What Are The Different Types Of Shingles?

Making the finest choice of roof shingle for your home when it comes time to replace your roof can be a huge undertaking.

There are so many different shingle varieties available today, each with their own benefits and drawbacks as well as price and design variations.

It can quickly become overpowering.

It's a good idea to be aware of what you're getting into and what to anticipate from the sorts of roof shingles you choose because a new roof is a sizable investment.

We'll go over a number of various roofing shingle kinds that you can take into consideration for your roof replacement in the article that follows.

How To Make The Best Shingle Selection

Choosing the right roof shingle for you might be difficult because there are so many options available, from metal shingles to common asphalt shingles.

Roofing materials come in a wide range of designs, hues, textures, and costs.

Some roof shingles are sold individually, while others come in strips.

The aesthetic you wish to achieve should be your primary consideration when selecting the type of shingle.

  • Do you favor traditional designs like cedar or wood shakes?

  • Do you prefer more contemporary music, such as copper or black metal?

  • Do you desire the ability to set up solar panels?

  • Do you prefer minimal maintenance items or are you content with routine upkeep?


As with cooler regions, hot climates require particular considerations.

Next, decide on the material based on the amount of wear it will endure.

Older homes frequently have asphalt shingles because they are less expensive and simpler to install.

However, compared to other solutions, asphalt shingles tend to fade over time and need to be replaced more frequently.

Because they perform better and last longer, composition shingles are frequently found on newer homes.

They are often more robust and long-lasting than asphalt shingles.

Finally, think about the price.

Although the initial cost of premium shingles will be more, they will endure longer.

There are several different price points for asphalt shingles.

There are less expensive asphalt shingle options available, but they aren't as as resilient as more expensive types.

Choose a brand that gives warranties that are supported by reliable manufacturers.

Types Of Shingles

Now that you've researched your roofing alternatives, let's look at some of the most popular shingle kinds you can select from.

Asphalt Shingles

One form of shingle that is used frequently is asphalt shingle roofing.

For homeowners looking for a roofing upgrade that is affordable, reliable, and effective, asphalt is a great choice.

Homeowners with a particular idea or a distinctive home design can find a roof they adore because asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of shapes and designs.

Asphalt shingles can also help keep your house cool, and some varieties can even help you save money on your insurance.

The most fundamental type of asphalt shingle is the 3-tab variety, which is created by cutting a single layer of asphalt into strips.

When installed, they have a flat appearance and give your roof a slate appearance.

Due to their lightweight construction from a single strip of material, 3-tab shingles are less expensive than most other varieties of asphalt shingles.

If you want a roofing material that will last the longest and be the most durable, asphalt shingles aren't your greatest choice. Other roofing materials offer more sturdiness and lifespan, such as metal roofing.

Although they are naturally fire-resistant, asphalt shingles are less wind- and storm-resistant than some other types of roofing.


Aluminum Shingles

Due to the numerous advantages that metal roofing has over conventional asphalt shingle roofs, it is becoming more and more popular.

Aluminum shingles have a long lifespan and are strong, adaptable, and beautiful.

They are simpler to install because they are lighter than steel. Additionally, unlike asphalt, metal is recyclable.

When compared to other forms of roofing materials, aluminum shingles are heavy.

For instance, wood shakes weigh around 20% less than metal roofing.

Aluminum shingles are more difficult to handle during installation due to the weight differential.

However, there are techniques to simplify the installation of aluminum shingles.

You can put the shingles into place with the aid of a power auger. Or you can employ a unique device called a "shaker."

A shaker, which functions like a drill press, aids in installing the shingled roof.

But working with your neighborhood roofing firm is the best way to get these done.


Wood Shingles

Real wood shingles are constructed from wood, as the name suggests.

There isn't much design versatility because wood shingles are carved into exact, similar forms.

Though they offer a distinctive aesthetic that many homeowners adore, wood shingles are also prone to decay and mold if not properly maintained.

Similar to asphalt shingles, wood shingles have a lifespan of 15 to 50 years.

Everything depends on the kind of wood used for the shingles, the preparation of the wood, the caliber of the installation, and the level of roof maintenance.


Wood Shake Shingles

Because they are simple to install, wood shakes are one of the most used roofing materials.

These can also be laid over pre-existing concrete or asphalt shingles and come in a variety of designs and colors.

You must be aware of the type of wood you are obtaining if you decide to go with wood shaking shingles.

Wood shaking shingles are commonly made from three types of wood: cedar, redwood, and pine. Every type has advantages and disadvantages.

Shingles made of cedar wood shakes are incredibly strong and long-lasting. They are very resistant to termites and fire damage.

Typically more expensive than other varieties of wood shaking shingles, cedar shingles are made of wood. They are the best option, though, for people who want to live longer.

Similar to cedar shake shingles, redwood shake shingles are tougher and more robust.

The least expensive alternative and simpler to install than redwood shake shingles are pine shake shingles.

But unlike cedar shake shingles, they are not resistant to fire or termite damage.


Copper Shingles

Copper shingles are a fantastic method to add value to your home while giving it a distinctive appearance.

Copper shingles may assist raise the price of your home if you intend to sell it in the future.

Copper roofing, however, might not be worthwhile if you have no immediate plans to move.

