Roofing shingles are the most common form of roofing material. Shingles are made from various materials and have pros and cons for each type. They’re the number one choice for new roof installations, but they come in many different materials. Read through the following sections to learn about different shingles, and how roofing materials are made.

Asphalt/Fiberglass Composition

More than 75% of single-family homes in the U.S. use asphalt composition shingles for their roofing. However, other kinds of shingles are taking over due to the advantages other shingles offer (like a fiberglass base), and the limited life span of asphalt. Fiberglass-based shingles are lighter, more resistant to tearing, and offer more fire resistance than do the original asphalt shingles.

There are different grades of composition shingles that vary in their ability to withstand wind. The less expensive grades provide protection from 60 to 70 mph winds, and the most expensive provide protection for up to 130 mph. These grades vary from offering 15-year warranties to 30 and possibly 50-year warranties.

Concrete and Clay

Concrete and clay combinations can be obtained which go on like shingles and appear to be shingles but are also called tiles. The combinations include:

• Traditional clay tiles
• Concrete tiles in a lightweight blend
• Fiber cement tiles made of wood, clay, and concrete, all blended

All of the above 3 kinds of tiles offer service of above 50 years, in addition to resisting fire and insects. They are available in a variety of colors, styles, and textures, though not to the extent that asphalt shingles offer. These variations of tile are more expensive than asphalt, wood, and metal shingles, though they offer greater years of service in most cases. It is of note that the traditional clay roof is very heavy and requires extra strength built into the roof structure. If you end up need extensive roof repairs, many people opt for a whole roof replacement with clay tile for both style and longevity.

Natural Stone Slate/Synthetic Slate

Some structures in Europe with natural slate roofing material have lasted for centuries. Natural slate is rock, after all. The synthetic versions of slate are expected to last from 60 to 80 years. They haven’t been in production long enough to know their life expectancy. We do know that natural slate is heavy, like clay tile, and requires an extra strong roofing structure to hold the weight. Natural slate is also expensive. Synthetic slate is coming down in cost as innovations from research departments are applied.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are the original form of shingles, and still cover many homes. They are valued for their beauty. However, being organic, they can support mold, mildew, and moss growth, and are not fire-resistant. In the right climate, and with good maintenance, a wood shingle roof can last for 50 years. These shingles do cost more per square foot than do asphalt shingles, but last longer.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are available in light-weight steel and aluminum. A roof with this type of shingle can last for up to 100 years, with warranties in the range of 30 to 50 years. Costs of metal per square foot are generally higher than for asphalt shingles, but the roof lasts longer. Different colors are available, and this kind of roof sheds rain and snow better than most other kinds of roofing. Also, metal roofs are fire-resistant.