Choosing the right roofing material for your home can be very overwhelming. You want quality materials that are built to last and require little maintenance over the years.

When deciding on roof shingles, there are many options to select from. The type of roofing material you select is dependent on a few factors, such as the pitch and shape of your roof, the climate of where you live, and the durability and quality of the materials.

The durability of the roofing materials is important. It will determine how well your new roof can withstand the weather conditions that are common in your area.

Here some of the different types of residential roof shingles you may be considering and some of their benefits:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common of all roofing material. This is due to their versatility, affordability, and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles are typically used for steep residential roofs.

Pros of asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are available in a multitude of colors, are available almost everywhere, and are one of the most affordable of all the roofing materials.

Cons of asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than some of the other roofing choices and quality varies.

Style

Asphalt shingles compliment nearly any architectural style.

Longevity

Asphalt shingles are a durable option and can last from 20 to 40 years in a mild climate. In cases of extreme cold or hot weather climates, they may last for 15 to 30 years.

Price

Prices for asphalt shingles range from $70 to $120 a roofing square.

Wood Shingles

Many homeowners love the look of natural, rough-edged wood shingles and shake, making them another popular choice.

Pros of wood shingles

Wood shingles offer a beautiful, rustic look and consist of natural materials, including cedar, redwood, and southern pine.

Cons of wood shingles

Fire codes prohibit the use of wood shingles in certain areas. Wood shingles may also mold in certain climates, and they are usually more expensive than asphalt shingles.

Style

Wood shingles pair beautifully with bungalow and craftsman style homes, among others.

Longevity

Prices can start around $100 to $500 a roofing square.

Price

Wood shingles last approximately 25 to 30 years.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofs offer a distinctive and elegant appearance. Slate comes in specific colors including shades of black, green, grey, red, and purple.

Pros of slate

Slate is fire-resistant, durable, and sustainable, meaning slate can be recycled.

Cons of slate

Slate is more expensive than other materials, and since the material is heavy and requires extra framing, installation is more complicated.

Style

Slate pairs best with European style homes, including French chateau and colonial.

Longevity

Slate should last 50 years, but it may even last up to 100 years in some cases.

Price

Prices start at approximately $600 a square and increase from there.

How to Select the Right Shingle?

If you’re wondering which shingle to select for your new roof, you need to consider other factors, including:

What’s the slope and pitch of your roof?

Slope refers to how steep the angle of your roof is. Depending on how steep the slope of your roof is, it may not be well suited for heavier roof shingle types, like slate tiles.

What are the weight limits of your structure?

The weight of shingle materials differs. It’s important to know how much weight your home can safely support before selecting shingles.

How will climate affect your new roof?

Consider the weather conditions in your area during the material selection process.

Your local, trusted roofing professionals at Armorvue Home Exteriors can help you decide which roofing material is right for your home, so let us know if you have any roofing related questions or needs. We’ve been installing new roofs in this community for over 75 years, and we are a trusted resource in terms of what roofing materials work well in this region. Call now for a virtual appointment.