6 Roof Shingle Types To Consider For Your Home (Pros & Cons)

Choosing the right type of roof shingle is an important decision for any homeowner – it literally impacts the roof over your head. With many types of roof shingle options available, understanding the different types of roofing shingles is essential, as each type offers diverse benefits and drawbacks (along with variance in price), making it challenging to settle on one that suits your roof type.

Shake Guys want to provide you with a comprehensive guide – exploring 6 different (the most common) types of roof shingles, discussing their pros and cons in more expansive detail. Keep reading to discover which roofing material or asphalt shingle alternative will best cater to your needs while enhancing your home’s exterior aesthetic.

Introduction to Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing materials is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your home. The roof is your first line of defense against the elements, and it also plays a major role in your home’s curb appeal and overall value. With so many options available—ranging from classic asphalt shingles and architectural shingles to traditional roofing materials like wood shingles and clay tiles—homeowners have more choices than ever before.

Modern roofing materials include everything from laminate shingles and standing seam metal roofing to innovative options like solar shingles. Each type of roofing material offers its own unique blend of durability, style, and cost, so understanding the differences is key to making an informed decision.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless look of wood shingles, the sleek lines of standing seam metal, or the versatility of architectural shingles, it’s important to consider factors like climate, roof slope, and long-term maintenance. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular roofing materials, their benefits, and what to keep in mind as you plan your next roofing project.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable choice for homeowners. They come in two main types: three-tab shingles and architectural shingles. Three-tab shingles, often referred to as traditional asphalt shingles, are the most basic and cost-effective option, featuring a classic rectangular shape and symmetrical appearance.

They have a shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials and other asphalt shingles, such as dimensional or architectural varieties. On the other hand, architectural shingles—also known as laminated shingles—offer more aesthetic appeal, durability, and color choices. Both options provide reliable protection for your home against the elements.

3-tab Shingles

3-tab shingles, or strip shingles, are predominantly used in home roofing, and are a type of asphalt shingle known for their cost-effectiveness and lightness. Each shingle exhibits a flat uniform look adorned with three tabs, providing simplicity in design but limiting variation.

These characteristics make the installation process straightforward and less costly than other options. However, the lighter construction results in lower durability and lifespan compared to their architectural counterparts. While they offer an economical solution for roofing needs, 3-tab shingles may not resist harsh weather conditions or wind damage as effectively. Despite these drawbacks, many homeowners continue to opt for this convenient choice in traditional roofs due to its affordability.

By point of comparison, “dimensional shingles” are still asphalt shingles, but simulate a pattern, or wood shake look. These are sometimes referred to as “architectural shingles.”

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as architectural roofing shingles, laminate shingles, or dimensional shingles, are a popular choice in roofing materials and are crucial for the integrity of your entire roof system. They stand out due to their layered appearance, offering unique customization possibilities regarding shape and size.

As part of other roofing components used on residential buildings, these asphalt-based shingles bring a roof shingle texture charm akin to wood shakes without compromising durability. Significantly heavier than three-tab shingles – about 50 percent more – they provide enhanced protection from roof leaks and weather elements while maintaining structural integrity.

Despite being pricier than their counterparts, architectural shingles often justify the cost with increased lifespan – up to 30 years in some cases – and extended manufacturer’s warranties that may cover up to half a century.

Main Benefits of Asphalt Shingles

• Cost-effective and budget-friendly roofing option
• Easy to install, reducing labor costs
• Wide variety of colors and styles to match any home aesthetic
• Durable and weather-resistant, offering reliable protection
• Low maintenance requirements compared to other roofing materials
• Long lifespan with proper care and maintenance
• Premium asphalt shingles are available for those seeking enhanced durability, a longer lifespan, and the appearance of natural materials like slate or cedar

⛓️ Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are a popular roofing option due to their easy installation process and exceptional durability. Metal roofs are available in various styles, including shingles and panels, offering flexibility for different architectural needs. These metal options provide long-lasting protection for your home. They are more sturdy than slate shingles, and metal roofing shingles offer comparable protection for your property.

Homeowners have a variety of metal shingles to choose from, each offering its own unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. Different roofing systems can incorporate metal shingles for enhanced protection and versatility. Here are some of the most popular types:

Aluminum Shingles 

Aluminum shingles are a top choice for homeowners seeking a lightweight yet durable roofing solution. Their natural resistance to rust and corrosion makes them particularly well-suited for coastal or humid regions where exposure to saltwater or moisture is a concern.

