Buying guide for best asphalt roofing shingles
Find the perfect roofing shingles to match your home and budget.
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Shingle roofs are the most common choice for roofs in the U.S. Roof shingles come in lots of styles and are made from many different materials, so choosing the right kind of shingle for your roof can be overwhelming if you don't know what you're looking for. Here's a quick breakdown of the shingle basics.
Most common types of shingles
Roof shingles are manufactured from different materials, including asphalt, slate, wood shake and metal. Asphalt shingles are the most popular and come in three main styles; architectural, 3-tab and luxury.
Architectural shingles are made from asphalt but are designed to mimic the appearance of natural materials, such as wood or slate. They're layered to create a multi-dimensional look, and they offer solid wind-resistant protection. Architectural shingles also boast a long lifespan, with many lasting 30 years or longer.
3-tab shingles are usually made from asphalt and are more budget-friendly. They're lightweight and relatively easy to install but lack some of the durability of other more expensive options due to their thinner, flatter design.
Luxury shingles are premium asphalt roofing shingles designed to look like high-quality slate. They provide superior strength, durability and a more visually striking aesthetic. They're often available in various color options and are among the toughest and most storm-resistant shingles you can buy.
Best asphalt shingles for roofs
In this guide, we focused on asphalt shingles because they're the most common type of roofing shingles. We also organized our recommendations by type, to help find exactly what you're looking for.
Best architecture shingles
Currently, the number one selling brand of roofing shingles in America , the GAF Timberline HDZ roofing shingles offer a satisfying combination of durability, style, and cutting-edge technology. This line of asphalt shingles is designed with a high-definition look that compliments a wide range of architectural styles and is available in a variety of different finishes.
Using GAF’s LayerLock technology, they provide a strong, lasting bond between shingles, and are relatively quick and easy to install. They are coated with algae-resistant granules and include a wind-resistant warranty that covers wind speeds of up to 130 mph, making them a solid stormproof choice.
On the downside, the curb appeal and durability they offer do come at a premium, and as such, they may not be suitable for everyone’s budget. However, if you’re looking for long-term value and aesthetic appeal, it’s unlikely that you’ll be disappointed.
- High-definition look
- Algae-resistant
- Windproof up to 130 mph
- Expensive per bundle
Architectural shingles provide a highly desirable look that expertly mimics the appearance of natural materials such as wood or slate, and Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration architectural shingles are no exception. They provide a bold, multi-dimensional design, and come in a striking range of colors, such as Onyx Black.
Thanks to Owens Corning’s patented SureNail technology, these shingles are exceptionally durable, and rated for wind speeds up to 130 mph. They are algae-resistant and able to maintain their appearance over time. Plus, with TruDefinition color technology, their color keeps its vibrancy without being dulled down.
As you might expect, these top-tier architectural shingles come with a premium price tag compared to more basic asphalt shingles. However, their blend of features and stunning design make them a worthwhile investment for homeowners who are seeking a long-lasting roofing solution with a style to match.
- Layered, multi-dimensional design
- Algae resistant
- Can withstand wind speeds of 130 mph
- Color keeps its vibrancy
- Expensive compared to basic asphalt shingles
If you’re re-roofing your home on a budget, the IKO Cambridge Laminated Asphalt Shingles are a reliable and stylish choice that could save you money. They feature a classic architectural design and come in a range of color variations, with a laminated design that adds extra dimension and thickness to enhance the look of your home.
IKO Cambridge shingles offer impressive durability for the price and perform well against everyday weather conditions. They represent an economical choice for larger-scale roofing projects where keeping costs down is essential, and they’re relatively easy to install as well, which makes them particularly suitable for DIY roofing projects.
As you might expect, they don’t have the same durability factor as other more premium choices, and won’t provide the same level of storm and wind-resistant protection. However, provided that you don’t live in an area prone to adverse weather conditions, they represent excellent value for money and a satisfying finish.
- Impressive durability for the price
- Available in a range of colors
- An economical choice for large-scale projects
- Not as wind-resistant as more premium alternatives
Best 3-tab roof shingles
For a reliable and budget-friendly roofing option, you can’t go wrong with GAF Royal Sovereign 3-tab roof shingles. Available in several finishes, they provide a clean and uniform look that will appeal to homeowners who are seeking a more straightforward solution that won’t break the bank.
Covered by a 25-year warranty, these 3-tab shingles offer long-term peace of mind for buyers. The shingles themselves are reinforced with StainGuard protection that is resistant to algae growth and helps to maintain their look over time. Plus, they have a lightweight and easy-to-install design that makes them practical for both roofing contractors and DIY roofing projects.
They lack the dimensional appearance of architectural shingles and don’t offer the same level of wind-resistant protection. However, for anybody prioritizing affordability and simplicity, they represent good value for money and offer dependable performance.
