9 Most Popular Types of Shingles for Your Home!

Are you replacing your roof and curious about the types of shingles available?

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 options, and we often go with the 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 your roof’s structural integrity if not installed correctly. 

Over time, your 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 is 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!

Roof Shingle Types Explained for Idaho Homeowners

Roofing shingles are overlapping roof materials that protect your home from wind, heat, snow, and moisture. Choosing the right shingle depends on your location, budget, durability needs, and long-term maintenance—especially in Idaho’s climate, where hot summers, cold winters, wind, and snow loads all impact roof performance.

The most popular roofing material in Idaho is architectural asphalt shingles, thanks to their balance of affordability, curb appeal, and durability. These shingles are wind-rated up to 130 MPH, last longer than three-tab shingles, and perform well in Boise-area weather. Three-tab shingles are no longer permitted for installation in Idaho due to updated building standards.

Other roofing options include metal shingles and standing-seam metal roofs for longevity and energy efficiency, cedar shake shingles for a natural appearance (with higher maintenance), and luxury shingles that mimic slate or wood at a lower cost. Premium materials like slate, copper, solar, and tile shingles offer long lifespans and visual appeal but come with significantly higher upfront costs and structural considerations.

Roof replacement pricing is calculated per “square” (100 square feet), with asphalt shingle roofs typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on roof size, material choice, and installation complexity.

For most Boise and Treasure Valley homes, architectural asphalt shingles remain the best overall choice for performance, warranty protection, and value. A professional local roofing inspection is the best way to determine which shingle type fits your home, budget, and long-term goals.

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

Below, we highlight 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 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 three-tab shingles, the latter offers less aesthetic value and has significantly shorter material warranties.

• 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 shingles 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 with dimensional shingles, traditional three-tab asphalt shingles are less durable; however, they can cost approximately one-third less. Three-tab shingles come in strips, hence the reference to “Strip shingles,” and the strips of three are flat rectangular shingles. We recommend replacing your asphalt shingle roof with architectural shingles for their durability, longevity, and color selection. If you are planning to replace your asphalt shingle roof, be sure to upgrade to architectural shingles.

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

3. Aluminum Shingles

These are very rare, but becoming more popular because Aluminum Shingles are eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable. With a long lifespan and a great aesthetic appeal from 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 in curbside appeal, which 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, and we sometimes are hesitant to recommend in the Treasure Valley because of hail!

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

5. Metal Shingles & Metal Roofs

Metal shingles are the ideal choice that blends style and durability, available in many colors and offering a long lifespan thanks to their unique, lightweight design. Keep in mind that metal roof installation costs vary by location, is prone to denting, and requires a higher upfront cost. 

• Average Cost to Install: $5K-$15K
• See More: Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingle Roof
• 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 asphalt shingles in durability 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 for their curb appeal. 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 stone that is very durable, weather-resistant, and one of the marketplace’s longest-lasting roof shingles. However, slate tiles are costly, 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 curb appeal and require installation only 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 highly durable 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 Types of Roof Shingles

Out here in the Treasure Valley, no two homes are the same—and neither are their roofs. Between Boise heat, winter snow, wind, and everything in between, the “best” shingle really depends on your home, your budget, and how long you plan to stay there.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is this: you usually get what you pay for. Going with the cheapest option might save a little upfront, but it can cost you a lot more down the road in repairs, stress, and early replacement.

If you still have questions or just want an honest opinion, give us a call or reach out through the website. I’m always happy to take a look at your roof and help you choose the option that makes the most sense for your home and Idaho’s climate.

*Pricing is based on the Modernize article here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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. To determine which shingles are best for your home, ask a local roofing contractor.