There are three types of asphalt shingles to consider: three-tab asphalt shingles, architectural asphalt shingles, and premium asphalt shingles.

• Three-tab Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common type, classified by their cutouts which make them look like three separate pieces. They’re affordable, lightweight, easy to maintain, energy efficient, and can last up to 20 years.
• Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Laminated with an additional asphalt layer and bonded with asphalt sealant, they have a more defined, structural look and are more durable and waterproof than three-tab asphalt shingles. They’re also energy efficient while notably increasing the value of your home and they can last up to 50 years.
• Premium Asphalt Shingles: As the name suggests, these are luxury versions of asphalt shingle roofing. Created to emulate high-end cedar or slate roofing, they’re still about ten times cheaper.

In addition to these three types, there are also different materials that your shingles could be made of:

• Fiberglass Shingles: Made with a combination of woven fiberglass as the base, asphalt coating, and ceramic granules on top, these materials create a waterproof and UV-protectant shingle while also being extremely lightweight and thin due to its lower amounts of asphalt.
• Organic Mat-based Shingles: This kind of asphalt shingle roofing has a recycled felt paper layer for its base. They’ll be heavier, thicker, and slightly more expensive than fiberglass shingles but they’re also more rugged and flexible. Downsides include being less fire resistant and susceptible to warping.

Call us today for a free consultation with one of our skilled asphalt roofing contractors to help you decide which type of roofing is best for your home.