Choosing the right roof shingles is key to your home’s look and safety. There are many options like asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and more. Think about durability, cost, and style when picking.
Asphalt shingles are the top choice for homes in the U.S. They’re affordable and work well.
It’s smart to look at all the shingle types and their good and bad points. We’ll go into more detail on popular roofing materials. This will help you pick the best shingles for your home.
Asphalt Shingles: The Most Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles are the top choice for many American homeowners. They make up over 75% of all roofing materials in the U.S. Their appeal comes from being affordable, durable, and versatile. You can choose from three main types: 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and premium designer shingles.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
3-tab shingles are the most basic and affordable option. They make up about 60% of the asphalt shingle market. These shingles have a uniform look and last about 15 years under good conditions.
The cheapest 3-tab shingles, like CertainTeed’s XT 25 and GAF’s Royal Sovereign, are the most budget-friendly. They are great for those looking for an affordable choice.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Architectural shingles, or dimensional shingles, make up about 30% of the market. They offer a more textured look and last 25 years or more. These shingles cost about 25% more than 3-tab shingles but are more durable and resistant to wind.
Timberline HDZ by GAF is the best-selling asphalt shingle in North America. It can withstand wind speeds of up to 130 mph.
Premium Designer Asphalt Shingles
Premium designer shingles make up about 10% of the market. They look like slate or wood shake and last around 30 years. But, they can be up to 10 times more expensive than dimensional shingles.
Shingles like GAF’s Grand Sequoia AS and Timberline AS II are flexible. They can achieve a UL impact resistance rating of UL 2218 Class 4.
Metal Roofing: Durability and Longevity
Metal roofs are a top choice for many homeowners. They can last from 40 to 80 years, much longer than asphalt shingle roofs. Copper and zinc shingles can last over 70 years, and up to 100 years in some cases.
Metal roofs are very resilient. They can handle wind gusts of up to 140 mph or more. They also have a Class A fire rating, making them very fire-resistant.
Homeowners can save a lot on energy with a metal roof. Metal roofs can reflect solar radiation, reducing cooling costs by up to 25%. Some roofs can even re-emit up to 90% of solar radiation, saving even more energy.
While metal roofs cost more upfront, they offer long-term value. The average cost for a 2,300 square-foot roof is about $11,000. But, they need little maintenance and last a long time, making them a good investment.
Metal roofs are also eco-friendly. They are made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their life. This makes them a great choice for those who care about the environment.
Slate Roofing: Natural Beauty and Resilience
Slate roofing is a luxurious choice that adds a unique, high-end look to homes. It’s known for its natural beauty and unmatched durability. A slate roof can last over a century with the right installation and care. Even though it costs more upfront, its long life and beauty make it a great investment for many.
Natural Slate Roofing
Natural slate comes from the earth, making each tile unique. It’s very durable, lasting 75 to 200 years. But, natural slate can cost between $600 to $1,500 per square (100 square feet) for materials alone. Installation adds another $1,000 to $2,500 per square.
Other things to think about include:
- Natural slate tiles are heavy, needing a strong roof structure
- Installing it is complex and takes longer than other materials
- It needs yearly checks and repairs for chips or cracks
Synthetic Slate Roofing
Synthetic slate looks like natural slate but costs less and is lighter. Made from recycled materials, it’s more affordable. Material costs range from $300 to $900 per square, with installation adding $600 to $1,200 per square.
Synthetic slate has many benefits:
- It lasts 50 years or more with proper care
- It’s lighter, making installation easier
- It costs less to maintain over time than natural slate
- It’s good for the environment because it’s made from recycled materials
When deciding between natural and synthetic slate, think about your budget, home style, and maintenance needs. Synthetic slate is a cost-effective option for those wanting the slate look without the high price.
Cedar Shake Roofing: Rustic Charm and Insulation
Cedar shake roofing adds a stunning rustic look to any home. It’s made from natural cedar wood, giving it a unique thickness and texture. With proper care, a cedar shake roof can last up to 30 years or more.
Wood shingles, like cedar, are great at keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. They help control your home’s temperature, which can lower your energy bills. This not only saves money but also helps the environment by using less energy.
