9 Popular Roof Shingle Types – What Are Your Choices?

Are you replacing your roof and curious to know what types of shingles are out there?

When it comes to finding a shingle for your roof, it is a lot like shopping for toothpaste, or anything for that matter. 

At the store, the toothpaste section has what seems like hundreds of things to choose from and we often just go with what is cheapest. However, for shingle shopping, it is, and it isn’t as simple as just picking out a shingle and a color as there are a variety of types of shingles, colors, selections, and other factors you must weigh. 

Today, we will cover all of the different roof shingle types you can potentially choose from and the pros and cons of each. But first, what is a roofing shingle, and what is essential? We will help you learn the answers!

What is a roofing shingle?

Roofing shingles are a ubiquitous roof covering that consists of flat, rectangular, overlapping shapes generally made out of asphalt and span from the bottom edge of your roof to the top. They are essential because they are the first line of defense against the elements, which, over time, can compromise the structural integrity of your roof if not installed correctly. 

Overtime roofing shingles can fall off, become damaged, or need replacing with age, which is why it is best first to see what types of roofing shingles work best for your home based on the following:

• Your location
• Your shingle budget — [See New Roof Costs here]
• Color & style of shingles
• The company installing your new roof

Of course, asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material option, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options. Let’s look at the types of shingles you can choose from!

Here is a quick list of the most common types of shingles:

Below, we highlight what we consider the best shingles for your home’s roof.

The Best 9 Roof Shingle Types to Consider!

1. Asphalt Shingles Architectural 

Believe it or not, there are several types of asphalt shingles.

Asphalt shingles architecture is the preferred choice for the majority of homes. They are the most durable choice on the marketplace and last the longest with proper maintenance. While they cost more than average three-tab shingles, they are worth the investment! 

For starters, dimensional shingles, which they are sometimes referred to as are more durable and come with a better wind warranty rating. Most architectural shingles are rated at 130 MPH for wind resistance by the top suppliers (Owens Corning, GAF, CertainTeed).

When comparing an architectural asphalt shingle to the three-tab shingles offer less aesthetic value, and their material warranties are significantly less.

• Average Cost to Install: $5K-$15K
• The price depends on the size of your roof and shingle selection

2. Asphalt Shingles – Three-tab shingles

In Idaho, roofers cannot install three-tab shingles. Nevertheless, they are the most affordable shingle if you live in other states. You are most likely familiar with the traditional three-tab shingle as they have a thinner frame with a fiberglass composition for flexibility but tend to wear out more easily over time than others. 

Compared to dimensional shingles, traditional three-tab asphalt shingles are not as durable; however, they can cost approximately one-third less. Three-tab shingles come in strips, hence the reference of “Strip shingles,” and the strips of three are flat rectangular shingles. We recommend that if you are planning on replacing your asphalt shingle roof, be sure to always upgrade to architectural shingles because of durability, longevity, and color selection.

• Average Cost to Install: $4K-$12K
• Pricing depends on the size of your project

3. Aluminum Shingles

Aluminum Shingles are eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable with a long lifespan and also have a great aesthetic appeal with their patterned, staggered look. However, consider that initial costs are generally high, prone to denting, and poor sound insulators. 

• Average Cost to Install: $15K-$28K
• See More: Frequently Asked Roofing Questions

4. Copper Shingles

Cooper shingles are lightweight, durable, energy-efficient, and have an enormous upside on curbside appeal that will more than likely increase the value of your home. However, because it is a premium metal, copper shingles are costly and a luxury selection. 

• Average Cost to Install: $25K-$48K or more
• They can last over 60+ years!

5. Metal Shingles 

Metal shingles are the ideal selection that mixes style and durability, coming in many different colors and having a long lifespan given their unique and durable lightweight. Keep in mind that metal roof installation costs do vary from location to location, are prone to denting, and do require a higher upfront cost. 

