7 Types of Roof Shingles

When it comes to replacing your roof, you’ll assume that there are just one type of shingles that you’ll have installed. The fact is, there are lots of different types of shingles out there that you should be aware of. They all have different benefits, so you’ll want to be aware of these before you make a decision. Here are some of the most popular options for you right now. 

In this article, we’re taking a closer look at the many types of roof shingles.

Types of Roof Shingles

Roof shingles are a popular and essential roofing material for homes and buildings. They come in various types, styles, and materials, each offering different benefits and drawbacks.

Some of the most common types of roof shingles include asphalt, metal, wood, slate, and tile shingles. Each type has unique features, such as durability, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal, making them more suitable for certain applications than others. Understanding the different types of roof shingles and their characteristics can help homeowners and contractors choose the best roofing material for their specific needs and preferences.

Here’s what you need to know about the many types of roof shingles.

1. Tab Shingles

These shingles are some of the most common ones out there right now, as they are some of the most affordable options on the market. The shingles are made from asphalt and have three tabs on top that are used to attach them to the roof. 

Many homeowners pick them because not only are they highly affordable, but they’re also very easy to install. That makes getting them on the roof quicker and ready to face the elements. 

The downside to these shingles is that they aren’t as hardy as other options. Even if you take the best care of them, they will still need replacing in around 20 – 25 years. That’s the payoff to cheaper shingles, though, so you’ll need to consider that. 

2. Metal Shingles

When you think of metal roofing, you’ll think of large metal sheets attached to your roof. These have a lot of benefits, but if you want a shingled look with all the benefits of metal roofing, you can get metal shingles. 

These are sheets of metal that are molded to look like shingles, so you’ll get the look while having very few seams on your roof. That makes it more waterproof than a shingled roof, as there are fewer areas where water could possibly get in. Metal roofs are also a good option if you want a roof that will last a long time, as they easily last upwards of 50 years

As they’re such hardy roofs, metal roofs will be more expensive to install than other kinds out there. You’ll need to factor that cost in when you’re considering which roofing shingles you want. 

3. Wooden Shingles

Wooden shingles are an option for your roof, and many homeowners like them as they add a lot of old-world character and charm to their homes. You have two options when it comes to wood on your roof: you can have wood shingles, which are cut evenly, and wood shakes, which are hand split and have a more rustic look. 

Whichever style you choose, you’ll see that they can last anywhere from 15 to 40 years, depending on how they were treated before they were installed on your roof. If you want them to last longer, you’ll need to ensure that you’re maintaining them throughout your life. They take a lot more care than other shingle styles, so you’ll have to be ready to commit to that before installing them. 

4. Rubber Shingles

Here’s an option you may not have considered for your roof. A rubber roof is very similar to an asphalt shingled roof in appearance but offers you additional benefits. They’re great at insulating your roof, so you can reduce your utility bills when heating and cooling your home. They’re also very easy to install, so again won’t take too long to get put on your roof. 

These shingles have a similar lifespan to asphalt shingles, lasting around 15 – 25 years before needing replacement. The main difference is that they’re somewhat more expensive to have installed. There are several different rubber types, such as TPO, PVC, or EPDM roofing, so you can take your pick and control the cost that way. 

5. Tile Shingles

When it comes to roofing tiles, there are several different materials that these shingles can be made from. These include ceramic tiles, stone and slate, concrete, and more. They’re all similar in their hardiness and longevity, though; most can last up to 100 years when well taken care of. 

You’ll need to ensure they are installed correctly to get that lifespan from the shingles. That means finding a roofer that has experience in installing roof tiles. The installation will cost more as a result. However, that cost is worth it for many as they last for so long. 

6. Composite Plastic Shingles

Here’s another option you may not have been aware was available. These shingles are typically made from recycled plastics and can be made to mimic other styles of shingles, such as clay or ceramic tiles. 

They’re a good option for those who want to be more environmentally friendly with their roof replacement, as the plastic used is getting a second life on their home. They’re also great as they’re a lot lighter than other options, so they aren’t putting as much pressure on the roof structure. What you will see, though, is that they don’t have a very long lifespan. They will last for around 20 years, depending on the plastic used in their construction. 

7. Solar Shingles

Finally, have you thought about having solar shingles installed on your roof? As the name implies, these shingles are designed to capture UV rays and turn them into energy for your home. It’s an option you’ll want to consider if you’re trying to save money on utility bills and want to be more eco-friendly

As you imagine, they cost more than other shingle options if you want to have them installed. The good news is that they aren’t installed across your whole roof. Instead, they are typically installed on the south side of your roof, so you don’t need many to get the effect you want. 

There are lots of different options when it comes to the shingles that you install on your roof. You’ve seen here that there are more options here than you realized. Pick the shingles that work best for you, and talk to your roofer about installing them.