But, cedar shake roofs need more care than other materials. They need regular cleaning and sealing to stay looking good and working well. Also, they can cost more, with materials ranging from $4 to $12 per square foot. Installation adds another $3 to $7 per square foot.
Despite the extra work and cost, many people think the charm and energy savings of cedar shake roofs are worth it. They’re eco-friendly, made from biodegradable materials, and don’t need harmful chemicals. They also naturally fight off pests and decay.
Clay and Concrete Tile Roofing: Mediterranean Style
Clay and concrete tiles are perfect for a Mediterranean or Spanish style roof. They look great and last a long time. With the right care, a tile roof can last 50 to 100 years.
Clay Tile Roofing
Clay tiles are very durable, lasting many decades. They are made by firing clay at high temperatures. This makes them strong and durable.
Clay tiles are lighter than concrete tiles but cost more. They need a roof slope of at least 5:12 for flat shingles. For interlocking tiles, the slope should be between 3:12 and 5:12.
For slopes under 3-1/2:12, clay tiles are mainly for looks. They need waterproofing from the roof below. Type II No. 30 or No. 43 felt is best for underlayment, with specific overlaps needed.
Concrete Tile Roofing
Concrete tiles were first used in Bavaria in the mid-19th century. They are cheaper and more durable than clay tiles. They can handle winds over 125 miles per hour and have a Class A fire rating.
Concrete tiles are good at keeping energy costs down. They get better with age, needing little maintenance. This makes them a smart choice for energy efficiency.
Both clay and concrete tiles are expensive but worth it for their beauty and durability. Installing them takes longer than asphalt shingles. But, with regular cleaning, they keep your home looking beautiful and protected for years.
Which Roofing Shingles Are Best?
Choosing the right roofing shingles for your home is important. You need to think about your budget, the weather, your home’s style, and how much upkeep you want. Look at the shingles’ durability, cost, look, weight, how they’re installed, and if they save energy. This will help you pick the best one for your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Shingles
When picking roof shingles, think about these things:
- Climate: Pick materials that can handle your local weather, like hot temperatures, lots of rain, or strong winds.
- Durability: Go for shingles that last longer and can stand up to wear and tear. Options like architectural or luxury asphalt shingles, metal, or slate are good.
- Aesthetics: Choose a style and color that looks good with your home and makes it look better.
- Cost: Think about your budget and the value of the material over time. Balance the upfront cost with how long it lasts and how much upkeep it needs.
- Maintenance: Some materials, like wood shingles, need more care than others. Think about how much upkeep you’re okay with.
Comparing the Different Types of Roofing Shingles
It’s key to know the good and bad of each roofing shingle type:
- Asphalt shingles: They’re the most popular in the U.S. They’re affordable and come in many styles. Architectural shingles are more durable and look better than 3-tab shingles.
- Metal roofing: It’s durable and can last 40-70 years or more. You can choose from steel, aluminum, and copper.
- Slate roofing: Slate is a high-end choice that can last over a century. Synthetic slate is a cheaper option that lasts 30-50 years.
- Cedar shake roofing: Wood shingles and shakes add a rustic look and good insulation. They last 20-50 years, depending on care and weather.
- Clay and concrete tile roofing: These are durable and can last 50 years or more. They’re also fire-resistant, insect-proof, and rot-resistant.
The best roofing shingles for your home depend on your needs, preferences, and where you live. By carefully looking at your options and talking to a roofing expert, you can make a smart choice. This choice will protect your home and increase its value for many years.
Top Roofing Shingle Brands
Choosing the best roofing brands for your home is key. Look for top manufacturers known for quality, long warranties, and variety. They meet your needs and preferences.
GAF
GAF is the top roofing maker in North America, starting in 1886. One in four homes in America has a GAF roof. Their Timberline shingles are very popular in the U.S.
GAF offers warranties of 10, 20, or 50 years for their shingles. This ensures your home is protected for a long time.
CertainTeed
CertainTeed started in 1904 and offers many asphalt shingles for homes. Their Grand Manor shingles come in eight shades, blending style and durability.
CertainTeed’s warranty covers roofing materials for 50 years for complete roof systems installed by certified contractors. Warranties range from 5 to 10 years, depending on the product and installer.
Owens Corning
Owens Corning has three types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. Their TruDefinition® Duration Shingles can handle winds up to 130 mph. This makes them strong against harsh weather.
