6 Types of Roof Shingles That Will Transform Your Home

The selection of your roof shingle has a significant impact on the strength of your roof, its overall cost, and various other factors. The good news is that many roof shingle options are available to accommodate every budget, aesthetic preference, and homeowner’s needs.

However, the task can sometimes feel like Goldilocks searching for the perfect bowl of porridge (or chair, bed, or any other version). Discovering the ideal roof shingle that suits your unique situation, budget constraints, and personal style is essential. The following discussion outlines six shingle types: asphalt, slate, clay, metal, tile, and wood.

Asphalt Shingle

Asphalt roofing is popular for its waterproofing capabilities, featuring asphalt as its primary material. Due to its budget-friendly nature and ease of installation, it is one of North America’s most prevalent roofing options. Asphalt shingles come in three distinct varieties: architectural style asphalt shingles, fiberglass asphalt shingles, and 3-tab shingles.

Although 3-tab asphalt shingles are budget-friendly, their organic paper base can lead to quicker deterioration, raising durability concerns. Architectural shingle roofs are the most resilient among the three options mentioned. Thanks to their robust build, they can endure for over 50 years when maintained correctly.

Metal Shingle Roofs

Metal roofing, a time-tested option dating back to the 1800s, continues to be a favored selection in modern times. Various metals, including aluminum, zinc, steel, copper, and zinc, are preferred materials for roofing. Although metal roofing is expensive, its impressive longevity (often over 70 years) and appealing aesthetics justify the investment.

The pivotal aspect of metal roofing lies in its installation process. Insufficient skill on the part of your contractor may result in future complications. Additionally, there is a prevalent misconception regarding the demanding upkeep of metal roofs. To debunk this myth, stress that a well-installed metal roof needs minimal maintenance.

Wood Shingle Roofs

Many homeowners prefer wood shingles over other types due to their natural appearance and texture. Made from top-notch hardwoods, wood shingles cost more than asphalt shingles, with installation ranging from $400 to $700 per square foot. A natural wood shingle roof typically falls within the price range of $6,800 to $20,000.

However, it’s important to note that natural wood shingles are susceptible to fire. You can opt for simulated wood shingles made from recycled plastic or rubber for enhanced fire protection. While these alternatives come at a slightly higher cost, ranging from $12,600 to $18,900, they offer excellent value. Wood shingles have a lifespan of at least 30 years and can extend up to 50 years with proper installation.

Slate Tile Shingle

Slate could be a suitable choice if you plan to reside in your home for many decades due to its exceptional durability. With natural stone, roofs often endure for 50 to 100 years. Slate roofs exhibit impressive resilience against high winds and extreme temperatures, boast fire-resistant properties, and effectively repel water.

Apart from its beauty, the slate’s remarkable durability, lasting for a century or longer, makes it ideal for diverse climates. It can withstand wind, resist moisture, and reduce fire hazards. Opting for slate roofing signifies a wise and enduring investment. However, there are certain drawbacks to consider. While slate roofs offer remarkable longevity, they can be pricey, often 2-3 times asphalt shingles.

Clay Roof Shingle

Terracotta tiles/clay shingles are favored in warm climates for their excellent heat absorption, making them a top choice for cool roofing. These eco-friendly clay roof shingles boast exceptional durability, fire resistance, recyclability, immunity to decay, and resilience against harsh weather conditions. While clay shingles often come in classic earthy tones like red and brown, they also offer various colors and textures.

Clay shingles blend perfectly with classic and modern architecture, providing various design options, including flat, scalloped, Spanish, and French styles. Despite their higher initial cost, clay shingles provide low-maintenance durability, saving homeowners significantly in the long run. Clay roof shingles boast an impressive lifespan of 80-100 years.

Tile Shingle Roofs

As a roofing option, tile shingles present exceptional value and enduring performance. Compared to traditional asphalt shingle roofs, tile roofs offer many advantages. They boast easier installation, maintenance, and repair processes, simplifying the overall upkeep of your home. Moreover, tile roofs enhance insulation and energy efficiency while elevating your property’s aesthetic appeal and curb value.

These versatile roofs come in various shapes and sizes, accommodating different architectural needs. Flat tile roofs are typically preferred for commercial structures like warehouses, factories, and retail outlets. In contrast, pitched roofs are the standard choice for residential properties, including single-family homes and multi-family apartment complexes. Curved tile roofs, on the other hand, are a frequent choice for contemporary structures such as condominiums and office buildings.

Selecting the perfect roof shingles for your needs might seem daunting when you are uncertain about the ideal choice. Nevertheless, you can rely on Lexington Blue to provide the comprehensive assistance you require. With our customer-first approach, we treat your home as our own, giving it the utmost care and attention.