When it’s time to replace your roof, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the type of shingle. With options ranging from asphalt to slate, metal, and more, selecting the right shingle for your home is an important investment. The material you choose impacts everything from durability and maintenance needs to aesthetic appeal and even energy efficiency. Doing thorough research on the pros and cons of different roofing shingles before starting your project will ensure you make the best choice for your specific needs and budget.
We’ll compare key factors like upfront costs, lifespan, climate suitability, and appearance so you can weigh your options. Whether you prefer an inexpensive, low-maintenance asphalt shingle or want to splurge on natural slate tile, you’ll learn the details to make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most ubiquitous roofing material in North America. Used on over 80% of homes, these fiberglass-based shingles are the affordable, go-to choice for many homeowners. Let’s look at why:
Overview and Background
Asphalt shingles are made from a fiberglass mat or organic felt material coated with asphalt and topped with colored mineral granules. The asphalt provides waterproofing while the granules add durability and protect the shingle from UV rays. Asphalt shingles come in two main styles:
- 3-Tab: Have a flat, rectangular design with three tabs cut into the lower edge. They’re lighter and less expensive but usually only last 15-20 years.
- Dimensional: Also called architectural or laminated shingles. They have a three-dimensional, layered texture and last 25-30 years.
Pros and Cons
Here are the main upsides and downsides of asphalt shingle roofing:
Pros:
- Affordable – As low as $100 per square installed
- Huge variety of colors and styles
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Offer good wind and fire resistance
Cons:
- Prone to damage from hail
- Shorter lifespan than other materials
- Can be noisy during rainstorms
- Plain, flat look lacking dimension
Cost Comparison
On average, you can expect to pay $100-250 per square (100 sq ft) installed for asphalt shingles. This factors in labor and materials. While more expensive options exist, asphalt delivers excellent value given its lower lifetime cost from having to replace just once every couple decades.
Wood Shingles
If you like the natural, rustic look of wood, shingles crafted from cedar, pine, spruce or other woods may be ideal for your home. Here’s what to know about these organic roofing materials:
Overview and Background
Wood shingles are cut from the heartwood of quality lumber into thin, tapered pieces. Installed in overlapping rows, they provide excellent protection from rain and snow. Untreated wood shingles have a typical lifespan of 10-20 years. With proper chemical preservative treatments, they can last 20-30 years. Wood that naturally resists decay, like Western Red Cedar, provides the best longevity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Natural material made from sustainable forests
- Distinctive, non-uniform aesthetic
- Good fire resistance from slow combustion
Cons:
- Requires more maintenance like staining
- Vulnerable to mold, algae and rot over time
- Shorter lifespan than many other shingles
Cost Comparison
You can expect to pay $300-700 per square for installation of wood shingles. This puts them in the moderate price range – more than asphalt but less than premium materials like slate or clay tiles. Their natural charm makes wood a worthwhile investment for many homeowners despite the shorter lifespan.
Metal Shingles
Let’s look at how metal stacks up as a heavy-duty, weather-resistant roofing option.
Overview and Background
Metal shingles are fabricated from steel, copper, zinc, aluminum, or other metals. They are coated with protective stone granules or paint finishes. The most popular metal roofing materials include:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc
Thanks to their durability and lightweight panels, metal shingles are easy to install and virtually maintenance free. They come in a wide range of styles from contemporary to historic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very long lifespan – over 50 years
- Require almost no yearly maintenance
- Easy installation
- Sustainable and fully recyclable
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Vulnerable to dents and scratches
- Can be noisy during rainstorms
- Some metal stains over time
Cost Comparison
Metal shingles typically cost $600-1000 per square installed. The high initial investment pays off in their exceptional longevity of 50 years or more. Their long service life makes metal shingles a smart, cost-effective choice over time.
Clay Tiles
Let’s explore the beauty and durability of terra cotta clay tiles.
Overview and Background
Clay roof tiles are made from terracotta clay fired at high temperatures to harden and strengthen them. Clay tiles come in several classic styles:
- Spanish tiles – “S” curved shape laid in overlapping rows
- Mission tiles – shaped like half cylinders/barrels
- Flat/shingle tiles – thinnest option, laid like shakes
Given their Mediterranean origins, clay tiles thrive in hot, dry climates. Properly installed and maintained, they deliver exceptional longevity of up to 100 years.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful Old World appearance
- Very durable and long-lasting material
- Naturally fire-resistant and biodegradable
Cons:
- Heavy, requiring structural reinforcement
- Difficult DIY installation, may need roofers
- Vulnerable to damage from hard freezes
Cost Comparison
Expect to invest $700-1400 per square in clay tile roofing. The high upfront cost is offset by exceptional longevity of up to a century when properly installed and maintained.
Concrete Tiles
Let’s explore concrete roof tiles and their versatility as a protective roofing material.
Overview and Background
Concrete tiles are fabricated by pouring a mix of cement, aggregates like sand and granite, and water into molds. The tiles cure as they dry, creating a hardened finished product. They contain:
- Cement – Binds the aggregates together
- Sand – Fills voids and reduces shrinkage
- Stone aggregates – Enhance durability
- Pigments – Add color
Modern concrete tiles are economical, durable, and easy to install. They typically last 40-50 years.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impact and fire resistant
- Economical relative to clay or slate
- Medium 40-50 year lifespan
- Low maintenance required
Cons:
- Vulnerable to damage from severe hailstorms
- Can crack over time as the roof settles
- Heavier than asphalt, requiring structural checks
Cost Comparison
Installing concrete tile roofs costs $400-900 per square on average. This affordable-to-mid-range price point combined with their longevity makes concrete shingles an appealing choice.
Key Factors When Selecting Shingles
Now that we’ve covered the most popular shingle varieties, let’s recap the key factors to weigh as you assess options for your roof:
- Climate – Consider weather patterns, temperature swings, wind, and snow loads. Select materials that can withstand your conditions.
- Longevity – How often will shingles need replacement? Durability ranges from 15 years (asphalt) up to 100 years (slate).
- Roof slope – Steeply pitched roofs need high water runoff. Flat roofs require stronger shingles.
- Budget – Prices range from $100 to $1400 per square installed. Balance upfront costs with lifespan value.
- Appearance – Match shingle styles and colors to your home’s aesthetic.
- Maintenance – Frequent repairs add hassle and cost. Low-maintenance options have advantage.
- Roof weight capacity – Heavy materials like slate require reinforcement.
- Sustainability – Eco-friendly options include solar, wood, and recycled content shingles.
- Resistance – Fire and impact resistance are key in some regions.
Selecting new roof shingles for your home is an important decision requiring careful research. While asphalt is the affordable go-to, other types like metal, wood, and tile offer unique benefits. Weigh the pros and cons of each based on climate, pitch, budget, lifespan, and aesthetics. Investing in the right shingles from the start will protect your home and add to its curb appeal and value for decades to come. With this overview of your common residential shingle varieties, you now have the key facts to make an informed, confident choice!
