Protecting your home starts with a strong, reliable roof. It not only shields you from the elements but also enhances your home’s curb appeal. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the U.S. because they’re affordable, versatile, and durable. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best asphalt shingles for your home? In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- Understanding asphalt shingle types
- The top asphalt shingle brands
- Determining the best roof shingles
- Other specialty shingle types
🤔 Understanding Asphalt Shingle Types
Asphalt shingles generally come in two main styles: 3-tab shingles and architectural (dimensional) shingles. Let’s break down the differences:
3-Tab Shingles
These are the most basic style of asphalt shingles, known for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Pros:
- Affordability: 3-tab shingles are the most budget-friendly option.
- Simple Aesthetic: These provide a clean, traditional look.
Cons:
- Shorter Lifespan: Typically last around 20-25 years.
- Less Durable: Not as resilient against extreme weather conditions as architectural shingles.
Cost: $70 – $100 per square.
Architectural Shingles (Dimensional Shingles)
Architectural shingles, also called dimensional shingles, are thicker and more durable than 3-tab shingles. They’re designed to provide a more textured, layered appearance that mimics wood or slate.
Pros:
- Enhanced Durability: These shingles are designed to last longer, often 30-50 years, with some brands offering lifetime warranties.
- Wind Resistance: They perform better under strong winds, especially when paired with advanced technology like GAF’s HDZ system.
- Aesthetic Variety: They come in a range of colors and textures that can mimic expensive materials.
Cons:
- Higher Upfront Cost: Architectural shingles are more expensive than 3-tab options.
Cost: $100 – $150 per square.
⭐️ Top 5 Asphalt Shingle Brands You Should Know
When it comes to asphalt shingles, choosing a reputable brand ensures that you get a product that combines aesthetics, durability, and long-term value. Below are some of the top brands, including the one we trust most for our installations: GAF.
1. GAF
As a roofing company that specializes in GAF products, we can confidently say that GAF shingles stand out as one of the best choices for homeowners in 2023. Known for their durability, wide range of styles, and excellent warranties, GAF shingles are a go-to for homeowners looking for long-lasting protection. Popular lines include:
Timberline HDZ: Known for its rugged good looks and superior wind resistance.
Timberline Ultra HD: Offers an upgraded thickness for enhanced durability.
ArmorShield II: Designed to withstand even the harshest weather conditions with class 4 impact resistance.
2. CertainTeed
CertainTeed is widely regarded as one of the top asphalt shingle brands for homeowners seeking premium quality and variety. Known for their innovative roofing solutions, CertainTeed offers a broad selection of high-quality asphalt shingles that combine durability with aesthetic appeal. Their NorthGate series features Class 4 impact resistance, making it an excellent choice for homes in areas prone to extreme weather, while the Presidential Shake series provides a luxury look by mimicking the appearance of high-end materials like wood or slate. With a strong focus on both performance and style, CertainTeed gives homeowners the opportunity to elevate their roof’s design while ensuring long-lasting protection.
3. Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a trusted name in the roofing industry, offering some of the most vibrant and durable asphalt shingles available. The Duration series is a popular choice, famous for its patented SureNail Technology, which enhances strength and wind resistance. Meanwhile, the TruDefinition series stands out for its bold color options, allowing homeowners to enhance their curb appeal with rich, eye-catching shades. Owens Corning shingles are also engineered to perform well in extreme weather conditions, offering Class 4 impact resistance and excellent energy efficiency. For homeowners looking to combine aesthetic appeal with advanced weather protection, this brand is a standout choice.
4. Tamko
Tamko is a top choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want reliable and attractive asphalt shingles. Their products are known for their affordability without compromising on quality or style. The Heritage series is particularly popular, offering a traditional laminated shingle design with modern durability. Homeowners can choose from a wide variety of colors and styles to match their home’s design aesthetic, making Tamko a versatile option. With a strong reputation for providing value, Tamko shingles are ideal for those seeking durable roofing solutions at a competitive price point.
5. IKO
IKO is a leading asphalt shingle brand known for balancing quality and affordability, making it a great option for homeowners looking to get the most for their money. The Cambridge series stands out for its high-dimensional profile and impressive performance, offering both beauty and strength. IKO shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather, including strong winds and heavy rain, ensuring reliable protection for your home. Additionally, the brand offers a diverse range of styles and colors, giving homeowners the freedom to customize their roof to fit their vision. With its focus on performance and visual appeal, IKO consistently ranks as a top choice for residential roofing projects.