Owens Corning’s System Plus Warranty covers material defects for up to 50 years. It also covers labor for the whole time you own the house, if installed by certified contractors.
IKO
IKO is big in North America and Europe, and they ship to 96 countries. They make three types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, architectural laminated, and premium. IKO shingles are known for being light and durable, appealing to both homes and businesses.
Roofing Shingle Warranties and Cost
When you get a new roof, knowing about warranties and costs is key. Warranties from manufacturers usually have a basic option and higher levels that cost more. These warranties start with a non-prorated period, then offer prorated coverage for the rest of the time.
Asphalt shingle warranties last from 25 to 30 years. Some brands even offer up to 50 years or a lifetime warranty. Most warranties can be transferred once during the non-proration period if you sell your house. But, each manufacturer has its own rules for this.
Warranty claims can be rejected for reasons like bad ventilation and installer mistakes. Most manufacturers offer algae protection, but it only covers certain types of algae. It doesn’t cover all discoloration.
The cost of replacing shingles is about 20% of the roof replacement cost. Labor and other materials make up the rest, about 80%. A contractor’s warranty usually lasts five years and covers installation mistakes.
Warranties that cover wind damage can last up to 15 years. The wind speed coverage depends on the shingle type and how it’s installed. To keep your warranty valid, check your roof at least once a year or every two years.
Wind damage coverage is not standard in most warranties. But, some companies offer wind warranty options. Warranties might not cover damages from bad installation. This shows how important it is to have a good contractor.
Many warranties require the contractor to be certified and authorized by the manufacturer. When looking at roofing warranties and roof maintenance costs, ask about what’s covered and what’s not. Knowing the details of a lifetime shingle warranty and its costs helps you choose the right shingles for your home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roof shingles for your home is important. You need to think about your budget, the weather, how it looks, and how long you want it to last. Asphalt shingles are the top choice in the U.S. because they’re affordable and come in many styles. They cost between $80 and $100 per square.
A typical shingle roof for a 2,000-square-foot home costs between $5,994 and $9,791. 3-tab asphalt shingles are the cheapest. But architectural shingles offer a good mix of price and quality. Luxury shingles look like slate or wood.
If you want a roof that lasts a long time, consider metal, slate, cedar shake, or tile. Metal shingles can last 40 to 80 years and are a good value. But they cost more than asphalt.
Slate shingles can last over 100 years and increase your home’s value. But they are the priciest, costing about ten times more than asphalt. Clay and concrete tiles are also durable, fire-resistant, and easy to maintain. They can last 50 to 100 years.
To pick the best roof shingles, talk to a professional roofing contractor. They can give you advice and make sure it’s installed right. Keeping your roof in good shape with regular checks and repairs can make it last longer.
Using advanced technology like RoofScope can help contractors give you accurate estimates. This way, you can make smart choices for your home’s protection.
FAQ
What are the most common types of roofing shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most common. They come in three types: 3-tab, architectural, and premium designer. Other options include metal, slate, cedar shake, and clay or concrete tiles.
What are the benefits of metal roofing?
Metal roofing lasts 50 years or more. It’s durable against wind, fire, and pests. It’s also energy efficient. While more expensive than asphalt, it offers long-term value.
How long can slate roofing last?
Slate roofing can last over 100 years with proper care. Natural slate is very durable. Synthetic slate is lighter and less expensive but looks similar.
What maintenance does cedar shake roofing require?
Cedar shake roofs need regular cleaning and sealing. This keeps them looking good and protects them from moisture. They typically last about 30 years.
What factors should I consider when choosing roofing shingles?
Think about your budget, climate, home style, and maintenance needs. Consider the shingles’ durability, cost, appearance, and installation requirements. Also, their energy efficiency is important.
What are some top roofing shingle brands?
Top brands include GAF, CertainTeed, Tamko, and Owens Corning. GAF is the largest in North America. CertainTeed offers a wide range. Tamko and Owens Corning have high-quality shingles with strong warranties.
What do roofing shingle warranties typically cover?
Warranties range from 20 years to lifetime. Most cover material defects. Some also cover labor. Proper installation and maintenance are key to keeping the warranty valid.
