Choosing a roof that fits both your home's needs and your design tastes might sound daunting, but it's more straightforward than you think. Sure, you can't just flip through a catalog, pick one, and magically have a new roof appear on your house—though that would be pretty awesome. However, making the right choice doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming either.
Think of your roof as an accessory for your home. Like picking out a new pair of sunglasses or that watch you’ve been eyeing, selecting the right roof can be a fun investment without the headache. And just like a good accessory elevates your look, the right roof enhances your home’s appearance and performance.
For the past 30 years, RoofCrafters has been guiding homeowners through this process, making it as painless as possible. We won’t say you’ll want a second home just for the joy of installing another roof, but we do promise that choosing the right one for your current home will be a breeze.
When it comes to roofing, several factors influence the best choice for your home. This guide will walk you through the top five types of residential roofing materials, their unique qualities, and the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision.
What Are the Different Types of Asphalt Shingles for Your Home?
Asphalt shingles are among the most popular choices for residential roofing due to their affordability and versatility. There are four types you’ll want to consider:
- 3-tab shingles
- Architectural shingles
- Upgraded architectural shingles
- Designer shingles
Each type brings something unique to the table, from style and color to pattern and durability. Below, we’ll explore these in more detail, including their costs and the key benefits and drawbacks of each style.
3-Tab Shingles: The Affordable Roofing Solution
3-tab shingles are often referred to as "builder-grade" shingles. They are the lightest and flattest of the four types, named for the three cutouts or tabs that give them their look. These are your go-to option if you're looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly roofing solution.
- Cost: 3-tab shingles are the most economical, with an average cost between $7,300 to $10,600.
- Aesthetics: These shingles provide a simple, flat slate look.
- Lifespan: Typically lasts 12 to 15 years, depending on weather conditions.
- Protection: They offer minimal wind protection, with a 60 mph wind rating, making them more susceptible to damage during severe storms.
If you’re seeking an affordable and basic roofing option, 3-tab shingles might be right for you. But keep in mind that they may require more frequent replacements.
Architectural Shingles: Enhanced Durability and Design
Architectural shingles, sometimes called laminated or dimensional shingles, are crafted by layering materials to create depth and texture. Fun fact: these shingles were originally designed to mimic the appearance of wood shakes. Darker colors, especially browns, tend to replicate that natural wood look even better.
- Cost: Architectural shingles cost about 10% to 15% more than 3-tab shingles, averaging between $11,200 and $17,100.
- Aesthetics: Their layered construction adds dimension and boosts curb appeal.
- Lifespan: With proper roof ventilation, these shingles last 17 to 22 years.
- Protection: When installed correctly, they can withstand winds up to 130 mph.
Architectural shingles are the most popular choice in the U.S., offering both aesthetic appeal and improved protection compared to 3-tab shingles.
Upgraded Architectural Shingles: A Step Above in Performance
Upgraded architectural shingles are a step above regular architectural shingles in terms of weight, thickness, and definition. The extra weight adds durability and helps the shingles stand up better to high winds. Plus, they come with a longer algae warranty, so your roof will maintain its clean look for a longer period.
- Cost: The upgraded version costs 10% to 15% more than standard architectural shingles, with an average price range of $13,100 to $19,000.
- Aesthetics: These thicker shingles add a noticeable pop to your roof, enhancing curb appeal.
- Lifespan: They typically last 25 to 30 years, thanks to the extra asphalt content.
- Protection: The added weight means less risk of shingles blowing off in strong winds. Some versions can weigh up to 100 pounds more per square foot than regular shingles.
If you’re looking for a long-lasting, high-performance roof that improves your home’s visual appeal, upgraded architectural shingles are an excellent choice.
Designer Shingles: Luxury Look and Maximum Protection
Designer, or luxury, shingles are engineered to replicate the look of high-end materials like real slate or wood. They are the heaviest of all the asphalt shingles, which gives them superior wind resistance, which is perfect if you live in an area prone to hurricanes or severe storms.
- Cost: These shingles come with the highest upfront investment, ranging from $18,300 to $29,100, depending on the specific style.
- Aesthetics: Designer shingles offer unmatched curb appeal with their unique designs.
- Lifespan: They can last between 30 to 40 years.
- Protection: Thanks to their weight and robust construction, designer shingles provide the best protection against high winds and storms.
If you’re looking for something that makes your home stand out and can handle the toughest weather conditions, designer shingles are the way to go.
Why Hiring the Right Roofing Contractor is Essential
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of shingles, the next big step is finding the right roofing contractor. Whether your roof leaks, has been damaged by a storm, or is simply nearing the end of its lifespan, hiring a skilled contractor is critical.
Here’s a quick checklist for choosing a reliable roofing partner:
- Look for local contractors: They’ll be familiar with your area’s climate and building codes.
- Check for proper licensing and insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed in your state and has general liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
- Ask for references and read reviews: See if past customers were satisfied with the work.
- Get multiple estimates: Compare pricing, but don’t automatically go with the cheapest option.
- Review warranties: Understand what warranties are offered for both materials and workmanship.
At RoofCrafters, we’ve been providing transparent, thorough roof inspections for nearly three decades. We pride ourselves on giving homeowners honest evaluations and expert recommendations for roof replacements or repairs.
If you think we’d be a good fit for your next roofing project, we’d be happy to schedule a roof inspection for you. At the end of the day, choosing the right roof doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and a trusted partner by your side, the process can be smooth and even enjoyable.
