Diamond-shaped roof shingles have enjoyed a long history on distinctive buildings and residences, and they're enjoying something of a comeback. Still used on homes in which the roof is not just a roof but a statement, you can find diamond shingles in a number of different materials. Does that mean anyone can slap up a diamond shingle roof? Well, technically, yes - but since all roofing materials are NOT considered equal, here's why your beautiful diamond shingle roof should be made of metal:

1. Performance and lifespan

No matter what shape it is, a petroleum-based asphalt composition shingle has a limited lifespan, and it's going to look old and worn out long before the end of its service life. 

Diamond shingles are available in stunning natural metals like copper and there are amazing painted steel options as well. Not only are these materials downright beautiful, they're incredibly durable, lightweight and long-lasting. You won't have any of the issues presented by comp shingles (wind blow-off problems, fading, patching, ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement), so if the performance of your roof matters as much as how it looks, you need to consider metal.

2. A material worthy of the profile

If your home is a source of pride - enough that you'd even consider something unusual and attention-grabbing like a diamond shingle - why roof it with a material that's proven to be temporary? Beautiful, permanent copper diamonds, natural steel diamonds, porcelain-coated steel diamonds and even exotic zinc diamonds offer the many benefits of metal with a cachet that equals this out-of-the-ordinary roof profile.

3. Going whole hog

Even in "cheap" asphalt composition, you'll pay a premium for the diamond profile. If you're willing to consider the price upgrade for the shape of the roof material alone (which is purely aesthetic-driven), you should at least consider it for the performance of the material from which it's made! Going whole hog - from the profile to the material to the installer you choose to put it on - means not cutting corners and potentially setting yourself up for costly, time-consuming repairs and replacements down the road.