5 Popular Shingle Roof Types You Should Know About

Written By Cody Profitt

If you’re planning a new roof or replacing an old one, choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With so many shingle roof types available today, it can feel overwhelming trying to decide which one is best for your home, budget, and style.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common shingle roof types, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What Are Shingle Roofs?

A shingle roof is a roof covering made up of overlapping elements (called shingles), typically laid in rows from the bottom edge of the roof up. Shingles come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, and each type offers different advantages in terms of durability, appearance, and cost.

Popular Shingle Roof Types

1. Asphalt Shingles (Most Common)

Asphalt shingles are the go-to choice for most residential homes in North America due to their affordability and reliability.

Subtypes of Asphalt Shingles:

3-Tab Shingles
- Flat and uniform appearance
- Lightweight and budget-friendly
- Shorter lifespan (15–20 years)
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
- Thicker, layered look for a more dimensional aesthetic
- More durable than 3-tab
- Popular for curb appeal and resale value
Luxury Asphalt Shingles
- Mimic high-end materials like slate or cedar
- Heavier and more durable
- Higher cost, but excellent longevity and aesthetics

Pros: Affordable, easy to install, good fire resistance
Cons: Shorter lifespan compared to premium materials

2. Wood Shingles and Shakes

A natural and rustic roofing option made from cedar, redwood, or pine.

Wood Shingles: Machine-cut for a smooth and uniform appearance
Wood Shakes: Hand-split for a rougher, more textured finish

Pros: Beautiful, eco-friendly, good insulation
Cons: Higher maintenance, not fire-resistant without treatment, susceptible to rot and insects

3. Metal Shingles

Metal roofing isn’t just for panels—metal shingles can mimic slate, tile, or wood.

Pros: Extremely durable, lightweight, fire-resistant, recyclable
Cons: Higher upfront cost, may require specialized installation

4. Slate Shingles

Natural stone roofing that offers unmatched durability and elegance.

Pros: Long lifespan (up to 100 years!), stunning look, fireproof
Cons: Very heavy, expensive, may require structural reinforcement

5. Composite or Synthetic Shingles

Made from a mix of materials like rubber, plastic, and polymer to mimic natural shingle styles (wood, slate, etc.)

Pros: Lightweight, durable, lower maintenance, eco-friendly options available
Cons: Higher initial cost, newer product category (less long-term data)

How to Choose the Right Shingle Roof Type

Choosing the best roof for your home depends on several factors:

Budget: Asphalt is the most budget-friendly. Slate and metal are more expensive but longer-lasting.
Climate: Consider weather resistance—metal and synthetic are great for harsh conditions.
Home Style: Wood and architectural shingles boost curb appeal for rustic or classic homes.
Maintenance: If you want low upkeep, skip wood shakes and consider composite or metal.

Need Help Deciding on a Shingle Roof?

Let the experts at Comanche Roofing guide you through your options. We’ll walk you through each shingle roof type, explain the pros and cons, and help you choose the best one for your needs and budget.

Call us today for a free roof consultation!