Different Types of Shingles: A Homeowner’s Guide

Quantum Roofing infographic on different types of shingles with an image of a complex roof

Did you know that different types of shingles now come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials? When most homeowners consider shingles, they may imagine an asphalt-based product, assuming only two primary options are available – traditional three-tab or modern architectural styles.

However, technological advances in manufacturing processes for roofing materials create opportunities that never previously existed. Everything from metal to wood can be forged into a shingle aesthetic to improve the home’s curb appeal while offering enhanced performance and reliability.

Different Types Of Shingles For Every Homeowner

No matter what kind of home you own, the right shingle exists for your situation.

Architectural Asphalt Shingles

This shingle style emerged from the desire of homeowners to have an asphalt material roofing product with added longevity and enhanced curb appeal compared to traditional three-tab shingling. Today’s architectural asphalt shingle roofing systems will last up to 30 years or more with proper upkeep. This extended lifespan results from its advanced design, incorporating newer technologies to improve durability.

Detailed view of newly installed dark gray architectural shingles on a sloped roof

Corrugated Metal Shingles

You may not know what “corrugated metal” means. However, you probably have seen many buildings with corrugated metal roofing. Corrugated metal has a rippled or wavy pattern consisting of alternating ridges and grooves. This design provides enhanced strength and stability. If you need a highly impact-resistant material with non-combustible properties, corrugated metal roofing offers an ideal solution.

Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles

As a homeowner, do you need a premium weatherproof roofing material that offers affordability? Look no further than impact-resistant asphalt shingles for your next roof replacement. These shingles are engineered to withstand extreme outside forces, including humidity, hail, wind, sleet, rain, fire, ice, and temperature swings. These shingles require fewer repairs and may qualify for a meaningful insurance discount.

Metal Shingles

Metal has come a long way since the time when it was not a viable option for residential use. Today, metal can be forged to mimic the aesthetic of traditional asphalt shingle roofing. However, metal shingles possess a much longer shelf life than asphalt shingles. Metal shingle roofing can last two to three times longer than asphalt shingle roofing, which customarily offers 15 to 25 years of service.

Standing Seam Metal Shingles

If you appreciate the sleek appearance of standing seam metal roofing, consider installing it on your home. Metal roofing offers the highest fire rating (Class A), enhanced energy efficiency, and proven durability. A metal roof will last between 40 and 80 years or more. Because it does not require significant maintenance, you can have peace of mind knowing that it will perform optimally for many years.

Synthetic Composite & Tile Shingles

Homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of composite roofing products. Synthetic composite shingles deliver the look and feel of actual roof materials, not the price tag. As an affordable alternative to traditional roofing materials, this choice enables homeowners to access a luxurious roofing aesthetic that is lightweight, customizable, long-lasting, fire-resistant, and warranty-protected.

Synthetic Slate Shingles

Many homeowners love the curb appeal of slate roofing. Unfortunately, installing slate tile roofing costs far beyond what the average homeowner’s budget allows. Recent developments in synthetic roof technology opened the door to synthetic slate shingles as a reasonable alternative to natural slate. It is much lighter, reducing structural stress on your home and offers enhanced durability because it won’t chip or break.

Synthetic Wood Shake Shingles

Avoid the frustration inherent with natural wood shingles. Real wood will rot over time. This deteriorating effect requires homeowners to perform routine maintenance to avoid premature aging and weathering. Instead of natural wood, consider synthetic wood. Synthetic wood roofing replicates the appearance of cedar or other wood grains. However, this alternative won’t rot, warp, combust, or need restaining.

Close-up view of a roof with multi-colored asphalt shingles in various shades of gray and brown

Three-Tab Composition Shingles

Most homeowners prefer the traditional look of asphalt shingles. Unfortunately, three-tab asphalt shingles have a short service life. Typically, they do not provide more than 10 to 15 years of longevity before requiring replacement. Three-tab composite shingles are a cost-effective alternative that delivers extended longevity. The simple design and the variety of colors offer an attractive minimalist aesthetic.

Wood Shake Shingles

Are you hoping to identify a roofing material with enhanced insulating properties? Wood shake shingles are the perfect energy-efficient solution for homeowners who need added warmth during winter and a cooler, more comfortable home in summer. Compared to asphalt shingles, wood and cedar shake shingles offer significant resistance to wind damage. These durable shingles will protect your home from outside forces.

Different Types Of Shingles For Every Homeowner

If you’re a homeowner in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Tennessee, Quantum Roofing has the perfect shingle roofing solution for your needs and preferences. We are the premier residential roofing contractor in the Southeastern US. We work with all different types of shingles.

Contact Quantum Roofing today to learn more about our residential roof replacement services or to schedule an appointment and receive a free roofing estimate.

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