What type of shingles should i buy

Asphalt shingles are durable, affordable and come in incredible variety of colors and styles to match almost any exterior. So how do you choose? There are three primary types of asphalt shingles used for the roof on a house: 3-tab shingles, dimensional shingles , and luxury shingles.

While all three kinds of asphalt shingles are made of similar materials, they are not exactly the same. Fewer aesthetic options, potential blow-off issues and a shorter lifespan. They are the most basic form of shingle, made out of a single layer of asphalt and cut into strips.

They appear flat, offering a type of slate look to your roof upon installation. The downside to 3-tab shingles is their limited aesthetic options and they have the potential to blow off easier than other asphalt shingles types.

Generally, the expected lifespan of a 3-tab shingle roof is years. During manufacturing, they are given two or more layers to create a thicker, multi-dimensional appearance to the final roof. They can be designed to replicate natural slate or wood shake aesthetics so could potentially boost the curb appeal to your home. One disadvantage of dimensional shingles is that they are heavier than 3-tab shingles, so they add more weight to your roof.

However, they tend to be more durable due to their double layers. Fine Home Building Magazine Issue reports that dimensional asphalt shingles also known as architectural laminate shingles accounted for nearly three-quarters of all asphalt roofing sales in Everything points to that trend continuing through You can expect most dimensional shingle roofs to come with a year manufacturer warranty. When installed properly, you can expect your dimensional shingle roof to last years.

Multi-Dimensional appearance; m aximum durability; m ore affordable than slate or cedar alternatives. Standing seam metal roofing features a series of ridges or vertical seams running up the roof slope. Standing seam panels for a metal roof are typically made from:. Different in appearance from a standing seam or flat panel roof, metal roofing shingles are stone-coated steel panels that simulate concrete or clay tile roofing, and wood shakes.

Your roofing shingle choice and roofing system may be dictated by local business code requirements, manufacturer warranties, and system warranties. Additionally, some roofing materials may require special roof deck preparation or reinforced structural elements. This offers a double layer of protection against the elements.

It often makes the most sense to install solar panels during a reroof or new roofing construction. Find the perfect match for your next roof by scrolling through our large selection of asphalt roofing shingles , available in many different colors and styles. Find independent roofing contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network in your area to request a quote.

Getting the color and shape of shingle you always wanted is a great way to express your individual personality and add real value. Owens Corning. Planning Your Roof. Roof Damage. Hiring a Contractor.

Roofing Blog. Components Explore Components. Advanced Features. Roofing System. Total Protection is more than shingle deep. Design and Inspire Explore All. Upload a picture and "try on" shingles. Warranty Information. The fiberglass provides the strength, while the asphalt, often mixed with minerals, is waterproof.

The ceramic granules give shingles their color and also help deflect UV light, which has damaging effects. Relatively lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install, asphalt shingles are the best choice for most houses.

They come in sheets that are layered on a roof to give the illusion of more expensive single shingles, such as cedar and slate, that are installed one shingle at a time. Asphalt shingles fall into three basic categories. Standard, entry-level 3-tab shingles are the cheapest and thinnest. Architectural shingles are a step up from 3-tab shingles. They're slightly thicker and made to resemble more expensive wood shakes. Multilayered architectural shingles are the most expensive and thickest of the group, and give a similar look to wood shakes.

This composite material looks like the real thing, even close up, but costs a lot less. Some faux slate may fade or crack under impact. Only a skilled mason can install real slate. The warranties on faux slate roofing are generally comparable to those for asphalt shingles—expect them to last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. Metal roofing comes in steel, aluminum, copper, and alloy strips, and in various shapes and textures.

Copper is especially expensive. Over time, copper acquires a greenish patina that some people find attractive. Metal roofing can be slick, just like slate, so consider installing snow guards in cold climates to prevent sheets of ice from sliding off and hurting someone.

A metal roof can be noisy during a rainstorm as drops of water ping against it. Make sure you hire a contractor who is familiar with the material because installing metal is very different from putting on asphalt shingles.

A metal roof can last anywhere from 50 to years. We respect your privacy. All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story. Sign In. Become a Member. Remember Me. Forgot username or password? Not a member? Need further assistance? Please call Member Services at Sign in or Become a Member.

Roofing Buying Guide Last updated: March 18, Find the Best Roofing for Your Home We test, evaluate, and compare roofing for performance and longevity so you can make the best decision. Do You Need a New Roof? Decide on a Roofing Type First, figure out what type of roofing you want.