In Burke, Virginia, your roof does more than keep rain out. It protects your home through storms, seasons, and years of wear. But with so many roof types out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Asphalt? Metal? Slate? What do those names even mean—and which one actually makes sense for your home?
At Master Roofing & Siding, we’ve been helping Virginia homeowners make smart roofing decisions since 1974. We’ve worked with every material on the market, and we’ve seen what holds up—and what doesn’t. We also know most people just want clear, practical advice from someone they can trust.
So if you’ve been searching for answers like:
- What are the different roof type names?
- How do I choose the best roofing material for my home?
- What holds up in Burke’s weather?
- Who can I trust to install it right the first time?
You’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through what to know before replacing your roof, break down your options, and explain what works best here in Northern Virginia.
And if you’d rather talk it through in person, schedule a free inspection and we’ll come take a look.
Why Roof Type Matters in Northern Virginia
Different roofing materials work better in different climates. In Northern Virginia—and Burke specifically—we see strong windstorms, summer heat, and plenty of mature trees. If your roof can’t handle those conditions, you’re likely to face repairs long before the manufacturer’s warranty says you should.
Here’s what we see most often:
- Wind damage: Shingles lifted or blown off
- Tree impact: Broken branches can puncture or crack roofing
- Aging shingles: UV damage, cracking, and granule loss over time
- Poor past installs: Materials don’t fail as often as the installation does
That’s why we focus on two things: using the right materials for this area, and making sure they’re installed properly by trained crews, not subcontractors.
Before You Choose: What to Consider First
A new roof is a big investment. Before picking a material or calling for pricing, take a minute to think through the following:
Budget
Asphalt shingles are the most affordable, usually starting around $10,000 for a full roof replacement. Metal, synthetic, and specialty systems cost more upfront but often save money in the long run.
Roof Shape and Pitch
Certain materials need a steeper slope to perform properly. If your home has dormers, low slopes, or valleys, that will influence your options.
HOA or Architectural Rules
Many Burke neighborhoods have appearance guidelines. We’ve worked with plenty of HOAs and can help you with approvals if needed.
How Long You Plan to Stay
If this is your long-term home, investing in a more durable system like metal or synthetic may be worth it. If you’re planning to move within 5 years, a solid architectural shingle might be the better choice.
Local Permits
In Fairfax County, most roof replacements require a permit. We take care of that as part of our process, so you don’t have to track it down yourself.
Types of Roofs We Recommend in Burke
We’ve installed just about every roof type on the market, and we’ve narrowed it down to what actually works in our area. Here’s a breakdown of the most common roof type names, what each is best for, and what to consider.
Asphalt Shingles: Reliable and Budget-Friendly
Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles
- Lifespan: 20 to 25 years
- Best for: Budget-focused homeowners or rental properties
- Considerations: Less durable in wind; flat appearance
We still see these on older homes, but most homeowners today choose architectural shingles instead.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
- Lifespan: 30 to 35 years
- Best for: Most residential homes in Burke
- Brands we use: CertainTeed (most often), GAF, Tamko, Owens Corning
- Perks: Better protection, longer life, more texture
These are our most common installs. They look good, last long, and qualify for extended warranties up to 50 years when installed as full systems.
Impact-Resistant (IR) Shingles
- Best for: Homes surrounded by trees or exposed to regular wind
- Insurance benefits: May qualify for discounts on your premium
If a tree limb falls during a storm, these shingles are less likely to crack or break.
Metal Roofing: Long-Term Durability
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
- Lifespan: 40 to 70 years
- Best for: Homeowners who want low maintenance and long-term savings
- Why ours is different: We fabricate the panels in-house for a custom fit
Standing seam roofs are popular with homeowners looking for a clean, modern look—and they handle Burke’s weather beautifully.
