Once you have made the decision to invest in a new roof, the next choice is which type of shingle to use, each of which has its own benefits based on factors such as appearance, durability and cost.

The most common shingle for a residential location is an asphalt (or composition) shingle. This category is further broken up into two sub-categories, differentiated by their base material. They consist of either an “organic” fiber mat or fiberglass core. Each type is saturated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules to add color and texture. They usually have three sections or “tabs” per shingle and an overall length of 3 feet. Fiberglass shingles resist fire better than organic/paper mats and typically obtain a class “A” fire rating. Although both types of asphalt shingle range in durability, they have an average lifespan of 20-30 years. A comparison of manufacturer warrantees will offer more details on the expected lifespan of each specific product.

Laminated (or architectural) shingles are a newer variation on the traditional shingle types. They have become increasingly popular in recent years and utilize multiple, staggered layers of material (usually fiberglass asphalt) to create a more aesthetically appealing design. Designed to add character and depth to the roof, laminate shingles are heavier, more expensive and typically more durable than the more common 3-tab shingles.

Another roofing material sometimes employed is slate (stone) shingles. This option is highly durable (100+ years) in terms of exposure to the elements and virtually unaffected by mildew/mold/rotting but is much more prone to damage when contacted with falling branches or debris, so may not be the best option for a heavily wooded area. It is also approximately three times heavier per square foot than asphalt, which offers excellent blow-off resistance. Arguably the largest advantage of slate roofing is that it adds a colorful, hand-crafted look that adds to the overall appearance of a house.

The last of the more commonly used shingle materials is the classic wood shingle. Wood shingles can be either sawn or split and are usually made of either cedar, spruce or treated pine. They typically have a rough, textured look on the front and are smooth on the back and sides for a secure fit. When initially installed, wood shingles are brown or reddish in color, but typically fade to a gray color in the first year or so. A wooden roof normally lasts about 30 years but individually shingles may shrink, warp or splinter within this time.

It is recommended that you consult with your contractor before choosing a shingle type in order to find out if certain materials have additional advantages or drawbacks based on your particular geographical location.