Asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly used residential roofing materials. They’re very easy to install and they’re affordable. Additionally, they can be installed in almost any location and climate since they’re tough and durable.

Technological advancement and innovation have made asphalt shingles more durable and more resistant to harsh weather. Newer brands of shingles are algae-resistant and can resist fire better than previous versions of asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles can be used in homes that have a complicated design.

You can also choose from a wide variety of cool colors that help reflect the sunlight and improve the overall insulation of your home. Asphalt shingles come in three different types and this includes three-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles.

The lifespan of asphalt shingles can last between 20 up to 30 years depending on the material and how you maintain them. Other factors could affect and lessen the lifespan of asphalt shingles and this includes exposure to extreme weather conditions and algae or fungal growth.

However, there are some disadvantages to using asphalt shingles. The most common issues include buckling, cracking, and curling when exposed to inclement weather. They’re easily damaged when installed in freezing temperatures. Despite these drawbacks, asphalt shingles are still a good choice for residential roofing material.

Three-tab shingles are also known as strip shingles. This type of asphalt shingle is made from a single layer. This is also the most affordable type of asphalt shingle.

They’re 12 inches wide, lightweight, and thinner than architectural shingles. Three-tab shingles consist of a single shingle tab and are composed of three separate tabs. They’re coated with asphalt to resist water.

Architectural shingles are also known as dimensional shingles. Architectural shingles are tougher and more durable as compared to three-tab shingles. They are resistant to wind, hail, and fungus growth. However, architectural shingles cost more than three-tab shingles due to its more advanced features.

Architectural shingles also have a better resistance to fire as compared to standard asphalt shingles. They’re also easy to cut and install on any type of roof. Asphalt shingles are available in different colors, shapes, and sizes.

Luxury shingles are heavier as compared to three-tab shingles and architectural shingles. Despite this, they’re resistant to strong winds and hail. Luxury shingles are tougher and more durable, they’re able to keep their shape and color.

Additionally, luxury shingles have a multi-directional texture that mimics the look of traditional slate and cedar shake material. They also come in a wider variety of colors and styles and will complement any home design or style. They’re more inexpensive when compared to cedar shake and slate.

Clay tile is an excellent choice if you would like to improve the overall aesthetics of your home. They’re extremely resistant to fire and harsh weather and they also come in different colors, designs, and styles.

When it comes to durability, clay tile can last for up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Clay tiles don’t rot, unlike asphalt shingles and they’re resistant to salt and frost. However, the drawback of using clay is they’re heavy and expensive.

Slate is another popular residential roofing material. They’re made of natural materials such as clay and volcanic ash. They come in different colors, patterns as well as style.

Slate will make your home aesthetically appealing. Since it does not absorb water and moisture, they’re resistant to fungal growth. However, slate is heavy and you may be required to install additional reinforcements to your roof.

Cedar is another excellent residential roofing material that has a natural appearance. They’re resistant to impact and extreme weather. They also have natural preservatives that resist moisture absorption as well as insects.

Cedar shake does not shrink and it doesn’t change its original form even when exposed to humid conditions. They also have good insulation properties to keep you warm during the winter and cool during the summer.

They’re also environmentally-friendly and fully recyclable. However, just like clay, they’re difficult to install and they’re heavy. You may need additional reinforcements installed on your roof to hold the weight of cedar shakes.

Metal roofs are lightweight and very easy to install. They’re durable and long-lasting when compared to other residential roofing materials. Top-quality metal roofs can last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Metal roofs are energy-efficient, fully recyclable, and environment friendly.