Asphalt shingles remain one of the most common roofing materials in North America due to their amazing combination of three very valuable features: reasonable price, resistance to corrosion, and simplicity of laying. But not many know that there is more than one type of asphalt shingle. Understanding the different types of asphalt shingles available will help you choose the right one to meet the needs and beauty of your home.

Know Your Asphalt Shingles

The composite roofing asphalt shingles are made of either a fiberglass or an organic mat base saturated with asphalt. It is then embedded with a layer of mineral granules, more often ceramic or stone, for protection and aesthetics.

The Three Main Types of Asphalt Shingles

There are three main categories of asphalt shingles:

• 3-Tab Shingles (Strip Shingles): These are the most basic and inexpensive type of asphalt shingle. They have a very flat appearance and carry a rectangular shape that can represent individual slate tiles. This 3-tab variety is good for budget-conscious homeowners, though their lifespan might not be as good as other options.
• Dimensional Shingles: These shingles are thicker and heavier when compared to 3-tab shingles, which, in fact, makes them look even more dimensional. They come in a number of shapes and textures and are almost indistinguishable in their resemblance to those natural materials, including such things as wood shakes and even slate. Architectural shingles remain a very popular choice for property owners today because they can combine a good balance between affordability and attractive looks, mostly with a longer lifetime compared to 3-tab shingles.
• High-end Shingles: These are the most premium line of asphalt shingles, offering the thickest profile, the widest range of designs available, and the longest lifespan. The majority of Luxury Shingles are made to mimic exactly the appearance of highly expensive roofing materials like slate or cedar shakes. Of course, they are the most expensive among the three classes, but this class is very suitable for those people who want a really extraordinary look and longevity from their roof.

How to Choose the Perfect Asphalt Shingle for Your House

With so many various asphalt shingle styles for your home, here are a few factors you should consider for selection: Budget: 3-tab shingles are the cheapest, while the cost of luxury shingles will be high. Style: The architectural style of your home, with the aesthetic effect you wish to achieve. 3-tab shingles possess a very basic look, while architectural and luxury shingles offer more design options.

Weather to consider is your local weather. Some types of shingles do better in heavy snowfall, whereas others handle high winds.

Longevity: Luxury and architectural shingles can last longer than 3-tab shingles

Other Than Asphalt Roof Shingles: Concrete Roof Shingles

Though they aren’t technically asphalt shingles, a note needs to be said about concrete roof shingles. These are phenomenally durable and long-lived outliving even the luxury asphalt shingles. But they are also much heavier and much more expensive than asphalt as well.

How to Hire a Roofing Professional

The key to an asphalt shingle selection is how to find the right type of shingle for your house. It would be very important to consult a qualified roofing professional, such as Clean Roofing. They will look at exactly what you need, take a closer look at your roof, and suggest the kind of shingle that best fits your budget, style, and weather.

Equally, asphalt shingles have become versatile and an affordable roofing material that suits most homeowners. Knowing the various types of asphalt shingles will give you insight into what would best suit your house, in both appearance and functionality. Clean Roofing has years of experience working with most kinds of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles. Give them a call today to discuss your roofing replacement project and find the perfect shingle for your home.