• Average Cost to Install: $5K-$15K
• See More: Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingle Roof and
• Types of Metal Shingles

6. Cedar Wood Shake Shingles or “Wood Shingles.”

Cedarwood shake shingles are known for their exceptional curb appeal. They are on par with durability when compared to asphalt shingles and are energy efficient. However, they are costly compared to asphalt roofing shingles and maintenance-intensive since moss, mildew, and so forth can quickly grow on such surfaces. 

Years and years ago, wood shingles were a trendy roofing material because of the curb appeal they offered. However, with the inception of architectural asphalt shingles, many homeowners prefer maintenance-free shingles over wood shake shingles.

• Average Cost to Install: $14K-$25

7. Slate Tiles 

Slate tiles consist of a unique, thin layer of stones that are very durable, weather-resistant, and one of the marketplace’s longest-lasting roof shingles. However, slate tiles are costly and heavy and dense, so proper prior consultation is recommended. 

• Average Cost to Install: $25K-$50K

8. Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are a current selection that aims to optimize energy consumption and efficiency in your home by generating electricity, thus cutting your energy bills. They have great curbside appeal and uniquely only require installation on the roof’s south side. 

However, they are expensive, must be paired with other roofing materials, and have a shorter lifespan than other shingle types on average. 

• Average Cost to Install: $60K-$75K 

9. Luxury shingles

Commonly referred to as “Premium shingles,” luxury shingles are exactly what the name depicts. Offering a unique appearance, these shingles are a highly durable roofing material and are laminated asphalt shingles.

They are much heavier than their counterparts (see #1 and #2 above) and give the same unique feel that wood shake shingles provide. Laminate shingles like these offer a wide range of color and design selections and are commonly seen in pricier homes. They are more affordable than metal or copper roofing shingles but more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles.

• Prices range from $15,000 and up, depending on the size of your home

The Verdict on Roof Shingle Types –

As you can see, there is no shortage of variety regarding the type of roof shingles you can purchase for your home. Keep in mind that there is no one size fits all solution because each house is different and, therefore, has different needs. 

Be sure to consider that you get what you pay for, so before settling for the cheapest option, think twice about the long-term impact it may have on your time, money, and peace of mind. 

Do you still have more questions or concerns that need to be addressed? 

Don’t hesitate to call or reach out to us on our website; we will be more than welcome to assess your situation and recommend the best choice for you! 

*Pricing is based on Modernize article here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you install shingles yourself?

Professional roofing contractors replace almost all roofs. Painting a room or adding some trim to the inside of your home is a simple DIY project, but replacing your own roofing shingles is no easy task and is not one to try on your own. Everything from replacing the flashing to installing the ridge vent makes a new roof project difficult. Most people realize that hiring an exterior contractor is necessary, including for safety purposes.

How do you know if you need new shingles or a new roof?

Similar to how you have signs that indicate your own health, a roof that needs to be replaced has signs that say “Replace Me.” A traditional roof will show signs of wear and tear, which can include:

• missing shingles
• roof leaks
• granule loss
• obvious wear

The average life expectancy of an asphalt shingle is at least 15 years, so around that point, it is essential to remain vigilant. Local building codes may require specific standards, so be sure you use a reputable roofing company and check with your HOA if you have one.

How is roofing priced?

A new roof is priced using a method called squares. The costs are estimated per square, meaning per 100 square feet. If a house is 2,000 square feet, then that would mean it is in need of 20 square. If a square costs $500, this example roof would cost $10,000 to replace.

The price per square includes tearing off the old roof, replacing the underlayment, and installing the new shingles. Other roofing materials like flashing and roof ridge vents are priced per linear foot, not per square like your roof shingles.

What is the most popular roofing material?

Asphalt shingles are by far the most common type in the United States. Many homeowners are converting their homes to architectural shingles because they offer curb appeal, durability, and affordability. You are most likely familiar with traditional three-tab shingles, which are builder-grade shingles. In order to figure out which shingle is best for your home, be sure to ask a local roofing contractor in your area.