9 Roof Shingle Types for Your Home
When shopping for a new roof, there are various shingle types to consider. Each type has its advantages and drawbacks, so it’s essential to research and understand the differences before deciding. While most homes in the New Jersey area tend to utilize the traditional asphalt shingle roof, there are other options to consider and discuss with the roofing experts at Matute Roofing. Our trained and professional team ensures you understand all of the options to make the right choice. Roofs are a significant investment that can increase your home’s curb appeal and value and are a structural element meant to last for years.
9 Roof Shingle Types to Consider
Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular types of shingles used in residential construction today. Available as 3-tab shingles, architectural-style shingles, or fiberglass asphalt shingles, these types typically last 20-30 years, depending on the material used. As with any aspect of your home, shingles typically require regular maintenance to keep them in the best possible condition. Asphalt shingles effectively protect areas with inclement weather, which is why Matute Roofing is an expert in repairing, replacing and maintaining this specific product.
- 3-tab asphalt shingles are the most affordable shingle. This easy-to-install product is thinner, has an organic-mat paper base, and wears out more quickly than fiberglass or architectural shingles.
- Architectural-style shingles offer a sculpted look with an extra layer of laminate. Offered in more luxurious-looking styles, this type of shingle can simulate wood shaker designs. Architectural asphalt shingles can last from 30-50 years with proper maintenance.
Wood Shingles:
Wood shingles are made from several types of wood and offer an attractive look that can give your home character and charm. They are machine-cut, and each looks the same. Wood shingles are expensive to install and must be regularly treated with preservatives or sealants to keep them in good condition. They typically last 15-30 years, depending on weather conditions and how the wood is treated before installation. Wood shingles will need more frequent maintenance than other materials like asphalt or metal and are not an install-and-forget product.
Wood Shake Shingles
Shake shingles are composed of cedar. The cedar trees used are between 200 and 300 years old, making them not environmentally sustainable. Logs are split into sections known as shakes to make the wood shake shingles. This process gives this style of shingles a characteristically rough look. Shake shingles are known for lasting longer than asphalt shingles when installed and maintained correctly. The classy look of wood shake shingles is expensive, but they can last 30 to 40 years.
Metal Shingles:
Metal roofs have grown in popularity over the past few years due to their durability and ease of installation. They can last well over 50 years with little-to-no maintenance needed. Metal roofs are often more expensive than other materials due to their longer lifespan, but they can be cost-effective when installed over existing roofs due to their lightweight nature. Metal shingles are only one option when it comes to metal roofs. Others come in sheets and are available in aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc metals. This variety makes it an excellent option for those looking to make a metal roof investment.
Slate Shingles:
Slate is one of the oldest roofing materials still in use today. Due to its unique appearance and durability, slate has been used since ancient times. Often seen on homes with historical significance or built in traditional styles, the classic look of slate shingles adds charm and character to any home exterior. Slate roofs can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance. Due to their thick composition, they also provideexcellent protection against weather damage such as hail storms or high winds. Slate roofs are significantly heavier than other materials, so they must only be installed carefully on structurally sound homes.
Rubber Shingles:
Rubber shingles are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners due to their cost-effectiveness and durability. This unique product is made of rubber formed into the shape of shingles and comes in an array of colors and styles. This easy-to-install style allows for more creative freedom when designing a home’s exterior and is more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles. Rubber shingles last up to 15-25 years with proper installation and maintenance, making them an excellent long-term investment. They can also withstand extreme weather conditions like hail and strong winds. Additionally, rubber shingles can help improve energy costs and lower energy bills.
Solar Shingles:
This style of shingle is the most modern type of roof available today. As the most expensive shingle type, they do more than keep the elements out. Solar shingles generate electricity to power your home. They are visually pleasing and don’t need to be installed over the entire roof to be effective. Homeowners will need to select a complementary shingle to cover other areas of the roof. Solar roof shingles work best when installed on the roof’s south side. Although they can last between 20-25 years, solar shingles are not best suited for areas with severe weather or little sunlight.
Wood Shake Shingles
Shake shingles are composed of cedar. The cedar trees used are between 200 and 300 years old, making them not environmentally sustainable. Logs are split into sections known as shakes to make the wood shake shingles. This process gives this style of shingles a characteristically rough look. Shake shingles are known for lasting longer than asphalt shingles when installed and maintained correctly. The classy look of wood shake shingles is expensive, but they can last 30 to 40 years.
Composite Plastic Shingles:
This environmentally friendly product is produced from recycled plastic materials. Composite plastic shingles can appear as slate tiles or wood shakes, so homeowners can have an aesthetically pleasing home and help the environment. With their lightweight, they are easy to install and affordable. Unfortunately, they are not known for longevity. Composite plastic shingles typically last between 7-20 years, depending on the plastic’s makeup.
Tile Roofing Shingles:
Tile shingles are one of the most durable roofing products today. With this product, proper installation is the most considerable expense. Although the actual tile is inexpensive, homeowners need to consider strengthening their roofs to handle this product’s additional weight. Some tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance and installation.
When shopping for a new roof for your home, many options are available depending on your budget and desired aesthetic look. Asphalt shingles provide an affordable solution for homeowners looking for a long-lasting roof without needing too much maintenance. Wood shingles offer an attractive look but require more frequent upkeep, and metal roofs provide excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. Slate provides style and longevity all rolled into one package if properly cared for throughout its service life.
Expert Installation is Crucial
Every homeowner should carefully research each type of available roofing shingle before deciding. Each offers unique benefits that may suit different individual needs better than others, but expert installation is vital in any roof replacement.
Thankfully, there are no more honest, dependable, and professional contractors in the New Jersey area than Matute Roofing. We are family-owned & operated roofing contractors with over 20 years of experience in the roofing industry. Our experienced crew will help with any insulation problems or questions!
If you require inspections, repairs, or other roofing services, please call us at 973-618-6489. You can also fill out our contact form or check us out on social media — Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.