When it comes to selecting the best roof shingles for your home, you’re not just choosing a material to shelter your space—you’re making a decision that impacts the:
- Beauty
- Durability
- Resale value of your home
At Young Construction, we understand how important it is to make an informed choice when it comes to your roof. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to help homeowners like you break down the best roof shingles by both style and brand. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear picture of what to choose to protect your home and add to its curb appeal.
Why Do Roof Shingles Matter?
Roof shingles are one of the most important components of your home’s structure. They protect your roof from the elements, add to the architectural appeal of your house, and can even help improve energy efficiency. However, not all shingles are created equal—different materials, styles, and brands cater to varying needs and preferences. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to explore your options to find the perfect fit for your home.
What to Consider Before Choosing Roof Shingles
Before we jump into the best shingles by style and brand, it’s worth noting a few important factors to consider when making your decision:
- Climate: Your local weather conditions should greatly influence your choice. Consider factors like heavy rains, snow, hail, or extreme heat.
- Durability: Look for shingles with long-lasting materials, especially if you plan to stay in your home for many years.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Picking a style and color that complements your home’s aesthetic can increase its curb appeal.
- Budget: Roof shingles come in a variety of prices, so it’s important to select an option that meets your financial plan.
- Installation and Warranty: Always choose a product with a trusted manufacturer warranty and ensure you work with experienced roofing professionals like Young Construction to get the job done right.
6 Best Roof Shingles by Style
Roof shingles come in a range of materials and styles, each offering unique advantages. Below, we break down some of the most popular options to help you decide which might be ideal for your home.
1. Architectural Shingles
Also known as dimensional shingles, architectural shingles mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate or wood but are made of asphalt. They are layered to create a multi-dimensional look.
Why They’re Great:
- Highly durable and wind-resistant
- Come in various textures and designs to match different home exteriors
- Long lifespan, with many products lasting 30 years or more
Who It’s For: Homeowners seeking a sturdy yet stylish option that offers great value for the price.
Top Example: CertainTeed’s Landmark architectural shingles are a favorite due to their weather resistance and elegant design options.
2. 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
These are traditional asphalt shingles that are lightweight and uniform in appearance.
Why They’re Great:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Easy to install
Who It’s For: Homeowners looking for a cost-effective solution—perhaps for rental properties or a quick roof replacement.
Top Example: GAF’s Marquis WeatherMax is a reliable pick in this category known for its performance and sleek appearance.
3. Luxury Shingles
These premium shingles recreate the look of luxury materials like slate and wood shake without the maintenance or expense of the real thing.
Why They’re Great:
- High-end style and elegance
- Superior strength and durability
- Often available in rich, sophisticated color palettes
Who It’s For: Homeowners who want to invest in a visually stunning roof that also offers long-lasting peace of mind.
Top Example: CertainTeed’s Grand Manor shingles are a standout for emulating the beauty of slate.
4. Metal Shingles
Metal roofing in shingle form offers a sleek, modern appearance while boasting impressive durability.
Why They’re Great:
- Highly resistant to extreme weather conditions
- Offers energy efficiency as they reflect heat rather than absorbing it
- Long lifespan (up to 50 years in some cases!)
Who It’s For: Homeowners in areas prone to storms or extreme temperatures, or those looking for a contemporary appearance.
Top Example: Classic Metal Roofing System’s Oxford Shingle provides a polished and highly durable option.
5. Wood Shakes and Shingles
Made from cedar, redwood, or pine, these shingles offer a rustic and natural aesthetic.
Why They’re Great:
- Beautiful, organic appearance
- Excellent insulation properties
Who It’s For: Those looking to enhance the traditional, cabin-like charm of their home.
Top Example: Cedar Impressions’ products are known for their beautiful, authentic wood shake appearance.
6. Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are made from natural stone, giving them an elegant and classic look.
Why They’re Great:
- Extremely durable and fire-resistant
- Can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance
Who It’s For: Homeowners aiming for a timeless and luxurious aesthetic (and able to accommodate the higher cost).
Top Example: Vermont Specialty Slate shingles offer top-tier quality with unmatched beauty.
5 Best Roof Shingles by Brand
Some brands have become household names in the world of roofing. Here are the top brands you should consider when selecting roof shingles:
1. CertainTeed
Why Choose Them: Known for their innovative designs and durable products, CertainTeed offers a vast range of shingle options to suit every style and budget.
Top Pick: Landmark shingles provide excellent weather resistance and are available in a variety of colors and textures.
2. GAF
Why Choose Them: GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, recognized for its dedication to quality and affordability.
Top Pick: Timberline HDZ shingles are a favorite among homeowners, offering an architectural style, algae protection, and strong wind resistance.
3. IKO
Why Choose Them: IKO delivers high-quality roofing materials at a competitive price.
Top Pick: Cambridge architectural shingles are designed for durability and include a Class A fire rating.
4. Owens Corning
Why Choose Them: Owens Corning combines performance with affordability, making it a go-to option for many homeowners.
Top Pick: Duration shingles with SureNail technology provide an excellent seal to prevent wind damage.
5. Malarkey Roofing Products
Why Choose Them: Specializes in eco-friendly roofing materials made with sustainable processes while maintaining high standards of durability.
Top Pick: Malarkey Legacy asphalt shingles, known for modified rubberized asphalt, offer superior impact resistance.
Why Choose Young Construction for Your Roofing Needs
Selecting the best roof shingles is just the first step—it’s equally important to ensure they’re installed correctly and efficiently. At Young Construction, we take pride in delivering reliable and professional roofing services.
But why trust us?
- We’re licensed, certified, and experienced in working with all the major roofing brands.
- We ensure your roof is built to last by adhering to the highest standards of installation.
- Our friendly team communicates with you throughout the process to ensure your satisfaction.
Whether you’re upgrading your roof, repairing storm damage, or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact Us Today for a Consultation!
We believe every homeowner deserves a roof that offers long-lasting performance while boosting the beauty and value of their home. If you’re ready to pick the best roof shingles or still have questions, get in touch with us for a consultation.
Visit our contact page to request a free estimate! We’re excited to help you build the roof of your dreams!