Synthetic Slate and Cedar: High-End Look, Lower Maintenance
- Lifespan: 50+ years
- Product we use: EcoStar synthetic roofing
- Benefits: Lightweight, won’t crack like real slate or rot like cedar
If you want the historic charm without the upkeep, this is a strong option. Great for neighborhoods with aesthetic requirements.
Flat and Low-Slope Roofs (for Commercial or Additions)
EPDM Rubber Roofing
- Best for: Flat roof sections, commercial properties, or additions
- Lifespan: 25 to 30 years
This is the go-to for small office buildings and low-slope areas like porches or bump-outs.
Modified Bitumen
- Asphalt-based system with multiple layers
- Affordable and durable
- Often used for older commercial properties in the area
How Roof Types Compare (For Burke’s Climate and Budget)
| Material Type | Lifespan | Wind Resistance | Maintenance | Warranty Options |
| 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles | 20–25 years | Moderate | Low | Up to 25 years |
| Architectural Shingles | 30–35 years | Good | Low | Up to 50 years |
| Standing Seam Metal | 40–70 years | Excellent | Very Low | Up to 40 years |
| Synthetic Slate/Cedar | 50+ years | Excellent | Very Low | Up to 50 years |
No matter the roof type, installation is everything.
We don’t subcontract our work. Every crew is trained by us and works directly for us. That means better quality control and better outcomes for you. Our inspections are done in person. No drones or guesswork—just an honest assessment and a clear recommendation.
Frequently Asked Roofing Questions from Burke Homeowners
If you’re trying to make sense of your options or timing, you’re not alone. We’ve worked with thousands of homeowners across Burke and Northern Virginia, and many of the same questions come up. Below are some of the most common ones—answered plainly and honestly.
What’s the most common roofing material used in Burke?
The most common roofing material used in Burke is architectural asphalt shingles. These shingles offer a great balance of durability, weather resistance, and appearance, which is why they’re the top choice for most local homes.
How do I know if I need a new roof or just a repair?
You may need a new roof—or just a repair—depending on the condition of your current system. If you see missing shingles, water stains, leaks after storms, or signs of age like curling or granule loss, it’s time for an inspection. We’ll let you know if a repair is enough or if replacement makes more sense.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Burke?
Yes, you need a permit to replace your roof in Burke. Fairfax County requires permits for most full roof replacements, and our team handles the entire permitting process so you don’t have to deal with it.
What does a roof replacement cost in Burke?
A typical roof replacement in Burke costs around $10,000 for asphalt shingles. Prices can vary depending on roof size, pitch, layers to remove, and the type of materials you choose. Metal and synthetic options usually cost more but last longer.
Can I install a metal roof if I live in an HOA community?
You may be able to install a metal roof in an HOA neighborhood, but it depends on your association’s rules. Some HOAs allow standing seam metal roofs with approved colors and styles. We can help you gather the details and submit them for approval if needed.
What kind of warranty does Master Roofing & Siding offer?
Master Roofing & Siding offers up to 10 years of workmanship warranty and up to 50 years of product warranty, depending on the roofing system and manufacturer. We’re certified with CertainTeed and Tamko, which means we can offer their extended warranty programs when we install a full system.
Do you help with roofing insurance claims?
Yes, we help with roofing insurance claims for storm damage. We’ll meet with your adjuster if needed, compare their scope of work with what’s actually required, and help you ensure nothing important is missed. We don’t use contracts or contingency agreements—you stay in control.
Final Thoughts: We’re Here When You’re Ready
There’s a lot to consider when replacing a roof, and the internet isn’t always helpful. We hope this guide gave you a clearer view of your options and what really works in Burke.
We’ve been part of this community for nearly 50 years. Our crews have installed roofs on the same homes multiple times—not because we messed up the first one, but because that’s how long we’ve been around. Our work holds up. And when it doesn’t, we’re here to fix it.
If you’re ready to talk, schedule your estimate today. We’ll check things out, walk you through your options, and answer your questions plainly—just like we’ve always done.
Or call us directly at 703-546-9477. We’re happy to help.