Easy to install, they significantly reduce the structural load on a building compared to heavier materials like slate or clay tiles. Aluminum shingles come in a variety of finishes, including smooth, textured, and embossed designs, as well as a wide range of colors, providing flexibility to match virtually any architectural style.

Additionally, they are energy-efficient, reflecting heat to keep homes cooler in warmer climates, and are fully recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Steel Shingles 

Steel shingles are a popular roofing option, combining strength, affordability, and versatility. Made from galvanized steel or steel coated with a protective layer of zinc or an alloy, they are highly resistant to rust and other forms of weathering.

This durability ensures they can withstand severe weather conditions, making them ideal for areas prone to heavy snowfall, wind, or hail. Steel shingles can be manufactured to resemble traditional roofing materials like slate, wood shakes, or clay tiles, offering the look of premium products at a fraction of the price.

Available in numerous colors and finishes, they provide excellent aesthetic options while maintaining a long lifespan. Their protective coating also reduces maintenance needs, adding to their overall value.

Copper Shingles 

Copper shingles are renowned for their distinctive, elegant appearance and unmatched durability. Over time, they develop a natural patina, transitioning from their shiny, reddish-brown color to a muted green or blue that adds character and charm to any building.

This unique weathering process not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also acts as a protective layer, making them even more resistant to corrosion and environmental damage. Copper shingles are lightweight yet strong, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures and weather conditions. However, copper shingles require specialized installation due to their unique properties.

Specialized installation is necessary to ensure the longevity and performance of copper shingles. Although they represent a significant upfront investment, their longevity and minimal maintenance requirements make them cost-effective in the long run. They are often used on high-end residential properties, historic restorations, and architectural landmarks to achieve a timeless look.

Zinc Shingles 

Zinc shingles are a premium roofing material known for their exceptional durability, long lifespan, and environmentally friendly properties. One of their key features is their self-healing ability—scratches, nicks, or imperfections on the surface oxidize and blend in naturally over time, maintaining a uniform appearance.

Zinc shingles are also highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions, requiring minimal maintenance throughout their lifespan, which can exceed 80 years. Their sleek, modern aesthetic makes them a popular choice for contemporary architectural designs, but they can just as easily complement more traditional or industrial styles.

Furthermore, zinc is a sustainable material, as it is fully recyclable and requires less energy to produce compared to other metal roofing options.

Tin Shingles 

Tin shingles, while less commonly used today, remain a durable and economical roofing option for certain applications. Made from thin sheets of steel or iron coated with tin to prevent rust, they are lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs.

Often reinforced with a protective layer of paint or sealant, tin shingles can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. They offer a charming, vintage aesthetic that is well-suited for older homes, barns, or outbuildings seeking to maintain a traditional look.

Tin shingles are also highly reflective, helping to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption. Though not as durable as premium materials like copper or zinc, they provide an affordable, long-lasting solution for budget-conscious homeowners.

Main Benefits of Metal Shingles 

• Made from durable materials, metal shingles are impact-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail, heavy rain, and high winds
• Durable and long-lasting, withstanding harsh weather conditions
• Low maintenance compared to traditional roofing materials
• Energy-efficient, reflecting heat to reduce cooling costs
• Lightweight, putting less strain on your home’s structure
• Eco-friendly and recyclable, contributing to sustainability
• Aesthetic versatility with a variety of styles and colors available

Clay Tile Shingles

Clay shingles, made from natural clay that is shaped and fired at high temperatures, are a classic roofing option and one of the most popular traditional roof materials used throughout history. Known for their timeless beauty, exceptional durability, and fire resistant properties, clay shingles offer outstanding protection and are ideal for homes in fire-prone regions.

These tiles have been used for centuries and continue to be a popular choice for homeowners seeking both style and long-lasting protection. Clay tile roofing is especially well-suited for warmer climates, as it naturally reflects the sun’s heat, helping to keep homes cooler.

Available in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, clay tile roofing provides an elegant aesthetic and practical benefits that can complement a wide range of architectural designs. Below are some of the most common types of clay tile shingles and their unique benefits.

Spanish Clay Tiles

Spanish clay tiles, also known as “S-tiles,” are characterized by their curved, interlocking design that resembles traditional Mediterranean roofs. This style is highly effective at shedding water and allows for excellent ventilation, making it ideal for regions with heavy rainfall or high temperatures.

Spanish clay tiles are available in a range of earthy tones, such as terracotta, red, and brown, giving homes a warm, rustic appearance. Their durability ensures they can last for decades with minimal maintenance, while their interlocking design makes them relatively easy to install compared to other clay tile styles.

