What Are the Different Types of Shingles Available for My Home’s Roof?

Roof shingles are small rectangular tiles that cover a pitched roof. Their dimensions vary by material and style, but most are laid in overlapping patterns. Shingles come in a variety of materials, including asphalt, metal, composite plastic and wood. Their primary job is to protect your home and shield it from outside elements. Aside from their practical functions, roof shingles can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and value.

If you’re looking to replace your roof, now may be a good time to learn about the many types of shingles available.

Asphalt

Asphalt shingles are some of the most popular types of shingles among homeowners in the U.S. Not only are asphalt shingles affordable but they also come in a wide variety of sizes and colors.

Asphalt shingles can be single layered or multi layered depending on how thick you want your roof to be. Their lifespan is shorter in comparison to more expensive premium roofing materials, but they offer several benefits nonetheless: asphalt shingles are waterproof, fire resistant and suitable for snowy climates.

Asphalt shingles frequently offer the best mix of aesthetics, longevity and affordability for Atlanta homeowners.

Slate

Slate shingles have one of the longest lifespans. A properly installed and maintained slate roof can last up to 100 years, serving generations of homeowners. These types of shingles can be costly, and not every structure can handle the added weight of slate shingles. Apart from their natural aesthetic, slate shingles are known to withstand severe weather, including heat, hail, high winds and copious amounts of snow.

Standing Seam and Screw Down Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is the lightest of all roofing materials. Metal roofs are typically made of aluminum, zinc, copper or stainless steel, and the material is covered with an anti-corrosive coating to prevent rusting.

What makes metal roofs stand out is their intrinsic ability to reflect sunlight, which can significantly lower your electric bill. Apart from not transferring as much heat from sunlight, metal shingles can withstand extreme weather and are invulnerable to rot and fire.

Wood

Wood shingles offer a natural look and are environmentally friendly. They’re typically made from cedar, spruce or pine and are relatively affordable compared to other high-end roofing materials. The main benefit of wood shingles is their pastoral aesthetic, which makes them the perfect option for countryside homes. However, they can also pose a significant safety risk, as wood is vulnerable to combustion, rot and termite infestation.

Clay

Clay shingles are energy efficient and are available in a variety of colors and styles. Barrel-shaped clay shingles are an excellent choice for Hispanic or Mediterranean-style homes. Strong and durable, clay shingles can withstand extreme weather and are resistant to fire and fading.

Like slate, clay is a heavy. Before you install clay shingles, make sure your roof structure can bear their weight.

Composite Plastic / Synthetic Shingles

Composite plastic shingles are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. They’re made of recycled plastic materials, making them an eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious homeowners. However, plastic shingles have a short lifespan and typically don’t last longer than 20 years.

Should I Replay My Three-Tab or Architectural Shingle Roof?

If you’ve had a high-quality three-tab shingle roof installed within the last five or ten years and it hasn’t been subjected to particularly damaging weather events, you likely don’t need a roof replacement. Asphalt shingle roofs can last between 15 and 30 years. Proper ventilation and getting fast repairs when weather damage does occur can ensure you get the most out of your asphalt shingles.

Are You an Atlanta Homeowner Looking to Fix or Replace Your Roof?

Total Roof Solutions offers residential roof repairs, replacements and inspections. Our reroofing professionals are highly experienced and ready to tackle even the most challenging roofing projects.

We use high-quality shingles that offer exceptional durability and curb appeal.

Our Atlanta roofers also excel at roofing repairs, and we’re committed to providing honest assessments and making the recommendations that are in our clients’ best interest.

For questions or to schedule your free estimate or inspection, call (678) 752-8668.