Whether you’re redoing an old roof or building a new home from the ground up, knowing how to pick out the perfect shingles for your pad is important. The last thing you want to do is spend a fortune on an option that doesn’t work for your home.

But with so many shingle types available, picking the best roofing shingles for your home can seem downright impossible, especially if you’re new to the process.

There are many different factors to consider when choosing the best roofing shingles for your home. But don’t worry, we’re here to help by breaking down your shingle options, including their pros and cons. So, you can rest easy knowing you’ve picked the perfect roofing shingles for your home.

An Ohio Homeowner’s Guide to Choosing the Best Roofing Shingles

Selecting the right shingles can seem stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are the top shingle types to consider, and the pros and cons of each.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are arguably the most common type of roofing shingle. They’re widely used because they’re cheap, lightweight, durable, and come in a variety of colors and styles.

They’re waterproof, fireproof, and can withstand pretty severe weather. If properly cared for, they can last up to 25 years. But they can become loose if you live in a place that experiences sudden temperature fluctuations.

Thankfully, they’re pretty easy to repair or replace, so you can redo your roof should any situation occur.

Wood Shingles

If you’re interested in a more rustic option, wood shingles are your best bet. They’re beautiful, natural-looking, and great for those interested in environmentally friendly options. They also last up to 25 years, although they are susceptible to fire, and prohibited in certain regions depending on fire codes.

Metal Shingles

Made up of aluminum, steel, copper, or alloy, this shingle type is ideal for people looking for a lifelong investment. Metal shingles can survive for up to 75 years, so while they’re pricier than other options, they’re worth the investment.

The biggest drawback of metal shingles is the noise they create’ they can be quite loud during hail and rain. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to replace, however, should they ever be damaged during a storm.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are beloved for their durable design and natural sleek aesthetic. They’re also heat, hail, and moisture-resistant, which makes them great for any weather or climate.

As far as cons go, slate shingles are pretty expensive. They’re also quite heavy, which means they’re not suited for every roof type. In fact, some roofs may not be eligible for this shingle type depending on the structure.

Tips on Choosing the Best Roofing Shingles

As you can see, there are a variety of shingle types, all with their own pros and cons. Here are some key things to keep in mind when deciding between these options.

Choose Your Color Carefully

When choosing between shingles, keep in mind what color would look best with your home. Aim to find an option that complements your home’s siding, whether that’s brick, wood or stone. Thinking about this ahead of time will help you narrow down your options.

Think About Your Home Shape First

Buying expensive shingles for your home may not be that important if your roof is obscured or hard to see. Think about your home’s shape and design, and if your place is prominent enough to justify a more expensive option. Look at photos of other homes for inspiration as well!

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Shingles

Choosing the best roofing shingles for your home isn’t easy. From durability to aesthetic design, there are a ton of things to consider. But by keeping these facts and tips in mind, you can start your shingle search knowing you’re on the right track.

Are you looking to have your roof replaced by an expert? Contact us and one of our roofing consultants will help you find the best roofing option for your home!