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As a homeowner, choosing the right roof shingles is an important decision. The shingles you pick can completely change your home’s look and offer different levels of protection. But with so many options, how do you know which ones are truly the best?
That’s where we come in. At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we are here with a guide on the top roof shingle choices of 2024, looking at quality, cost, style, and weather resistance.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the standout shingles and their key features so that you can find the perfect match for your home.
Best Types Of Roofing Shingles
In the following sections, we’ll review these exceptional products, detailing their features, durability, and suitability to help you make an informed choice that meets your unique needs.
Asphalt Shingles
When it comes to asphalt shingles, there are three main categories to consider: 3-tab, architectural (also called dimensional), and luxury. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the best option for your home.
1. 3-Tab Shingles
If you’re simply looking for the cheapest roofing material, 3-tab shingles are the one of the most affordable choices. However, they are also the lowest quality— they tear easily in storms and are being phased out of the industry. Contractors don’t usually recommend 3-tab shingles unless you plan to move out of your home in the near future, or cost is your top priority.
A homeowner favorite is the Dura-Seal® AR (Algae Resistant) shingles from Malarkey. It is designed with a tabbed style and is made with their NEX® Rubberized Asphalt for superior flexibility and durability.
2. Architectural Shingles
For homeowners who plan to stay put for a while and want a cost-effective, time-tested roof, architectural (or dimensional) shingles are an excellent option. They are more durable than 3-tab shingles and offer greater aesthetic appeal, making them a popular middle-ground choice.
The Timberline HDZ® shingles from GAF are one of the best selling architectural shingles in the U.S. They feature advanced technologies for wind and algae protection.
3. Luxury Shingles
If you know you’re in your forever home and want to invest in the highest quality shingles, luxury asphalt shingles are the way to go. These premium products are the most customizable, longest-lasting, and visually striking of the asphalt shingle types. They come at a higher price point, but the added durability and curb appeal can make them worth it for some homeowners.
The CertainTeed Grand Manor® line is an example of a top-tier luxury shingle. With a layered composition, a lifetime warranty, and innovative features like StreakFighter® technology, these shingles offer unparalleled quality and performance.
Metal Roof Shingles
Metal roof shingles are stylish, durable, and can last for 75-100 years. They come in various colors and are relatively lightweight. Common metal materials include aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc. Metal roofs have a modern aesthetic and can be cost-effective, though installation is more complex.
EDCO’s metal roofing shingles, including the Infiniti Textured Shake, ArrowLine Shake, and Generations HD lines, deliver the timeless beauty of traditional shingles with the durability of a metal roofing system.
Impact Resistant Shingles
These shingles are designed to withstand hail, falling branches, and other impacts. They often have a Class 4 impact rating, the highest available. Made from rubber, metal, or composites, impact-resistant shingles provide long-term protection, though they cost more upfront.
Tamko Titan XT shingles are popular for their industry-leading hail resistance. Titan XT offers advanced resistance to weathering, wind protection, and a beautiful color lineup. These shingles are Class 3 impact rated and were voted Product of the Year in a survey of consumers by Kantar.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles integrate photovoltaic cells directly into the roofing material, allowing them to generate renewable electricity. This modern roofing option reduces energy bills, but comes at a higher upfront cost. Solar shingles typically have a 25-30 year lifespan.
A Tesla Solar Roof is made of glass solar tiles and steel tiles. The glass solar tiles harness energy from the sun, and the steel tiles add durability and weather resistance to your home. A Tesla Solar Roof comes with a 25-year warranty and 24/7 energy outage assistance, offering homeowners peace of mind.
Tile Roof Shingles
Tile roofing systems, including clay and concrete varieties, offer exceptional durability and longevity of 50-100 years. Tile shingles are fire, insect, and rot-resistant. However, they are among the heaviest roofing materials, requiring a sturdy roof structure. Tile roofs have a distinctive, elegant appearance well-suited for Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes.
Ludowici is one of the top roofing manufacturers in the U.S., offering over 40 terra cotta tile styles. Manufactured in Ohio from locally sourced materials, their roof tiles are completely customizable to your individual needs and come with a 75-year material warranty.