Flat Clay Tiles

Flat clay tiles, also known as “mission tiles” or “slate-look tiles,” provide a sleek and modern appearance. These tiles lay flat against the roof, offering a clean and minimalist look that works well with contemporary or traditional home designs.

Flat clay tiles are extremely versatile, available in a wide range of colors and finishes to suit almost any aesthetic preference. They are also durable, capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions, and require little maintenance, making them a popular choice for long-term roofing solutions.

Barrel Clay Tiles

Barrel clay tiles, sometimes referred to as “Roman tiles,” are similar to Spanish tiles but feature a more symmetrical, half-cylinder shape. This design gives roofs a distinctive, bold appearance and provides superior drainage and ventilation.

Barrel tiles are often used to achieve an Old World or European-inspired look, adding charm and character to a home. They come in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize their roof to match their desired style. In addition to their visual appeal, barrel clay tiles are extremely durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-term performance.

Interlocking Clay Tiles

Interlocking clay tiles are designed with grooves or ridges that allow them to fit securely together during installation. This design provides added stability and protection against wind, rain, and other environmental factors. Interlocking tiles are available in a variety of shapes, including flat and curved options, offering flexibility in design while maintaining excellent functionality.

These tiles are lightweight compared to other clay tile options, making them easier to install and reducing the structural load on a home. Their precise fit also enhances the roof’s energy efficiency by minimizing gaps and air leakage.

Glazed Clay Tiles

Glazed clay tiles are treated with a glossy or matte coating that enhances their durability and aesthetic appeal. This glaze not only gives the tiles a beautiful finish but also makes them more resistant to moisture, stains, and UV damage.

Glazed clay tiles are available in a wide array of colors, finishes, and patterns, allowing homeowners to achieve a highly customized look for their roof. The glazing process also adds an extra layer of protection, making these tiles particularly well-suited for areas with harsh weather conditions or high levels of humidity.

Main Benefits of Clay Tile Shingles

• Extremely durable, with a lifespan that can exceed 50 years
• Resistant to fire, extreme weather, and UV damage
• Some clay tile shingles offer algae resistance, helping to maintain their appearance over time
• Energy-efficient, naturally insulating and reflecting heat
• Wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors to suit any home
• Eco-friendly, made from natural materials and often recyclable

Wood Shingles (Cedar Shakes)

Wood shingles, often referred to as wooden shingles, are a traditional roofing material that provides a classic and natural look to any roof.

They offer excellent insulation properties and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, wooden shingles and traditional wood shakes are considered high maintenance due to their frequent upkeep requirements and are inherently more prone to fire damage compared to other roofing materials. That being said, they do typically withstand the elements better than asphalt shingles, lasting for 10 years longer, on average.

Cedar wood shingles and traditional wood shakes have their own set of pros and cons that homeowners should consider. On the plus side, cedar shingles are incredibly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions such as hurricanes, heavy rains, hailstorms, and snowstorms. Additionally, cedar shakes are sustainable materials that can be recycled. In terms of sourcing the wood for these shingles, we always ensure suppliers or manufacturers replace every tree that is harvested with a new one planted.

Cedar shakes tend to be more expensive than other roofing materials like asphalt shingles. Despite being high maintenance, many homeowners find the unique beauty and rustic, historic appeal of traditional wood shakes and the durability of cedar shakes worth the investment in upkeep and cost. They remain a popular roofing material.

Main Benefits of Wood Shingles and Shakes

• Natural, rustic appearance that enhances curb appeal 
• Excellent insulation properties for energy efficiency 
• Durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance 
• Eco-friendly and biodegradable material 
• Resistant to wind and impact damage

Composite Shingles

Composite roofing shingles (or composition shingles) offer a great combination of style, durability, and affordability. Made from synthetic materials like plastic polymers, these shingles can mimic the appearance of high-end roofing materials such as slate or cedar shake. Composite shingles can also include options like rubber roof shingles made from recycled materials, which are known for their sustainability and long lifespan.

These options are typically even offered from high-end companies like DaVinci Roofscapes. They are available in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their aesthetic preference. Not only do composite shingles provide excellent protection for your home, but they also offer enhanced insulation benefits that are long-lasting – typically for a period of 50 years. These eco-friendly shingles can withstand the elements without needing costly repairs or replacement compared to asphalt roofing shingles or wood shake shingles.

Composite shingles are a popular choice for residential roofing due to their versatility and durability. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal or improve its energy efficiency, composite shingles are an excellent choice for any residential building. A huge bonus to composite shingles is that these can be installed during any season – including winter – with a nail gun.

