Over millennia, people have surfaced their homes with just about anything that would hold the weather out, from animal skins to tree bark. Today’s roofing options are the result of eons of invention and experimentation.

Some—such as slate and wood shakes—have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Others, such as asphalt/fiberglass composites, lightweight concrete, and coated-metal tile are products of the technological revolution. Each has slightly different durability, appearance, cost, and ease of application.

Though most contemporary roofs look as though they’re made almost entirely of shingles or tiles, roofs are actually waterproofing systems made up of a variety of components that work together. These systems include framing, sheathing, underlayment, flashing, and finish roofing.