, extremely durable, and elegant.
- Wood shakes – Natural appearance, though higher maintenance.
The choice of material depends on your budget, local climate, and home style. No matter which you choose, the roofing shingles or primary material are the centerpiece of your roofing materials list, providing both function and style to your finished roof.
7. Flashing
Flashing is a thin, weather-resistant material—typically made of aluminum or galvanized steel—used to seal and protect the areas of your roof most vulnerable to water penetration. It’s installed around chimneys, skylights, vents, dormers, and in roof valleys, where water tends to collect or flow.
The purpose of flashing is to redirect water away from seams, joints, and transitions, preventing leaks and long-term moisture damage. Even the best shingles can’t fully protect these areas without properly installed flashing.
Because flashing works behind the scenes to keep your roof watertight, it’s a non-negotiable component of any complete roofing materials list. Without it, your roof could be left exposed to leaks, rot, and costly structural issues.
8. Ridge Vents and Ventilation Materials
A sometimes overlooked item on roofing materials lists is proper ventilation. Which is essential for maintaining the health and efficiency of your roofing system. Examples are ridge vents, along with soffit vents, gable vents, or powered exhaust fans. These all work together to allow hot, humid air to escape from your attic while drawing in cooler, fresh air. This airflow helps regulate temperature, reduce moisture buildup, and extend the life of your roofing materials.
Poor ventilation can lead to a variety of problems, including mold growth, warped decking, and higher energy bills due to heat buildup. Ridge vents, installed at the peak of the roof, are one of the most effective ways to promote continuous airflow without disrupting the roofline’s appearance.
9. Ridge Cap Shingles
Ridge cap shingles are specially designed shingles that cover the ridge or peak of your roof, where two roof slopes meet. Unlike standard shingles, ridge caps are thicker, pre-bent, and built to provide enhanced protection at this critical area, which is particularly vulnerable to wind and water intrusion.
They serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose—sealing off the top of the roof while giving it a clean, finished look. Ridge cap shingles also work in tandem with ridge vents, allowing for proper attic ventilation without sacrificing weather resistance.
10. Fasteners and Sealants
No roofing system is complete without the right fasteners and sealants, which hold everything together and keep water out. Fasteners—such as roofing nails or screws—secure shingles, flashing, and other materials to the roof deck. It’s important to use corrosion-resistant options that are compatible with your roofing material and local weather conditions.
Sealants play a different but equally critical role. They are used to seal gaps, joints, and penetrations, especially around flashing, vents, and chimneys. High-quality roofing sealants help create a watertight barrier in areas where water is most likely to seep in.
While small in size, fasteners and sealants are vital components of any solid roofing materials list. Using the wrong type—or applying them incorrectly—can compromise the integrity of your roof and lead to premature failure.
Feeling Overwhelmed by this Roofing Materials List?
When it comes to needing a roof repair or replacement, we find that many people are told by family or friends “roofing is easy – you could do that in a day by yourself.” And while it’s true a roof can be replaced in a day, it is a bit more complicated or overwhelming when you have never done it before.
If you’re someone who read this roofing materials list and learned something (or many things) new, we don’t recommend trying to replace your roof yourself because a well-built roof is more than just shingles—it’s a layered system of materials that work together to protect your home from the elements. From the roof deck to the ridge caps and everything in between, each component on this roofing materials list plays a vital role in ensuring durability, energy efficiency, and long-term performance.
If you’re considering a new roof or want a professional opinion on your current one, Green Group Roofing is here to help. Our team will walk you through every step, explain the materials we use, and make sure your roof is built to the highest standards. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the quality roofing your home deserves.