What are Roofing Shingles? - A Comprehensive Guide

Roofing Shingles are an essential part of the roof. They cover the entire roof and serve as a barrier against water. Unlike shingles, which only cover the top of your roof, Roofing Shingles cover the whole surface and are designed to withstand high amounts of weight.

They also provide an aesthetic finish, preventing rain from reaching your home's interior. As with every building material, choosing the best Roofing Shingles for your home involves certain factors such as durability, cost, maintenance, and appearance.

Here's a comprehensive guide that will tell you everything you need to know about Roofing Shingles to help you make an informed decision.

What are Roofing Shingles?

Roofing shingles are thin, flat pieces of material that are used to cover roofs. They are typically made of asphalt, fiberglass, or slate and are designed to protect the roof from the elements, including wind, rain, snow, and sun.

They are available in various colors and styles and can be used on residential and commercial buildings. In addition to durability and weather protection, choosing the right shingle also comes down to aesthetic preferences.

As with any material, each has unique characteristics that make it suitable for certain applications.

History of Roofing Shingles

The first shingles used on roofs were made from flat pieces of wood, such as cedar. These were cut into thin strips and then nailed down to the roof. By the 17th century, shingles were made from slate and other materials, such as copper and lead.

However, these materials were costly, so wood shingles remained the most popular choice. Then, in the early 19th century, asphalt shingles were developed. Asphalt shingles were less expensive and easier to install than wood and slate and quickly became the most popular choice for roofing.

By the mid-20th century, many different types of asphalt shingles had been developed, including architectural shingles with a three-dimensional effect. Today, asphalt shingles are still the most popular roofing material, and many different types are available.

Metal roofing is also popular, and composite shingles from recycled materials are becoming more common. Solar shingles, which generate electricity, are another relatively new option.

Types of Roofing Shingles

Several types of roofing shingles are available today, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Some of them are:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in the United States. They come in a variety of styles and colors to suit any home. Dimensional and luxury asphalt shingles are multi-layered and replicate the look of natural wood shakes or slate roofing.

These shingles provide a more realistic and elegant alternative to traditional shingles. In addition, asphalt shingles are durable, lasting 20 to 60 years, and require minimal upkeep.

As a result, they are cost-effective and can last for decades with minimal maintenance. There are three main classes of asphalt shingles to choose from strip, dimensional, and luxury. Each has its unique character and appearance, making finding the perfect roofing solution for your home easy.

Wood Shingles and shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are typically made from cedar, redwood, or southern pine. The natural look of wood shingles and shakes makes them popular for homes across North America. Wood shake roofs are thicker and rougher than wood shingles, as they are split following the wood's natural grain.

Cedar shingles are one of the most popular types of wood roofing in North America, but they are expensive to purchase and maintain. Wood shingles cost between $350 to $500 per square foot and can be true shingles or shakes, with shakes offering a more rustic appearance.

In addition, these types of roofing may be a concern in wet climates, as they may mold, split, or rot over time. Therefore, choosing roofing materials that will suit your home and climate needs is essential.

Whether you're looking for an affordable option that will last several decades or an eco-friendly alternative that will reduce energy costs, there is sure to be a type of roofing that fits your needs and budget.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are a type of roofing material that is made from natural slabs of slate. They are commonly used on residential and commercial buildings and are known for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and long life span.

Slate shingles are available in various colors, textures, and shapes to match the look of any building or home. Slate shingles are very energy efficient, and they naturally cool during the summer months and retain heat in the winter months. This makes them an excellent choice for homes in colder climates.

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles are thin, overlapping pieces of wood used to cover a home's exterior or other structures. They are popular for residential and commercial buildings because of their natural beauty and long-lasting durability.

Cedar shingles are available in various colors, textures, and grades to match any home design. They are a great choice for climates that experience extreme weather conditions because they are resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage. They are also low-maintenance and require very little upkeep.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are roofing materials made of thin sheets of metal. They typically cover flat or low-pitched roofs and are available in various styles, including simulated shakes and slates.

Metal shingles are fire-resistant, lightweight, and durable, making them popular with many homeowners. They are available in various colors and finishes, allowing for a customizable look that can complement any home.

In addition, metal shingles can last up to 50 years, making them a great long-term investment.

How much do Roofing Shingles cost?

The cost of roofing shingles varies depending on the type of shingle, the size of the area being covered, and the local cost of materials. Generally, asphalt shingles cost around $2.00 to $4.50 per square foot, while metal shingles can cost up to $14.00 per square foot.

How to choose the best Roofing Shingles?

