The Different Types Of Roofing Shingles

• 3-Tab Roof Shingles

  3-tab roof shingles are actually the most common type of shingle and are commonly known as asphalt shingles. This type of shingle is generally rectangular in shape and the ones that you will see on most homes in the country. These shingles are also the most commonly available and the standard used when building homes.

  3-tab shingles are the ideal choice if you are concerned with price and want something that is easy to install. You also get a lot of variety with these shingles as they come in a range of different colors. The different colors can be used to match the style of your home.

• Architectural Roof Shingles

  Architectural shingles are often considered to be the premium type of 3-tab shingle. These shingles are also called laminated shingles or dimensional shingles. As with asphalt shingles, you will be able to get them in a range of different colors to match your home.

  These are actually relatively new shingles as they were first developed in the 1970’s and are now commonly used in new homes. These may be a better choice for you if you want your shingles to last longer. These shingles are also more resilient to high winds which make them ideal for areas with wind.

• Tile Roof Shingles

  Historic properties and homes with certain architectural styles such as the California mission will have tile roof shingles. These shingles are generally made from terracotta and are widely used on the Southwest. This is due to the fact that they are more energy efficient than other roofing shingles.

  Tile roofing shingles will come in a range of different styles and colors even though the most widely known is the wave-shaped Spanish tile. Additionally, high-quality roofing shingles will last for around 50 years. There are some tile roofs that are over 100 years old and many of the tile shingle manufacturers will offer a 75-year warranty on their clay tiles.

• Wood Roof Shingles

  Wood shingles are actually very popular and have been around for centuries. This is considered to be a sustainable roofing option and will offer better insulation than asphalt. When you combine these shingles with the construction style of your home, you will find that it takes on a completely different feel.

  There are 2 different types of wood shingles that you can get. These are the wood shingles and the wood shakes which are not actually the same. Wood shingles are usually sawn to create a smooth and tapered profile. Wood shakes, on the other hand, will be split on the side to form a textured grain appearance. Shakes will also be thicker than the shingles.

  Shake roof shingles are not only used on roofs but also siding. They are often made from cedar but can be from other wood. Shakes will also have a more rustic appearance compared to the shingles which are smoother.

• Slate Roof Shingles

  In the mid-1800’s, slate roofing became more popular and started to replace wood shingles. This is due to the fact that slate roof tiles are eco-friendly, durable and fireproof. Some of the oldest structures in the country still have their original slate roofs.

  Slate roof tiles are made from natural stone and will have the wonderful color variations that come from the stone surface. Slate deposits where these tiles come from will have different combinations of color which will make your roofing different to other homes.

• Solar Roof Shingles

  One of the newest shingles on the market is the solar roof shingles. These are a combination of roof tiles and solar panels which will provide energy to your home. These tiles were actually created in the late 1990’s, but have only been gaining traction in recent years.

  These shingles will have a thin-film PV cell which has been designed to look like a traditional roof shingle. This allows the shingle to protect your home in the same manner as a normal shingle, while still providing solar power. The primary issue that people have with these shingles is the price as they are still rather expensive.

  There are many different types of roof shingles that you can use in your home. However, it is important to know that some shingles are not ideal for all homes such as slate which will be heavier than other types of roofing tiles. To use these shingles, you will need to have additional support for your roof which will increase the costs.