Exploring 3 Different Types of Roofing Shingles

When building a house or replacing the roof, there are many styles and materials to choose from. You can replace your shingles with the same material or choose a different one. Here are three types of roofing shingles that are all quality and will serve their utilitarian purpose but also look good.

1. Cedar Shingles

A natural material, cedar provides durable, energy-efficient protection. Cedar shingles are also natural insect deterrents. Untreated cedar isn’t fire-resistant, so make sure your jurisdiction allows it before installing it. Check whether roof installers in your area offer the material you want for your shingles. For example, companies like IKO Roofing may specialize in one type of shingle or offer several specialty options, such as cedar and terra cotta.

2. Asphalt Shingles

One of the most popular materials for shingles, asphalt has many advantages. It’s a relatively inexpensive material. It’s also lightweight, strong, UV reflective and waterproof. A few types of asphalt shingles are available, including standard or traditional and architectural. Roof installers may also offer several color options. IKO shingles, for example, come in several varieties of gray, brown and black.

3. Slate Shingles

Slate shingles require skilled, experienced roofers. Check whether the roofer has installed slate shingles before hiring him or her. Slate is a more expensive roofing material and much heavier than other options, but it can offset those costs with its benefits. It’s a naturally fire-resistant material and is durable enough to last two or more decades. Due to the weight of this material, you may need to consider hiring a structural engineer who can work with your roofer to ensure the building is capable of supporting a slate roof.

Always make sure the shingles you choose are suitable for your geographic area and climate. If you only choose based on aesthetics, your roof and home may be more vulnerable to leaks, damage and drafts. You should also always review roof warranties and your insurance coverage.

There are a lot more different types of shingles out there but these are common ones that are usually easy to find at any appliance store.

These are commonly asked questions about shingles:

What is the best type of shingles for roofing?

The best type of roof shingles depends on factors like your budget, aesthetic preferences, and climate. Architectural shingles are a good choice due to their dimensional look, high wind resistance (80-120 mph), longer lifespan (18-30 years), and extended warranties (50 years or more). However, if you’re looking for a more economical option, three-tab shingles could be suitable, though they typically have a shorter lifespan (7-15 years) and warranty (25-30 years).

What are shingles in a roof?

Roof shingles are a roof covering consisting of individual overlapping elements. These elements are usually flat rectangular shapes that are laid in rows from the bottom edge of the roof up, with each successive row overlapping the joints in the previous one. Shingles are made from various materials such as asphalt (most common in the U.S.), wood, metal, plastic, slate, and composite materials like fibre cement and rubber.

How much is a slab of shingles?

The cost of a slab of shingles can vary widely depending on the type of shingles, the brand, and the region where you are purchasing them. For the most accurate pricing, it is recommended to get multiple estimates from local contractors or suppliers.

What is a bundle of shingles?

A bundle of shingles is a packaged set of shingles. Typically, it takes three bundles of standard three-tab asphalt shingles to cover one square of a roof (a square in roofing is a standard unit of measure equivalent to 100 square feet). However, this can vary depending on the type of shingle, as some heavier or larger shingles may require more bundles per square.

What roof shingles last the longest?

Architectural asphalt shingles tend to last the longest among common shingle types, with a lifespan of 18-30 years. Their warranties often extend 50 years or more. Other long-lasting options include clay and concrete tiles, which can last over 50 years, and certain types of metal roofing, which can last 40-70 years.

How many years do asphalt shingles last?

The lifespan of asphalt shingles depends on their type. Three-tab asphalt shingles typically last between 15 and 20 years, while architectural asphalt shingles can last between 18 and 30 years. Factors such as climate, roof pitch, and maintenance can also impact the lifespan of asphalt shingles.