Explore the Pros and Cons of Different Types of Roof Shingles

Shingle all the way

rural house with grey shingles
Photo: bbbrrn / iStock / Getty Images
rural house with grey shingles
Photo: bbbrrn / iStock / Getty Images
Kate Fann
Written by Kate Fann
Contributing Writer
Ami Feller
Reviewed by Ami Feller
Owner, Roofer Chicks
Updated May 8, 2024
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Your home’s roofing provides essential functions to your comfort and well-being, and stands as an important element of your home’s visual appearance. There is a dizzying array of roof shingles on the market and, when it comes time to replace yours, you will want to choose the right one for your needs. We have got you covered with this handy guide to the different types of shingles.

Angi Tip
The many factors that play into choosing a roofing material may surprise you, such as durability, cost, style, and the climate in which you live. Many homeowners choose asphalt, but there are various types on the market. A roofer can advise you on the best materials for your home and region.
Samantha Velez
Content Editor, Angi

1. 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

close up of dark grey asphalt shingles
Photo: Ratchat / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Three-tab shingles are the least expensive type of asphalt shingle. Cut in a long, thin shape, they are also called strip shingles. Three-tab shingles include a single layer of asphalt, are lightweight, and lie flat.

ProsCons
Affordable installationLess durable than other asphalt shingles
Cost-effective materialsLooks expensive compared to other types
Easy to replace or repairRelatively short life span

Best for: Homeowners on a tight budget or those looking for a cost-effective roofing solution without sacrificing quality.

2. Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Architectural shingles are the most common asphalt shingles for new homes. Made with an extra laminated layer, they have a rounded appearance compared to the flat look of three-tab shingles and provide additional resistance to weather. Next to the uniform look of three-tab shingles, the distinctive alternating pattern of dimensional shingles adds depth to a roof’s appearance.

ProsCons
DurableHigher cost than 3-tab shingles
Weather resistantComposed of more asphalt than 3-tab
Better warrantyMore susceptible to mold and mildew

Best for: Homes in regions prone to severe weather such as heavy rain, wind, or hail.

3. Metal Shingles

new metal shingles
Photo: Vitaliy Halenov / iStock / Getty Images

Metal shingles materials are prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal. These shingles mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials like asphalt or wood shakes but offer better longevity and weather resistance. 

The most popular types of metal shingle materials include aluminum, steel, and copper. Installed in overlapping rows, metal shingles provide a protective barrier against rain, snow, wind, and UV exposure.

ProsCons
Durable in harsh weather conditionsMore expensive upfront cost
Long lifespan lasting between 50–75 yearsComplex installation
Non-combustible and provides excellent fire resistanceNoisier during heavy rain or hailstorms
Require minimal maintenanceProne to denting

Best for: Homeowners in wildfire-prone areas or those concerned about fire safety.

4. Wood Shingles

close up of wooden shingles
Photo: YiBaoTY / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Offering rustic charm in an environmentally friendly package, wood shingles are usually made of pine, spruce, redwood, or cedar—natural materials that are also recyclable. The downside is that they offer the least protection from the elements, making them unsuitable for hot, dry, or wet climates since they are susceptible to termites, rot, and fire (though some varieties have a Class A fire resistance rating). Wood shingles also require more intensive maintenance to mitigate these inherent risks. They do, however, achieve valuable curb appeal at moderate prices.

ProsCons
Resistant to wind, impact, and UV raysMore complicated to install
Eco-friendlyDamage shingles cannot be repaired, only replaced
Nice curb appealVulnerable to pests and rot
Compatible with different home designsHigh-maintenance
Average life span of 20–30 yearsNot fire-resistant

Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners looking for an environmentally-friendly roofing option.

5. Concrete Tile Shingles

close up of concrete shingles
Photo: DariaRen / iStock / Getty Images

Comparable in function to clay tiles, concrete shingles have a long history and provide durable, energy-efficient roofing with resistance to the elements. Like other heavier roofing materials, installing concrete tiles may require you to reinforce your home’s frame. Concrete offers a diverse array of design options, allowing you to opt for shingles in classic, unmistakable gray and colors and styles similar to those of other shingle types.

ProsCons
Wide variety of style optionsVery heavy
Average life span of up to 50 yearsMade of a brittle material that requires professional repair
Relatively inexpensiveColors tend to fade
Minimal maintenanceSusceptible to cosmetic water damage

Best for: Homeowners favoring minimal upkeep on their roof.

6. Slate Shingles

slate tile shingles
Photo: Oleksandr Kotenko / Adobe Stock

Made from stone, slate tile shingles make for attractive, stately, and long-lasting roofing. They are highly weather-resistant and capable of shouldering large amounts of weight. This shingle suits regions with heavy snowfall, like the American Midwest. 

Slate is a sustainable material that is also non-combustible. All of these benefits come at a cost: Supplies and professional installation are expensive, and the total weight of the roof may require reinforcing your home’s framing structure. Consult with a structural engineer to confirm that slate shingles are right for your house.

ProsCons
Extremely durable, offering a life span of 60–150 yearsMore expensive than other types
Attractive, upscale look boosts curb appealMay require a structural engineer’s input
Sustainable materialHeavy roofing not suitable for all home frames

Best for: Homeowners who want a roofing material that will last for generations.

