The 6 Best Types Of Roof Shingles For Residential Roofing

Most residential properties in North America have shingled roofs. However, most property owners do not know the types of roof shingles there are beyond the common asphalt and wooden ones. If you are one of those property owners or if you are looking for roof shingle options beyond the traditional ones, this article is for you.

All roofing shingles can be divided into six major types; Asphalt shingles, Composite Shingles, Slate shingles, Wooden shingles, Clay and Concrete Shingles.

In this article, we will be discussing each of these shingles in detail. Along with their sub-types, pros, cons, cost, life span and more. You will also find a section that helps you choose the best roofing shingle for your property. So, by the end of this article, you can select the type of shingles you what to go for.

This is a complete guide to different types of roofing shingles!

Types of roof shingles

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material commonly used on residential and commercial buildings. They are made from a base of fibreglass or organic materials impregnated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules for added protection from the elements.

Overall, asphalt shingles are a popular roofing option due to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation.

Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles

Fibreglass Asphalt Shingles are a type of roofing material made of a fibreglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules. Fibreglass asphalt shingles are composed of a woven fibreglass mat that provides strength and stability to the shingle.

Lifespan:

• Typically, it last 20-30 years, but it can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance and installation.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Resistant to fire and UV rays
• Come in a variety of colours and styles

Cons:

• Not as durable as some other roofing materials
• Can crack or blister in extreme weather conditions
• May not be suitable for areas with high winds or hail

Cost:

• The cost of fibreglass asphalt shingles typically ranges from $70-$120 per square (100 square feet), including installation. The cost may vary depending on the quality and style of the shingles.

Organic Asphalt Shingles

Organic asphalt shingles are roofing materials made from a base mat of organic felt, which is then saturated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules to give added protection and improve durability.

Lifespan:

• Generally, have a shorter lifespan than their fibreglass counterparts
• Last an average of 15-20 years

Pros:

• More flexible and easier to install than fibreglass shingles
• More affordable than fibreglass shingles
• Made from natural materials and are biodegradable

Cons:

• Not as durable as fibreglass shingles and can be more prone to cracking and warping
• More susceptible to moisture damage and may not hold up as well in humid or wet climates
• Not as fire-resistant as fibreglass shingles

Cost:

• Can cost anywhere from $0.80 to $1.20 per square foot including installation.

Three-tab Shingles 

Three-tab shingles are a type of asphalt shingle that consists of three uniform tabs that are evenly spaced and aligned to give the appearance of a more uniform and symmetrical roof.

Lifespan:

• Typically they last 15-25 years, depending on the quality and environment.

Pros:

• Lower cost compared to other types of shingles.
• Lightweight and easy to install.
• Available in a variety of colours.
• Suitable for most residential roofing systems.

Cons:

• Less durable and more prone to wind damage than other types of asphalt shingles.
• Only available in one size and shape, limiting design options.
• May not be suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions.

Cost:

• Three-tab shingles are one of the most affordable types of shingles, ranging from $50 to $150 per square (100 square feet) for materials and installation, depending on location and quality.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are a type of asphalt shingle that is designed to mimic the appearance of natural materials such as slate or cedar stake.

Lifespan:

• Typically, they last between 25 and 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingle and the climate where they are installed.

Pros:

• More durable and longer-lasting than traditional three-tab shingles.
• Resistant to strong winds, hail, and other weather-related damage.
• Available in a variety of colours and styles to match any home’s aesthetic.
• Can increase a home’s curb appeal and resale value.

Cons:

• More expensive than traditional three-tab shingles.
• Can be more difficult to install, as they require a more precise installation.
• May not be suitable for all roof types, such as flat or low-slope roofs.

Cost:

• On average, architectural shingles cost between $0.80 and $1.50 per square foot, which is more expensive than traditional three-tab shingles.

Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are roofing materials made from a mixture of materials, such as asphalt, fibreglass, and recycled paper products. They are designed to mimic the appearance of traditional materials, such as slate, wood, or clay.

Lifespan:

• Composite shingles typically have a lifespan of 15 to 50 years, depending on the quality and type of shingle installed.
• Premium composite shingles can have a lifespan of up to 50 years.

Pros:

• Affordable: Composite shingles are typically more affordable than other roofing materials, such as slate or clay.
• Easy to install: They are easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.
• Low maintenance: They require minimal maintenance and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Variety: Composite shingles come in a variety of colours and styles, making it easy to find a shingle that complements the style of your home.