The choice of roofing shingles can be overwhelming, but there are several factors to consider when making a choice.

Consider the climate

When choosing roofing shingles, it's important to consider your climate. Strong roofing shingles are crucial for protecting your home from extreme weather. Roofing shingles come in various types, including asphalt and composition, and each has unique features and benefits.

For example, asphalt shingles are durable and cost-effective but expensive to replace. On the other hand, architectural shingles offer added depth and protection at a cost that may be more costly than other options.

Look for energy efficiency.

When looking for the best roofing shingles, there are several factors to consider. One important factor to consider is energy efficiency. Shingle manufacturers have been trying to reduce their products' energy consumption over the years, which has resulted in increased energy efficiency.

In addition, when choosing roofing shingles, ensure they are made from strong and durable materials, such as asphalt or cement.

Choose the right material.

When choosing the right type of roofing shingles, it is important to consider several factors. First, asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing in the US.

These materials come in various styles and colors and offer outstanding durability and cost-efficiency. Other types of roofing shingles include dimensional and architectural.

Check the warranty

While designer asphalt shingles come with a 30-year prorated material warranty, upgrading to a 50-year non-prorated warranty when using one manufacturer's roofing components, it is always beneficial to check the terms of the warranty and make sure that you are getting the most out of your investment.

Work with a professional Roofing contractor.

Ask friends, family, and neighbors for references, and do some online research to ensure your chosen contractor is reputable and experienced. Make sure to get estimates from at least three different roofing contractors.

Compare their services, prices, and guarantees before making a decision. Ask each contractor about their experience with the type of roofing shingles you're considering.

Ensure they are up-to-date on the latest products, warranties, and installation techniques.

Roofing Shingles installation process

Prepare the Roof

Before installing new shingles, properly preparing the roof deck is important. This typically involves removing existing roofing materials, such as old shingles or underlayment, and checking the roof deck for any damage or deterioration.

Any necessary repairs should be made now, including replacing damaged or rotten wood. Once the roof deck is in good condition, it should be cleaned and cleared of any debris or protrusions, such as nails or staples, that could interfere with the installation of the new shingles.

Install underlayment

Underlayment is a waterproof barrier installed directly on top of the roof deck. Its purpose is to provide additional protection against water damage and help keep the shingles in place.

Several types of underlayment are available, including felt paper, synthetic underlayment, and rubberized asphalt membrane. The type of underlayment used will depend on the specific roofing project and the climate in the area.

Install starter Shingles

Starter shingles are installed at the eaves and rakes of the roof and are used to help prevent wind uplift and to provide a straight edge for the first course of shingles. Starter shingles are typically installed with a 6-inch overhang and should be nailed down securely.

Install Shingles

The main course can be installed once the underlayment and starter shingles are in place. This involves starting at the eaves and working up to the ridge of the roof, laying each course of shingles in a staggered pattern.

Shingles are typically nailed down with four to six nails, depending on the size and type of shingle. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of shingle installed, as different shingles may have different installation requirements.

Install flashing and vents.

Flashing protects against water damage around roof openings, such as chimneys or vents. It is typically made of metal and is installed around the base of the opening, overlapping the shingles to create a watertight seal.

If necessary, vents are also installed at this time to provide ventilation for the attic space.

Finish the roof

Once all the shingles, flashing, and vents are installed, the roof should be inspected for any loose or missing nails and other areas that need to be addressed. Any necessary repairs should be made at this time. Finally, the roof should be cleaned, and any debris should be removed.

Maintenance Tips for Roofing Shingles

Keep the Roof Clean

To protect the roof, it is important to maintain it. Ensure you get a building permit and check codes before starting the tear-off. This will ensure all relevant regulations are followed, and the safety of workers and nearby properties is respected.

Choose roofing shingles based on factors like price and regional needs. For example, some areas may require a certain type of roofing shingle for fire resistance or durability reasons.

If you notice any of these signs on your roof, it's time to replace them with a new one. Consider coordinating with contractors or working in sections to keep the roof clean and minimize wear and tear.

Inspect the Roof Regularly

To ensure the longevity and efficiency of your roof, inspecting the shingles for signs of wear regularly is crucial. Shingles are designed to be replaceable, so they must be checked for damage regularly.

Reviewing the shingles annually for signs of wear, such as cupping, cracking, or deterioration, is a good way to ensure their performance over time. If you notice buckled or damaged shingles, this could indicate moisture beneath them that could lead to leaks or structural damage.