Wood shingles, made from split or sawn wooden boards, provide a classic, rustic look. Depending on the wood type and climate, they can last 15-50 years. To preserve their weather resistance, wood shingles require regular maintenance, like sealing and painting.
More and more homeowners are choosing Certi-Sawn red cedar shingles by Watkins Sawmills. These shingles are made with western red cedar, which is a more durable option compared to other types of wood. They’re sawn on both sides of the shingle for a seamless, uniform finish.
Similar to wood shingles, wood shakes have a more textured, handcrafted appearance. Typically made from cedar, wood shakes are durable for 30-40 years with proper care. They offer an attractive, natural look but can be more expensive than other roofing options.
Forest Products Supply Co. offers beautiful, hand-split cedar shakes that mimic the texture caused by an ax or mallet. These natural shingles are extremely durable and can increase the curb appeal of your home.
Rubber roofing shingles provide a cost-effective alternative to more premium roofing types. Made from recycled tires and other materials, they mimic the look of traditional asphalt shingles while offering high durability, low maintenance needs, and energy efficiency. Rubber shingles typically last 40-50 years.
Euroshield is one of North America’s premier rubber roofing shingle manufacturers, with rubber shingles designed to offer ultimate protection and sustainability. With unmatched Class 4 impact resistance and superior wind performance, Euroshield offers game-changing protection. The increased amount of carbon black materials in each shingle also helps absorb UV rays.
Synthetic shingles are an excellent choice for an attractive, eco-friendly roofing option. Made from advanced plastic polymers, they can replicate the look of natural materials like slate, tile, or wood at a lower cost. They are lightweight, impact-resistant, and long-lasting, typically lasting 30-50 years.
F-Wave’s Revia® Synthetic Roofing Shingles are far from your average shingles. Engineered from premium materials, they bring elegance and durability to your home. With no granules or asphalt, Revia shingles offer unparalleled performance to match their beautiful appearance.
Who Makes The Best Roofing Shingles?
When it comes to roof shingles, there is no definitive “best” brand. Each major manufacturer—including industry leaders like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and Malarkey—has its own diverse product lines, regional availability, pricing, and customer service experiences.
In fact, you’re more likely to find strong opinions on the worst shingle brands than the best. Roofers can have vastly different experiences with the same brand, with some swearing never to use a particular manufacturer again. The reality is that the best choice often comes down to factors like the specific shingle style, your local climate, and the expertise of your roofing contractor.
The key is to research multiple reputable brands, get quotes from several local contractors, and choose the option that best fits your home, budget, and performance needs. There is no one-size-fits-all best shingle – it’s about finding the right fit for your unique situation.
How To Pick The Perfect Roofing Shingles
Choosing the right roof shingles is important for your home’s look and protection. Consider these key factors:
Materials
The shingle material, such as asphalt, metal, solar, slate, and wood, impacts price and durability. Asphalt is affordable, but materials like metal may last longer in severe weather. Think about your local climate as you decide.
Color
Shingle color greatly affects curb appeal. Pick a shade that complements your siding and home exterior accessories. Darker, neutral tones often work well with light siding. If you want a specific roof color, you may need to update your home’s exterior paint. It’s also a good idea to check with your HOA on approved options.
Style
Shingle style also impacts your home’s appearance. Asphalt comes in three styles: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury, whereas synthetic shingles can mimic the look of wood or slate. While you want your home to stand out, the style should fit your neighborhood.
Sustainability
For energy efficiency, consider options like solar shingles that can lower bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Invest In Quality Roofing For Long-Term Value
If you plan on staying in your home for years to come, investing in high-quality roof shingles is worthwhile. McClellands Contracting and Roofing is a seasoned roofing company in Pittsburgh, PA, specializing in all roofing types, including flat, metal, and shingle roofs. Our experienced team can guide you through the best roofing options for your home and budget.
Call (412) 353-5660 today to discuss your roofing needs with our experts.