Main Benefits of Composite Shingles 

• Durable and long-lasting 
• Resistant to harsh weather conditions 
• Low maintenance compared to traditional materials 
• Wide range of styles and colors to match any aesthetic 
• Eco-friendly options available 
• Cost-effective solution for roofing needs

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are widely regarded as one of the most premium roofing materials available, offering a combination of natural beauty, exceptional longevity, and unmatched durability. Crafted from natural stone, slate shingles provide a unique, textured appearance that instantly elevates the curb appeal of any home.

With proper maintenance, a slate roof can last for a century or more, making it a wise investment for homeowners seeking a roofing solution that stands the test of time. Slate shingles are not only visually striking but also highly resistant to fire, extreme weather conditions, and the natural aging process, ensuring your home remains protected and stylish for generations.

Natural Slate Shingles

Natural slate shingles are quarried from genuine slate rock, giving each shingle a distinctive, elegant look that can’t be replicated by other roofing materials. These shingles are renowned for their durability, offering superior resistance to weathering, fire, and temperature extremes.

Available in a variety of natural colors such as gray, black, and green, natural slate shingles allow homeowners to customize their roof’s appearance to perfectly complement their home’s exterior. Thanks to their dense composition, these shingles require minimal maintenance and retain their beauty and structural integrity for decades, making them a top choice for those seeking both performance and timeless style.

Synthetic Slate Shingles

For homeowners who love the look of slate but are seeking a more budget-friendly and lightweight option, synthetic slate shingles are an excellent alternative. Made from advanced composite or recycled materials, these shingles are engineered to closely mimic the appearance and texture of natural slate, while offering enhanced flexibility and easier installation.

Synthetic slate shingles are also an environmentally friendly roofing option, as many are produced using recycled materials. They provide impressive durability and weather resistance, making them a practical choice for those who want the elegance of slate without the higher cost or weight.

Main Benefits of Slate Shingles

• Exceptional longevity, with a lifespan that can exceed 100 years with proper maintenance
• Superior fire resistance and protection against extreme weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rainfall
• Minimal maintenance requirements, as slate shingles are naturally resistant to algae growth and the effects of natural aging
• Unique, textured appearance that enhances curb appeal and adds value to your home
• Made from natural stone or recycled materials, offering an environmentally friendly roofing material option

With their blend of beauty, durability, and exceptional longevity, slate shingles remain a top choice for homeowners seeking a truly premium roofing material.

☀️ Solar Shingles 

Solar shingles are an innovative roofing solution that utilizes advanced solar technology to generate renewable energy while protecting your home. Unlike traditional solar panels, which are mounted on top of existing roofs, solar shingles are integrated directly into the roofing material for a more streamlined appearance.

These shingles are designed to blend seamlessly with traditional shingles, ensuring your home retains its curb appeal and maintains a cohesive look. Solar shingles are durable and weather-resistant, offering the same level of protection as composite shingles, with the added benefit of lowering your energy bills.

Although the upfront cost may be higher, solar shingles are an investment in long-term energy savings and a greener future. For homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on style or efficiency, solar shingles provide an excellent, forward-thinking option.

Main Benefits of Solar Shingles 

• Combines the functionality of solar panels with the aesthetics of traditional roofing 
• Provides clean, renewable energy for your home 
• Increases property value while reducing energy bills 
• Durable and weather-resistant, offering long-term performance 
• Seamless integration with your roof for a sleek, modern look

Find the Perfect Roof Shingles for Your Home with Shake Guys

When considering possible roof shingle options for your home or business, it’s important to consider the corresponding value of each, comparatively. Asphalt shingles offer affordability and easy installation, but may have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. In consideration, wood shingles (namely cedar shakes) provide a natural aesthetic value not found in other shingle options. However, they will inherently require more maintenance.

For roof replacement projects or roof repair, homeowners can choose from a wide range of styles and innovations offered by shingle manufacturers. Premium options like luxury shingles and slate roofing provide top-tier durability and aesthetics for those seeking a high-end look.

Understanding the different types of roof shingles out there on the market and their unique characteristics can perhaps help you make a more informed decision that meets your needs in terms of cost-effectiveness, durability, style, and energy efficiency.

It is advisable to consult a qualified roofing contractor for proper installation, and selecting reputable roofing contractors is crucial to ensure quality workmanship.

Regardless of which shingle preference you end up settling upon, Shakes Guys has the expertise and experience to help make your roof replacement a simplistic, stress-free process.

Contact us today for a free estimate!