At some point in every homeowner’s life, the roof will need to be replaced. When the time comes to replace your roofing system, you’ll have a wide variety of shingle materials to choose from. But which one is the best type for your home’s unique needs? Learn all about these common types of shingles to find out which might suit your home the best!
Designer Roof Shingles
These shingles seem to be what countless homeowners want for their roofs, and for good reason. They give the home a luxurious, sculpted look and have an extra laminate layer or two to enhance their design. Designer shingles are also durable and can last many years. And who doesn’t like standing out from the crowd a bit? Designer shingles can make that happen. They’re versatile and frequently available in a variety of categories, giving homeowners several options to choose from. These shingles, however, are more expensive than regular architectural shingles.
Architectural Roof Shingles
These shingles are the standard in most markets. They offer an attractive look with good performance and are at a good price point. These lighter weight shingles are easy to install, repair, and remove, and they come in a wide range of colors and thicknesses. Architectural shingles work in most steep slope applications. If the roof pitch is too shallow, a 3-tab shingle will need to be installed instead.
Composite Roof Shingles
Looking for a more Earth-friendly option for your roof? Composite roof shingles may be the answer! Lightweight and simple to install, these shingles are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and can even be recycled at the end of their lifespan. You may have fewer customization options if you choose this type of shingle, however. They also tend to be pricier compared to other shingle types.
Metal Roofs
That’s right, you can actually get metal panels or shingles on your roof now! The biggest decision you’ll need to make is what kind of metal roof you may want. There are three main types: standing seam panels, sheet roofing, and metal shingle systems, which mimic the look of shakes, shingles, and slate shingles. If properly maintained, metal roofs can last longer than several other types of roofing material. They’re stylish, lightweight, and come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc. The biggest drawback: maintenance can be costly.
TPO Roof Shingles
Usually manufactured to look like asphalt, tile, or slate, TPO shingles enhance a home’s curb appeal. These shingles are durable, lightweight, and require minimal maintenance. They do, however, require professional installation. They are an expensive system, but they perform longer than conventional shingle systems.
Slate Roof Shingles
Popular in the Midwest, slate shingles are made of natural stone, which makes them waterproof, fireproof, and quite durable. They are environmentally friendly and do an excellent job in keeping a home’s temperature consistent, even in extreme weather. They are, however, quite heavy and are often costly to install. Additionally, if part of the roofing system breaks, it can be difficult to find a tile that will fit the natural flow of the already-present stone.
Solar Roof Shingles
If you’re thinking green, then you might be contemplating installing solar roof shingles onto your roofing system. These shingles are becoming increasingly popular and can help reduce utility bills while reducing your carbon footprint on the planet. They can, unfortunately, be pricey.
Tile Roof Shingles
Tile shingles come in a wide variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, concrete, bituminous, copper, and composite materials. These shingles are elegant, have a long life cycle, and are even recyclable! They are, however, one of the most expensive shingle options homeowners can choose, and they may be too heavy for certain roof structures to handle.
Wood Roof Shingles
Many homeowners appreciate wood shingles for their natural aesthetic. They’re easy to install and repair, give homes a rustic look, and are great for the environment. On the other hand, wood shingles are vulnerable to fire and rot, so maintaining it can be pricey.
Need Shingles? Ferguson Roofing’s Got Them.
If you want to replace missing shingles or even your whole roofing system, Ferguson Roofing’s got your back. We’re proud to offer several types of shingles, including 3-tab asphalt, architectural shingles, and a wide variety of specialty shingles. Call us at (314) 521-6917 to learn more or to schedule a free home visit!