Additionally, inspecting large sections of loose and falling shingles can help identify areas that require replacement. It's also important to get a building permit before removing the roof and check local codes for specific requirements before beginning work.

Finally, waiting for clear weather after removing the old roof can minimize the time between tear-off and reshingling.

Clean gutters and downspouts

Cleaning gutters and downspouts is crucial for proper roofing maintenance. Old and new shingles can be found in the waste stream, so carefully separate them for disposal.

Clay tile roofs are virtually maintenance-free but require periodic cleaning to stay in good shape. When replacing shingles, coordinate with weather forecasts and work in sections if doing it yourself.

Address moss and algae growth.

Moss and algae can grow on shingles, particularly in damp or shaded areas. Over time, this growth can cause damage to the shingles and even lead to leaks in the roof.

To address this issue, it's important to regularly inspect the roof for signs of moss or algae growth and to have it professionally cleaned if necessary. In addition, several products can help prevent moss and algae growth.

Still, following the manufacturer's instructions and avoiding using harsh chemicals that could damage the shingles is important.

Hire a professional for repairs.

If you notice any damage to the shingles, such as missing or cracked shingles, it's important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the roof.

While it may be tempting to try to repair the roof yourself, it's generally best to hire a professional roofing contractor to ensure the repairs are done correctly and avoid causing additional damage.

In addition, a professional roofer can inspect the roof for any other issues and provide recommendations for maintenance or repairs to help extend the roof's life.

Pros & Cons of Roofing Shingles

Pros

Asphalt roofing shingles are affordable, easy to install, and come in various colors to suit your home's exterior. In addition, shingles are durable and require minimal upkeep.

As a result, they can last up to 20 years with proper care. They are also an ecologically sustainable choice for roofs as they can be recycled and turned into other materials. Asphalt shingles have three main classes: strip, dimensional, and luxury.

Strip-type shingles are the most affordable but only cover a small portion of the roof; dimensional shingles offer more coverage at a cost premium, and luxury shingles feature intricate details that can transform a flat roof into a beautiful one.

Architectural or laminate shingles are the most popular option for American homes due to their versatility and attractive aesthetic.

Cons

The lifespan of asphalt shingles is fairly limited, with roofs typically needing to be replaced every 20-30 years or sooner if there are visible signs of wear and tear. Additionally, they are less energy efficient than other roofing materials.

As a result, they require frequent maintenance and repairs, which can be costly. Different roofing materials can affect the price of a project, but it is also important to consider various other factors when selecting a roofing option.

Bottom Line

If you want to upgrade your home's look while simultaneously making it more energy-efficient and protecting it from weather damage, consider replacing your old roof with a set of Roofing Shingles.

As explained above, Roofing Shingles have been around for centuries and have evolved to become one of the most popular types of shingles for homes worldwide. Undoubtedly, they provide beautiful curb appeal and long-lasting durability, but their installation can be a bit complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to shingle a 1000-square-foot roof?

Installing new shingles on a 1000 sq ft roof typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000. Labor costs can make up 60% or more of the total cost when installing shingles, so be sure to factor that in when budgeting your project.

Designer asphalt shingles can cost up to $8 per square foot for a complex roof, while materials such as composite, wood, clay, or metal shingles can cost several times more.

How long do roof shingles last?

The lifespan of designer shingles varies by location and factors such as weather, manufacturer, and UV rays. However, asphalt shingles generally take less time to install than other types.

Tiled roofs can withstand hurricane-force winds and have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years. Concrete slate tiles cost less than clay tiles. Slate roofs are durable and can last for decades. The lifespan of roof shingles can be affected by moisture and other factors beyond their control.

How long does it take to install a roofing shingle?

The time it takes to install a shingle roof depends on the material, new roof size, height, and pitch. Generally, asphalt three-tab shingles usually last 20-25 years and should be replaced if cracking or deteriorate. Tiled roofs can last 50-100 years and cost $450-$575 per square. Asphalt shingles are:

• The most common roofing choice is due to their ease of installation.
• Lasting up to 50 years.
• Lower cost than other materials like slate and tile.

What color are Roofing Shingles best?

Designer (luxury) shingles are best suited for properties that mimic the look of slate or wood shake roofing with a high curb appeal. They come in luxe options like black, brown, and gray and can be paired with other color accents like trim and siding for a personalized look.

Designer shingles offer a multi-dimensional look that replicates the look of slate or wood shake roofing. They come in luxury varieties like those with more protection, color blends, and sophisticated designs.

Luxury shingles are also larger and heavier than architectural shingles, providing maximum weather performance and heightened roof dimension for enhanced curb appeal.