So, you need new roof shingles or want to learn more about your options? Well, you’ve come to the right place. The roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so choosing the right material is key. Roofing shingles come in various styles, colors, and materials to suit any home and budget.
Whether you prefer the rustic look of wood, the fire resistance of metal, or the affordability of asphalt, this overview will help you weigh the pros and cons of the most popular roofing shingles. By this end, you’ll be able to make an informed choice for your home’s crowning glory.
Our Atlanta roofers can help you choose the best type of shingles for your home.
Asphalt Shingles: The Most Common Roofing Material
Asphalt shingles are the most popular and affordable roofing material. Made from asphalt-saturated organic or fiberglass mats, asphalt shingles come in various styles and price points to suit any home.
There are three main types: organic, fiberglass, and premium fiberglass. Organic shingles use paper mats and last 15-20 years. Fiberglass shingles reinforced with fiberglass strands last 20-30 years.
Premium fiberglass shingles with higher quality and more durable materials can last up to 50 years. Asphalt shingles are easy to install and repair and hold well under extreme weather like wind, rain, snow, and sun. They’re also fire-resistant and help insulate attics.
Wood Shingles and Shakes: A Natural, Classic Look
Wood shingles and shakes provide a natural, rustic look for any roof. Made from cedar, redwood, or cypress, wood shingles will last 30-50 years and develop a silver-gray patina over time.
Cedar is a top pick for its resistance to rot, insects, and weather. Cedar shingles require re-staining or sealing every 3-5 years to maintain protection. Western red cedar and Alaskan yellow cedar are common types used for roofing.
Wood shakes are hand-split, giving a more textured, uneven look. Shakes are thicker than shingles and last 40-50 years. However, shakes require more maintenance as gaps may develop between pieces. Redwood and cypress are frequently used for shakes.
Slate Roof Shingles: Elegant and Durable
Slate roof shingles are one of the most premium roofing materials you can choose. Made from natural stone, slate shingles are renowned for their beauty, longevity, and durability. Their dark, irregular surface gives homes a dramatic, rustic look.
Slate shingles can last up to 100 years, significantly longer than asphalt or fiberglass. Their dense, non-porous stone material is resistant to fire, insects, and rot.
Slate shingles require little maintenance and will not warp, crack, or break down over time, like other roofing types. However, slate roof shingles cost two to five times more than regular shingles. Installation is more difficult and labor-intensive as each irregularly shaped shingle must be individually placed.
Tile Roofing: Unique Personality and Longevity
Tile roofing adds a unique personality and longevity to any home. Made from natural clay or stone, tile roofs can last 50-100 years or more with minimal maintenance required. Tile roofing comes in a variety of styles to suit any architectural design.
Spanish or barrel tiles are rounded, while flat tiles resemble slates. For a rustic look, consider wood-grain tiles. Tiles also come in many colors, from basic terracotta and gray to vibrant reds and greens.
You can even mix and match colors and styles to create custom patterns. Tile is also ideal for homes in hot, dry climates. The thick, dense material helps insulate attics and prevents heat transfer into living spaces.
Metal Roofing: Modern and Energy Efficient
Metal roofing is a modern, energy-efficient option for your home. Metal roofs, typically made of steel or aluminum, have come a long way in recent years. They no longer conjure up images of old barns; metal roofs now come in various styles and can mimic the look of asphalt or wood shingles.
Metal roofs are virtually maintenance-free. They don’t rot, warp, crack, or break down like asphalt or wood over time. Metal roofs can last 40-70 years, meaning you may never have to reroof your home again.
They are also resistant to weather, fire, and pests. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, keeping your attic and living space cooler in the summer. According to some estimates, this can reduce your air conditioning costs by up to 25%.
For More Recommendations on Roofing and Roofing Materials, Reach Out to Atlanta Roofing
For quality roofing materials and expert installation, contact Atlanta Roofing. We are a trusted, local company with over 20 years of experience helping homeowners in the Atlanta area protect their homes.
We also offer roof repair and replacement services for flat, metal, tile, and slate roofs. Their certified roofers can inspect your current roof, provide recommendations for repair or full replacement, and handle the installation of your new roofing system. For a free estimate, call Atlanta Roofing at 404-737-7179.