There are many different types of roof shingles you can choose to replace or have installed on your home. Each one has different benefits, costs, materials, and style. Deciding which shingle works for you can be daunting. It is a long term investment in your home, so you want to make the right choice. We will break down the most common options for you so that you can be confident that you have made the right decision.
Here are 5 common types of roof shingles explained:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most affordable to install. They are the most common type of shingle that homeowners choose. There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab asphalt, fiberglass asphalt, and architectural style asphalt shingles. 3 tab asphalt shingles are the most affordable shingle to install but they are thinner, have an organic-mat paper base, and wear out more quickly than fiberglass or architectural shingles. Thespruce.com offers Asphalt Shingles Review: Pros, Cons, and Costs to help determine if this is the right option for you.
Bottom line: easy to install, budget friendly, comes in multiple color options, and lasts 15 to 20 years.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are more durable than asphalt shingle options in comparison to 3 tab asphalt shingles. They give off a sculpted look and have an extra laminate layer which contours them to look a bit more designed. Architectural shingles cost a bit more to install. They come in more luxurious looking styles that homeowners prefer and can even simulate wood shake designs. Though they are more expensive, they can last up to twice as long as 3-tab asphalt shingles.
Bottom line: higher tier type of asphalt roof that is easy to install, has gorgeous aesthetics, comes in multiple color options, and lasts 30 – 50 years
Metal Roof Shingles
Metal roof shingles are stylish in appearance and there are many different color options available to pick from. They are easily to install, and they are very lightweight, making them a good option for homes with a roof system that cannot support heavier options. They have one of the longest lifespans in comparison to other roof types. The five most common metal roofing materials include aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc.
Bottom line: easy to install, modern look, multiple color options, lasts 75 to 100 years
Wood Shingled Roofs
Wooden roof shingles are composed from several different types of wood that are split into thin sections. There are two style options of wooden roofs called wood shake or wood shingles. The difference between the two is that wood shingles are cut into perfect shapes while wood shakes are sawn off and hand split to give it a more rustic look. Bobvilla.com has The Basics: Wood Shingles and Shakes.
Bottom Line: very aesthetically pleasing and unique, weather resistant, lasts 15 to 50 years
Slate Tile Roofing Shingles
Slate roofing shingles are a stone roofing material that is installed as a shingle. Slate shingles are thin but very heavy when the whole roof is made out of them. Slate has a natural beauty to it that many people appreciate, but the shingles do not really vary in color or looks. Slate tiles are more difficult to install but when done properly they will give you one of the longest-lasting roof options available. Slate shingles come with an expensive price tag, but that does not mean that slate is not a great roof type option if you can afford it.
Bottom Line: more difficult to install, unique and beautiful, very durable and weather resistant, lasts 60 to 150 years
Dynasty Restoration has the experts available to help you select the perfect shingle for your home’s roof. Call (402) 932-6419 or complete our online request form for a free consultation and estimate.