The size of the area that needs to be covered determines how much it will typically cost to construct a copper roof.

If you choose to use copper roofing, you should check with your neighborhood building department to determine what licenses are required for the installation of the material.

Additionally, you must make sure the roof complies with all regulations.


Rubber Shingles

For homeowners searching for a long-lasting substitute for conventional asphalt roofing goods, rubber roof shingles are a terrific option.

These materials are perfect for both home and commercial applications because they are simple to install and maintain.

The styles of rubber roof shingles include flat, standing seam, and modified lap joint.


Composite shingles

For homeowners searching for a less expensive roof replacement, composite shingles are popular.

As well as cardboard, paper, plastic bottles, wood, glass, and even aluminum foil, they are frequently created from recycled materials.

Composite shingles may be more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, but they have many advantages over asphalt roofs.


Grass (Green) Roof

Homes in regions where it becomes hot in the summer and cold in the winter are suited for grass roofs.

These roofs are well-liked because they save energy and keep dwellings warmer and cooler in the winter and summer, respectively.

Grass roofs are highly practical in addition to being attractive.

Here are some benefits of grass roofs for homeowners.

  • A green roof is attractive.

  • Grass roofs lower the cost of heating and cooling.

  • Grass roofs require little upkeep.

  • Grass roofs are simple to erect.

  • Grass roofs increase a home's value.

  • Grass roofs are favorable to the environment.


Architectural Shingles

This choice, sometimes known as laminate shingles or dimensional shingles, frequently has a cedar or slate-like appearance.

Architectural shingles give your roof a distinctive appeal by simulating real wood.

Since they are significantly more expensive than ordinary asphalt shingles, you should make sure you understand everything before making the purchase.


Metal Shingles

There are several different kinds of metal roofing, including stainless steel, galvanized steel, copper, and aluminum.

There are benefits to each form of metal roofing over the others.

For instance, aluminum is cheap, lightweight, and simple to deal with. Strong and corrosive-resistant is copper.

Galvanized steel appeals to homeowners searching for something familiar because it resembles typical asphalt shingles.

Zinc resists mold development better than most metals, making it a suitable choice for houses with high humidity levels.

Because it lasts longer than other materials, stainless steel is frequently utilized in commercial applications.


Tile Shingles

A tile roof provides outstanding value and enduring performance.

In comparison to conventional asphalt shingle roofs, tile roofs have a number of benefits.

They are more simpler to set up, keep up, and fix.

They enhance insulation and energy efficiency, look lovely, and improve the curb appeal of your home.

Tile roofs can be flat, sloped, or curved, among other sizes and shapes. Commercial structures including warehouses, factories, and retail stores frequently have flat roofs.

Residential buildings with pitched roofs, such as single-family homes and multi-family apartment buildings, are common.

Modern buildings with curved roofs include apartment complexes and office towers.

Slate Shingles

Because they are so strong, slate shingles can last for many generations.

The majority of homeowners find it difficult to afford slate tile roof shingles due to its high cost.

Additionally heavy and difficult to install is slate roofing.

The cost of installing a whole slate roof on a home prevents many homeowners from doing so.

There are many different colors and patterns available for synthetic slate shingles.

It is simple and affordable to install synthetic slate shingles.

Usually, this kind of shingle is less expensive than a slate roof in its entirety.

Synthetic slate shingles, however, do not endure as long as a roof made of genuine slate.

The weight of a standard slate roof is 50 pounds per square foot.

Due to its weight, a slate roof can resist severe weather without leaking.

Solar shingles

Why don't we use the sun to power our homes if it is always shining?

What solar shingles do is this.

Sunlight is converted into energy by the solar cells that are affixed to these roof tiles.

You also won't have to spend extra money installing a special roof system because they are installed on top of existing roofs rather than having to pull off old shingles.

However, even though it might seem like a no-brainer, there are some important concerns that must be handled before these tiles can become widely used.

The price is the first thing. Second, consider how long the materials will last.

Contrary to what most people believe, these tiles actually deteriorate with time.

The issue of how much electricity each panel generates comes in third.

A typical home may be able to reduce its annual energy bill by up to 10%, according to some estimates.

Having trouble deciding which shingle is best for you?

When it comes to picking between various types of roof shingles, there are a ton of possibilities.

They can cost a lot differently and each have their own advantages.

There are good and bad choices.

Despite the fact that we are blessed to have so many excellent roofing options, it can be challenging to choose one.

Consult with a reputable roofing firm to determine what is best for your roof.

The roofers from TK Roofing and Gutters have been giving Northeast Ohio clients the best roofing services available for more than 15 years.

We treat your home as if it were our own and make sure it receives the respect and care it requires by putting our customers first.

We are able to provide the longest warranties in the business because we are a CertainTeed certified roofing provider.

If asphalt shingles are what we decide are ideal for your roof, this includes a 50-year warranty with no questions asked.

Your asphalt shingle roof will survive as long as some metal roofs thanks to that warranty.

We are experts in insurance as well.

If a storm, strong winds, or a lot of snow caused damage to your home, we can start the insurance process for you.

To learn how Ohio's Best Roof Contractors can assist you in selecting the ideal roof shingle for your new roof call us today at (330) 858-2616