Cons:

• Lifespan: The lifespan of composite shingles is shorter than other roofing materials, such as slate or clay.
• Durability: Composite shingles can be less durable than other roofing materials and can be prone to cracking or warping in extreme weather conditions.
• Environmental impact: Composite shingles are not the most environmentally friendly option, as they are made from non-renewable resources and can contribute to landfills.

Cost:

• The cost of composite shingles varies depending on the quality and type of shingle, as well as the size of your roof.
• On average, composite shingles cost between $3 and $6 per square foot, including installation.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are roofing tiles made from natural slate rock. They are a durable and attractive roofing option that can last for over a century when properly installed and maintained.

Lifespan:

• Can last for over 100 years whit regular care and maintenance.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Attractive and natural appearance
• Fire-resistant
• Resistant to rot and insects
• Low maintenance

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other roofing materials
• Heavy and requires a sturdy base structure.
• Can break if walked on or hit with heavy objects
• May require skilled professionals for installation and repair

Cost:

• On average, slate shingles cost between $15 and $25 per square foot, making them one of the most expensive roofing options available.

Wooden Shingles

Wooden shingles, also known as wood shake shingles, are a type of roofing material made from wooden logs that are split into thin, tapered pieces. They are a popular choice for homeowners who desire a natural, rustic look to their homes.

Lifespan:

• The lifespan of wooden shingles depends on the quality of the wood used, the installation, and the climate of the area.
• On average, they can last for 20 to 40 years.

Pros:

• Wooden shingles are aesthetically pleasing and can add value to a home.
• They are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain and wind.
• They provide natural insulation, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs.
• They are eco-friendly and sustainable, especially if made from reclaimed or recycled wood.

Cons:

• Wooden shingles require regular maintenance, such as cleaning, staining, and sealing, to prevent rot, mold, and insect infestations.
• They are vulnerable to fire and may not be suitable for areas prone to wildfires.
• They can be more expensive than other types of roofing materials.
• They are not as durable as other materials, such as metal or concrete.

Cost:

• The cost of wooden shingles depends on several factors, including the quality of the wood, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the home.
• On average, wooden shingles can cost between $6 to $12 per square foot, making them a more expensive option compared to asphalt shingles.

Clay And Concrete Shingles

Clay and Concrete Shingles are made from natural clay or concrete. These materials are shaped into shingles and used to cover the roof of a building.

Lifespan:

• The lifespan of up to 100 years with proper maintenance.
• May require replacement if cracked or broken due to extreme weather conditions.

Pros:

• Fire-resistant.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Resistant to rot and insect damage.
• Energy efficient.
• Provides excellent insulation.
• Low maintenance.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other roofing materials
• Heavy, which may require additional roof support
• Fragile and may break during installation
• Limited colour options

Cost:

• Cost varies depending on the type of clay used, installation costs, and geographic location
• Generally, ranges from $10 to $18 per square foot

Buyers Guide To Choosing The Best Type of roof Shingle For Your Roof

Choosing the best shingles for your roof is an important decision, as your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Here are some factors to consider when selecting shingles for your roof:

1. Material: Shingles can be made from various materials as discussed above. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing a material that suits your needs and budget is important.

1. Climate: Your location and climate play a significant role in the type of shingles you should choose. For example, in areas with heavy rainfall or snow, you may want to consider shingles resistant to water and ice.
2. Style: Shingles come in various styles, including architectural, 3-tab, designer, etc. The style you choose can impact the overall aesthetic of your home, so it’s important to choose a style that complements your home’s design.
3. Colour: The colour of your shingles can also impact your home’s aesthetic. Consider choosing a colour that complements your home’s exterior, is energy-efficient, and can help reduce your home’s energy costs.
4. Warranty: Look for shingles that come with a manufacturer’s warranty. A warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring you will be covered for a defect or other issue with your shingles.
5. Price: Finally, consider your budget when selecting shingles for your roof. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you don’t want to overspend on shingles beyond your budget. Make sure you get the best shingles for your budget that suits your climatic conditions.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best shingles for your roof and ensure your home is protected for years. You can also, approach a roofing contractor for help.

Conclusion

These six types of shingles along with their subtypes are the shingles available in the market as of now. We hope all your questions regarding these shingles are cleared by this article. If not, feel free to ask your question in the comment section we’ll get back to you soon.

Also, if you need help to repair, replace or maintain your shingled roof connect with us anytime.

Leak-Stop is a one-stop destination to meet your roofing-related requirements. We offer roof repair, replacement, maintenance and inspection services all over GVRD (Greater Vancouver Regional District).

We offer a free inspection to first-time clients. Connect with us TODAY at 1 866 777 0084 for immediate assistance!