7. Clay Tile Shingles

Visually pleasing clay tile shingles are most commonly associated with Mediterranean and Spanish architecture. They are a solid choice if you are looking for a roof that can withstand the test of time. Plus, they are low maintenance and work in extreme hot and cold weather. You will not have to worry about the shingles rotting or developing mildew, and you can choose from Mission, Spanish, French, or interlocking styles for the exact aesthetic you are looking for.

ProsCons
Durable against extreme weather, wind, and fireRequires specialized skills to install
Provides excellent insulationHigher cost compared to asphalt
Last 100 years or longer with proper maintenanceHeavy and cannot be installed on every roof type

Best for: Homeowners seeking a roofing material with exceptional longevity and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

8. Solar Shingles

square solar roof shingles
Photo: RareStock / Adobe Stock

In recent years, technological advances have allowed homeowners to harness the benefits of solar energy without installing large, bulky panels. Instead, they can capture sunlight on small squares that look like standard shingles. Solar shingles are quite pricey, but you will save in the long run with the energy they add to your home’s grid, especially in sunnier climates. They last 20 to 30 years. 

Solar shingles do require specialized professional installation that may not be available in all areas. Note that some solar shingles are considered hazardous waste, depending on which metals they contain.

ProsCons
Save money by generating your own electricityExpensive to install and maintain
Can add value to the homeSpecialized professional installation
Environmentally-consciousNot ideal for areas with low sunlight

Best for: Homeowners looking to generate renewable energy.

9. Rubber Shingles

grey rubber roof shingles
Photo: WichitS / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Rubber shingles can mimic the appearance of other materials. Manufacturers produce them in thick slabs, often from tires and other recycled products. Rubber shingles provide a hardy barrier against precipitation, wind, and noise. They are durable to impact and last for many years, but they have many of the same drawbacks as other heavy roofing materials. Not every framing structure can support rubber shingles; the material is expensive and requires professional installation, which is not always available.

ProsCons
Made from recycled materialToo heavy for many homes
Durable in the elementsExpensive material

Best for: Homeowners looking for an environmentally-friendly roofing material.

10. Composite Shingles

Composite roof shingles are known for their versatility, durability, and affordability. Often made of a blend of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules, composite shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials like wood shakes or slate. 

Composite shingles are installed in overlapping rows on the roof's surface, providing a protective barrier against rain, wind, and UV exposure

ProsCons
Budget-friendly materialNot a renewable resource
Requires minimal maintenanceMay absorb heat, leading to higher cooling costs in warmer climates
Lightweight and easy to installProne to damage from impact

Best for: Homeowners looking for a cost-effective roofing solution. 

Cost and Life Span of Roof Shingles by Material

When weighing the choices for your roof shingles, the two most important criteria homeowners consider are cost and life span.

Shingle TypeLifespanCost (per square foot)
3-Tab Asphalt15 – 30 years$3.20 – $7.75
Architectural Asphalt25 – 30 years$4.50 – $7
Metal50 – 75 years$4.70 – $40
Wood30 – 80 years$5.50 – $13.50
Concrete30 – 50 years$7 – $19
Slate75 – 200 years$10 – $30
Clay50 – 100 years$5 – $15
Solar25 – 30 years$21 – $25
Rubber15 – 25 years$25 – $40
Composite20 – 30 years$7.50 – $13

How to Figure Out Which Shingle Is Right for Your Roof

There are many factors involved in choosing shingles to match your needs and your home. Some top considerations include:

  • Budget: Since roof replacement costs average $9,000, budget is likely to play a big factor in your choice. Shingles come in a vast range of different prices; while some of the priciest options offer inarguable benefits, they may not fit your most urgent needs. For example, if you do not experience extreme weather where you live, you might not need to opt for the most durable and resistant option, which also comes with a higher price tag. 

  • Style: Different shingle types have vastly different visual styles—and not all of them are right for every home. Consider how your chosen shingle will complement or change the look of your home. 

  • Climate: In snowy and wet climates, high wind and water resistance ratings are crucial, while homes in drier climates most urgently need protection against fire.

  • Environmental Impact: Some shingle materials are made from recyclable materials using more sustainable production processes. Depending on the budget, these eco-friendly benefits can tip one option over another. 

  • Weight: Many high-end shingle varieties are quite heavy, creating a burden that certain framing structures cannot support without reinforcement. Make sure to understand the weight limits of your home’s structure before choosing shingles.

Installing shingles can be a DIY project, but if you are not confident in knowing how to safely install roof shingles, make sure to hire a roofing company near you.

Mizuki Hisaka contributed to this piece.

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Learn more about our contributors
Kate Fann
Written by Kate Fann
Contributing Writer
Kate Fann is a content writer with ten years of online writing experience, taking a specialized focus on strategic SEO.
Kate Fann is a content writer with ten years of online writing experience, taking a specialized focus on strategic SEO.
Ami Feller
Reviewed by Ami Feller
Owner, Roofer Chicks
Ami Feller was born and raised in Marshalltown, Iowa. While attending Iowa State, her brother Scott started a roofing crew during the summers, and Ami went to work for him on the crew, eventually becoming the crew foreman. In 2016, Ami split off on her own and opened Feller Roofing of New Braunfels, which was renamed Roofer Chicks in 2021.
Ami Feller was born and raised in Marshalltown, Iowa. While attending Iowa State, her brother Scott started a roofing crew during the summers, and Ami went to work for him on the crew, eventually becoming the crew foreman. In 2016, Ami split off on her own and opened Feller Roofing of New Braunfels, which was renamed Roofer Chicks in 2021.
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