What are the 3 Types of Shingles Used When Roofing?

Angled shingle roof

Explore The Benefits of Shingle Roofing

Roofing may seem like a boring subject, but it is a necessity for homes in and around Sugarland, Texas, and beyond. But even if it may seem a shingle is a shingle is a shingle, there are choices and decisions to be made when choosing shingle roofing materials.

What is the best type of shingle roof?

Four of the most common shingle roofing materials are:   

1. Asphalt shingle roofing

The most commonly used type of shingle roofing around the country. Within the category of asphalt shingle roofing materials, there are three types:  

  • Three-tab asphalt shingles. These lay flat and have three abs on each strip. The most common of all shingle roofing is losing market place today to architectural shingles.
  • Architectural asphalt shingles. Also known as dimensional shingles have a random appearance in pattern. Provides a look of luxury shingles but at a lower cost.
  • Luxury asphalt shingles. Also referred to as premium shingles, mimic slate roof shingles.  These are common in high-end homes. 

2. Composite shingle roofing

Composite shingles are synthetic materials of recycled materials like plastic and rubber and is new to the roofing industry but becoming more popular. These shingle roofing materials mimic cedar shake and slate roofing materials. 

3. Cedar shake shingle roofing

Next on the list of shingle roofing materials are cedar shake shingles, a natural wood. These shingles do not hold their color and over time as they are weathered, they crack, curl, and rot. Cedar shake shingle roofing material does not come with any warranty because of this. 

4. Slate shingles roofing

Slate shingle roofing material is last on this list., but not necessarily last to consider, depending on your budget and design desire. This is a natural material, most slate comes from Italy, hence the higher cost for this type of shingle roofing material. 

How many years do shingle roofs last?

This will depend on which type of shingle roofing material you choose and the climate where you live.  Most asphalt shingle roofing material, the three-tab style, has a lifespan maximum of 20 years. Architectural shingle roofing materials have a maximum lifespan of 30 years.

What is the cheapest shingle roofing material?

The three-tab shingle roofing material is the least expensive in shingle roofing material. It is important to note that you get what you pay for!  For just a few dollars more, going with architectural asphalt shingles will give you a better quality shingle roofing result. 

Which type of roof is the most durable shingle roof?

For a durable shingle roofing material, choose the luxury asphalt shingle material. Also referred to as premium asphalt shingle roof material, it mimics slate tile roofing and has an average lifespan of up to 30 years, perhaps longer. 

What type of roof is the most cost-effective shingle roofing material?

Even the least expensive, lowest-quality asphalt shingle roofing material is going to be the best choice for cost-effectiveness.  Asphalt shingles can have a minimum lifespan of 15 years and a maximum lifespan of 30 years. For a homeowner on a tight budget, these are your best options and are cost-effective. 

Is it OK to shingle over old shingles?

It is not recommended by quality roofing contractors and in many cities, it is against building code policies. Many shingle roofing manufacturers will not honor their guarantee or warranty if it is determined that there is an old roof under their roofing material. Insurance companies recommend against installing new roofing over an existing as well, and if upon inspection for new roofing they find there is more than layer of roofing, they will probably decline any claim and possibly cancel your policy.

Why is this a problem? The new shingles can’t settle to the actual roof, creating the best coverage and protection possible. If the existing shingles have any issues when the new shingles are installed, it can affect the new layer of shingles. Additionally, another concern with installing new shingle roof material over an existing one is the weight it will put on the structure.  

What color roof shingles last the longest?

In the southern part of the country, like here in Sugarland, Texas, going with a light color shingle will last longer.  Additionally, a light-colored asphalt shingle roof can help your energy bills by keeping your home cooler, putting less strain on the air conditioning unit. 

Topping Off This Blog

As a homeowner, you should do monthly inspections of your home, and after significant weather events. Checking the roofing on a frequent routine will allow you to catch small problems and have roofing repairs done before they become bigger, more expensive, and more extensive problems later. Staying on top of your roof’s condition, you’ll avoid the possibility of your homeowner’s insurance being canceled due to homeowner neglect. Get in touch with us now at (832) 598-4245 for shingle roofing in Rosenberg and Sugar Land, TX!