- Provide a clean and uniform look
- Resistant to algae growth
- Easy to install
- Lack the dimensional appearance of architectural; shingles
- Lackthe durability factor of more premium alternatives
Owens Corning Supreme 3-tab Shingles represent a cost-effective roofing solution for homeowners seeking a more traditional look. These 3-tab shingles have a simple, flat design, giving roofs a clean and uniform appearance while delivering dependable protection against the elements.
They are built to withstand wind speeds of up to 60mph and resist color degradation thanks to Owens Corning's advanced TruDefinition technology, which helps to ensure consistent and lasting color across the roof. Being 3-tab shingles, they are also significantly lighter and easier to install, which can help drive down labor costs.
The trade-off for the lightweight construction and relative ease of installation is that they do not offer the same durability as architectural and luxury shingles. However, for anybody with budget constraints, they remain an excellent choice.
- Affordability
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Color protected
- Less durable than some alternatives
Tamko Elite Glass-Seal 3-tab Shingles are made with a glass-fiber mat construction, which delivers extra strength and protection against everyday wear and tear. They come with a Class A fire rating, a limited lifetime warranty and are a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious buyers.
Despite being more cost-effective, these 3-tab shingles are fairly robust and offer good wind and impact resistance. This makes them suitable for a range of climates and weather conditions and provides reliable year-round protection.
One potential drawback is that these shingles have a fairly basic appearance and lack aesthetic appeal. You may want to invest in a more high-tier option if you're looking to increase the resale value as much as possible.
- Cost-effective
- Reliable weather and impact protection
- Class A fire rating
- Somewhat basic appearance
Best luxury shingles for roofs
Designed to replicate the look of slate at a fraction of the cost, CertainTeed Belmont luxury roofing shingles combine a sophisticated look with long-lasting performance. They’re the ideal choice for homeowners who are seeking a premium look but don’t want the complications or expense of installing a traditional slate roof.
Besides offering a desirable look, these luxury shingles are packed with safety features that provide peace of mind for homeowners. They’re rated Class A fire-resistant, designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph and incorporate CertainTeed’s StreakFighter technology to help combat algae growth (with a warranty of 30 years), meaning that pristine look will last throughout the seasons.
Naturally, their premium look and performance come with a price to match, particularly when compared to standard asphalt roofing shingles. However, they are a versatile choice, equally suited to new and existing roofs alike, requiring very little maintenance, and are available in a range of dynamic color options to suit all tastes.
- Premium finish
- Algae-resistant
- Class A fire resistant
- Can withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph
- Expensive
Mimicking the look of natural slate but without the additional weight (and at a fraction of the cost), IKO Crowne Slate roofing shingles are designed with a multi-layered construction that provides exceptional durability and enhanced curb appeal.
These luxury shingles have a Class 4 impact resistance, the highest rating possible, against hail and adverse weather conditions. In addition, they incorporate UV-resistant granules that protect them against color fading and resist algae, making them a dependable long-term prospect.
Although these luxury shingles come with a higher upfront cost than more standard shingles, their premium durability, best-in-class impact resistance, and upscaled appearance can add long-term value to your home, potentially offsetting the higher cost with their extended lifespan.
- Replicates the look of natural slate
- Exceptional impact resistance
- Highly wind-resistant
- Expensive
For anyone looking to replicate the classic style of rustic hand-cut wood shakes, GAF Grand Canyon Shingles could be the ideal choice for you. These premium roofing shingles are available in many natural color blends and provide the same aesthetic appeal of real wood without the associated maintenance concerns.
Besides their visual appeal, they're tough and durable. Featuring Advanced Protection shingle technology, they are highly resistant to severe weather conditions and have a Class A fire rating. Additionally, their multi-layered construction makes them a good choice for impact resistance.
On the downside, these shingles are heavier than other luxury options and require a strong roof structure. However, their enhanced durability and long-lasting performance make them a great investment for homeowners who appreciate a high-end wood shake look.
- Replicates classic wood shake style
- Excellent weather resistance
- Class A fire rating
- Expensive
- Heavy
Comparing top shingle brands
There's no shortage of roof shingle brands, but comparing them and their styles can be confusing, especially if you're uncertain of what to look for. Below you'll find key considerations when researching roofing brands.
Consider the estimated lifespan of your preferred style and the manufacturer's warranty options. This is especially important if you live in an area with a high risk of storms or adverse weather.
It is wise to check each shingle type's wind and fire resistance, and you should research each brand and specific product's suitability for your climate. If your location is susceptible to extreme heat, heavy snow, or coastal humidity, pick shingles with a high level of weatherproof protection.
Consider the best-selling brands, many of which are featured in this article, particularly those in your area, and go with a reliable brand with an established track record of high-quality installations. Price is important, too, so obtaining reliable estimates for the overall cost is essential before committing to a particular brand or style.
Finally, check out your choices in person, and touch and feel them. Ensure you're happy with the style and finish provided by the brand you choose and are satisfied that it gives your home the look you seek. Take your time before rushing into a decision and make sure you tick all the important boxes before settling on a particular brand and style.
