Installing roofing systems needs research and careful planning. So, the roofing industry has dozens of options for a new roof. This variety makes your choice of durable roof material for your next residential roofing project more complex.
So, what are the best types of shingles for roofing? The answer depends on several factors, so it’s best to consult your local roofing contractor for the types of roof shingles that suit your needs.
This guide covers the nine popular roofing materials for a home and what makes them unique.
9 Popular Options for Roofing Shingles
Roofing shingles are a popular material option for many homes. Shingles are easy to transport, simple to install and provide an attractive and functional roofing system. Alternatively, many shingle types are available, all of which can be terrific choices for a new roof on your home.
- Standard asphalt shingle types
- Premium asphalt shingles (3-tab)
- Fiberglass composite shingles (dimensional)
- Luxury architectural shingles
- Metal shingles
- Wood shake shingles
- Slate roofing shingles
- Clay tiles
- Solar panels
Traditional Asphalt Shingles
The most popular roofing material is asphalt shingles, also called strip shingles. This type of roof shingles is available in 2, 3, or 4-tab models, providing an excellent barrier against the elements. In addition, standard asphalt shingles are highly affordable, readily available, and durable enough to last for 15 to 20 years when you take care of them.
Asphalt shingles need a minimum roof pitch of 3:12 or higher for the best installation results.
3-Tab Shingles
3-tab roofing shingles are also known as strip shingles but offer additional visual benefits than other asphalt shingles. They are easy to install and fit together with three separate asphalt tabs on each shingle piece. Using this roofing shingle type allows for easy repairs and replacements when there is damage from extreme weather.
These asphalt roofing shingles lay flat on the roofing deck, providing a uniform look.
Dimensional Shingles
Dimensional shingles, sometimes known as laminate shingles, consist of fiberglass and asphalt materials with minerals for a more durable roof shingle option. Rather than a flat surface, dimensional shingles provide depth and curb appeal.
Luxury Architectural Shingles
For a more high-end roofing shingle choice, luxury asphalt shingles are a heavier alternative for optimal protection from the elements. In addition, they are more durable and require less care and maintenance than thinner products. Homeowners may notice less possibility of damage after a hail storm when using luxury architectural shingles on their roofs.
In addition, these architectural shingles provide more color options and a customized appearance for your home as designer shingles.
Metal Roof Shingles
Metal roofing shingles can be the answer for homeowners who want a roofing solution other than asphalt shingles. Steel shingles have exceptional fire resistance, and many homeowners consider them luxury shingles.
They cost more than asphalt shingles on a traditional roof, but they offer various material choices, such as copper roofing, standing seam metal roofs, and corrugated steel roofing solutions. The minimum roof slope for standing seam metal shingles is 2:12.
Wood Shingles
Another common asphalt roofing alternative is using real wood shingles instead of metal roofing or asphalt shingles. Many professional roofing contractors offer wood shingles and shakes in various suitable roofing materials, from cedar, pine, and oak trees.
Wood shingles are a more expensive roofing material than asphalt, providing premium shingles for homes looking for a more aesthetically pleasing roof. However, these products do require regular treatments for maintenance and care for optimal water resistance.
Wood shake shingles require at least 3:12 roof pitches to install for adequate protection.
Slate Tiles
Slate shingles use natural stone materials for unique individual shingles that are highly durable and appealing. It is one of the longest-used materials in the roofing industry. However, they are only suitable for some homes because of their extreme weight. Homes that use slate roofing shingles need proper support from a durable roof deck.
Slate tile materials work best on a roof with a pitch of 8:12 or higher.
Concrete and Clay Tile Roofing Shingles
Another roofing option for homeowners looking for an attractive and durable roof will prefer concrete and clay tiles over asphalt shingles or other types of roofing shingles. However, like slate tile, clay and concrete tiles are heavy and require the proper support for a proper installation.
Concrete and clay can last up to a century and have extreme fire and water resistance, making them a great choice for some structures. However, the minimum slope for clay and concrete tiles is 2.5:12.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are a premium technology for generating energy for homeowners looking for a more energy-efficient roofing solution. Solar panels are a more durable roofing material than traditional asphalt shingles and can have designs that look like asphalt or composition shingles for a more aesthetic appearance.
Homes with a roof pitch of 7.5:12 or higher will work best for installing solar panels on a roof.
How To Choose Your Best Roofing Option
If you are trying to decide on the best roofing shingles for your home, knowing the available options in the market will help make a choice easier. Some considerations if you need a roof replacement include:
- Your budget
- Existing roof support
- The roof pitch
- Local weather conditions
- Energy efficiency
- Maintenance and care requirements
- Durability
It can help to consult a professional roofing contractor when you need roofing repairs or installation. These roofing experts have the training and knowledge to help guide your decision for the best option for your home.
Wrapping Up
The types of roofing shingles available in the industry are suitable for many structures. Knowing what your home can support will help you narrow down the ideal choices. These nine popular shingles can be on homes in your neighborhood right now.
Using extensive research is beneficial in the decision-making process. For example, the shingles your home needs should protect the structure from the elements, help make your house more energy efficient, and increase its curb appeal.