👉 Why GAF Shingles Stand Out
As we mentioned earlier, our roofing company specializes in GAF shingles, and for good reason. GAF offers some of the most reliable and high-performance shingles on the market today. Their Timberline HDZ shingles, for example, feature the LayerLock™ Technology to create a tighter, more secure bond between the shingles, making them less susceptible to wind damage.
Other advantages of GAF shingles include energy efficiency, as many GAF shingles, like those with Cool Series technology, can help reduce cooling costs by reflecting more sunlight. They also come with advanced warranty options; GAF offers some of the best warranties in the industry, including the Lifetime Roofing System warranty when paired with GAF accessories and proper installation. Additionally, GAF shingles enhance curb appeal with a wide variety of colors to match any home style, from modern to traditional.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Asphalt Shingles
While cost and style are important, there are other key considerations to keep in mind. Climate plays a significant role; if you live in an area with harsh winters or frequent storms, it’s worth investing in durable, weather-resistant shingles like those from GAF or Owens Corning. Energy efficiency is another factor—opt for cool roofing shingles that reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, helping to lower energy bills in the summer. Maintenance is also essential to consider, as some shingles are easier to care for than others. Architectural shingles typically have a longer lifespan and require less upkeep compared to 3-tab shingles.
🏠 Other Specialty Shingle Types
Other specialty shingle types offer unique features like enhanced durability, energy efficiency, or aesthetic appeal, making them a great choice for homeowners with specific needs. They can elevate the look of a roof while providing tailored performance benefits.
1. Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles and shakes offer a rustic and natural appearance, adding charm and warmth to a home.
Pros:
- Aesthetics: Wood shingles provide a unique, timeless look that complements various architectural styles.
- Insulation: Wood is a natural insulator, helping to regulate indoor temperature and potentially reducing energy costs.
- Longevity: Properly maintained wood shingles can last 30 to 50 years.
Cons:
- Maintenance: Wood shingles require regular maintenance, including sealing and periodic repairs, to prevent issues like rot and moss growth.
- Fire Risk: Wood shingles are susceptible to fire, which can be a concern in areas prone to wildfires.
Cost
Wood shingles typically cost between $400 and $700 per square, depending on the type of wood and quality.
2. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has gained popularity for its sleek and modern appearance, along with its durability.
Pros:
- Longevity: Metal roofs can last 50 years or more, outlasting many other roofing materials.
- Low maintenance: Metal roofs require minimal maintenance and are resistant to issues like rot and insect damage.
- Energy efficiency: Reflective coatings can make metal roofs energy-efficient by reflecting solar heat, reducing cooling costs.
Cons:
- Noise: Rainfall on metal roofs can be noisy, although proper insulation and underlayment can mitigate this issue.
- Initial cost: Metal roofing can have a higher upfront cost compared to some other materials.
Cost
The cost of metal roofing ranges from $150 to $600 per square, depending on the type of metal and style.
3. Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are known for their elegance, durability, and timeless appeal.
Pros:
- Durability: Slate roofs can last over 100 years, making them a long-lasting investment.
- Aesthetics: Slate shingles offer a distinctive, high-end look that adds value to your home.
- Fire resistance: Slate is a non-combustible material, providing an added layer of fire protection.
Cons:
- Weight: Slate is heavy, requiring a structurally sound roof framing to support the load.
- Cost: Slate roofing is one of the most expensive options due to the material’s rarity and labor-intensive installation process.
Cost
The cost of slate shingles can range from $800 to $2,000 per square or more, depending on the quality and source of the slate.
4. Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are popular for their durability and distinct Mediterranean or Spanish-style aesthetics.
Pros:
- Longevity: Clay and concrete tiles can last 50 to 100 years or more with proper maintenance.
- Style Variety: These tiles come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and profiles, allowing for creative design options.
- Energy Efficiency: The thermal mass of clay and concrete helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption.
Cons:
- Weight: Similar to slate, clay and concrete tiles are heavy and require adequate structural support.
- Fragility: While durable, these tiles can crack or break if stepped on or subjected to heavy impact.
Cost
Clay and concrete tiles typically cost between $300 and $600 per square, depending on the style and manufacturer.
🙌 Ready to Replace Your Roof?
When choosing the best asphalt shingles for your home, consider the reputation of the brand, the materials’ performance, and your budget. GAF shingles, including their Timberline and ArmorShield lines, are a standout choice, offering a combination of durability, style, and long-term value.
At Monarch Roofing, we specialize in GAF shingles, and we’re here to help you choose the best roofing solution for your home. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium choice that offers top-tier performance, we have you covered. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s get started on upgrading your roof with the best asphalt shingles.
