Choosing the right roofing material for your home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about performance, longevity, and protection against the elements. In Pittsburgh, where we face everything from icy winters to humid summers and frequent storms, the material on your roof matters even more. And when you zoom in on the suburbs, each neighborhood has its own architectural character that influences the best roofing choice.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best roofing materials for several of Pittsburgh’s most popular suburban neighborhoods, factoring in local weather, housing styles, and long-term value. Whether you’re in Mt. Lebanon, Fox Chapel, Squirrel Hill, or Robinson Township, we’ve got you covered.
Mt. Lebanon: Historic Charm Meets Modern Updates
Mt. Lebanon is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and charming architecture. With many Tudor-style, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes, the neighborhood offers a classic aesthetic that demands a roofing material to match.
Best Roofing Options for Mt. Lebanon:
- Slate or Synthetic Slate: Perfect for Tudor-style homes, slate offers unmatched durability and historic authenticity. Synthetic slate gives the same elegant look at a fraction of the weight and cost.
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles: A practical and popular choice in Mt. Lebanon, these shingles blend well with the area’s historic look while offering excellent weather resistance.
- Metal Roofing (Standing Seam): Increasingly popular for renovations in Mt. Lebanon, metal roofing adds a modern touch while providing exceptional performance in Pittsburgh’s unpredictable climate.
Because Mt. Lebanon has older homes with intricate rooflines, professional installation is critical to prevent leaks and ensure longevity. Many homeowners in Mt. Lebanon are opting for energy-efficient roofing to offset rising energy costs and keep historic homes comfortable year-round.
Fox Chapel: Elegant Estates & Natural Surroundings
Fox Chapel is one of Pittsburgh’s most prestigious suburbs, known for its large estate homes, lush greenery, and custom-built properties. The homes here are often architect-designed with unique roof structures.
Best Roofing Options for Fox Chapel:
- Cedar Shake Roofing: Cedar is a beautiful, natural material that suits the wooded, upscale aesthetic of Fox Chapel. It offers great insulation and blends beautifully with the landscape.
- Tile Roofing (Clay or Concrete): Great for Mediterranean or European-style homes, which are not uncommon in Fox Chapel. These roofs are long-lasting and visually impressive.
- High-End Architectural Shingles: For more modern homes or custom builds in Fox Chapel, high-end designer shingles provide durability and aesthetic flexibility.
The large lot sizes and luxury home designs in Fox Chapel allow for roofing materials that might not be practical in tighter urban neighborhoods. Given the investment homeowners make here, roofing should match the home’s value and curb appeal.
Squirrel Hill: Urban Convenience, Classic Homes
Squirrel Hill is a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with a mix of historic homes, duplexes, and mid-century houses. From brick Colonials to Arts and Crafts bungalows, Squirrel Hill homes tend to have steep-pitched roofs and plenty of character.
Best Roofing Options for Squirrel Hill:
- Dimensional Asphalt Shingles: Affordable, reliable, and easy to blend with the traditional look of Squirrel Hill homes.
- Synthetic Slate: For larger homes or those on wide lots, synthetic slate enhances curb appeal without the maintenance of natural slate.
- Flat Roofing Systems (for row homes and duplexes): Some of the multi-unit properties in Squirrel Hill benefit from EPDM or TPO flat roofing for efficient water drainage and energy performance.
Because Squirrel Hill sits close to the heart of the city, zoning and permitting can affect roofing decisions. Many homeowners here choose materials that upgrade their property without clashing with the neighborhood’s classic vibe.
Robinson Township: Family-Friendly and Fast-Growing
Robinson Township is one of Pittsburgh’s most rapidly growing suburban areas. It’s filled with new construction homes, townhouses, and traditional ranch-style properties. The roofing here leans more toward modern, cost-effective materials.
Best Roofing Options for Robinson Township:
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles: The go-to roofing material in Robinson Township, these shingles offer excellent value and performance for new builds and suburban developments.
- Metal Roofing (for energy efficiency): Many homeowners in Robinson Township are opting for metal roofs, especially on newer or custom homes, due to their long lifespan and energy efficiency.
- Composite Shingles: A rising trend in Robinson Township developments, composite shingles mimic the look of slate or wood but offer better durability and less maintenance.
Given the active real estate market in Robinson Township, choosing a roofing material that balances cost and curb appeal can have a direct impact on resale value. Fast-moving housing trends mean homeowners here often want modern, efficient options.
Final Thoughts: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
When choosing the best roofing material, it’s important to consider:
- Your home’s architectural style
- Your neighborhood’s character and HOA requirements (if applicable)
- Pittsburgh’s regional weather and seasonal wear
- Long-term durability and energy efficiency
Whether you live in Mt. Lebanon, Fox Chapel, Squirrel Hill, or Robinson Township, there’s a roofing material that perfectly suits your home’s design and the area’s climate. At Alan Construction, we’ve worked extensively in each of these neighborhoods and understand what works—and what doesn’t—for every style of home.
