Shingles are an essential part of any roof, that helps protect your home from the elements. There are several different kinds on the market, making it difficult to choose which is best for your home.  

In this blog post, we’ll break down the different types of shingles and their properties. 

Types of Roof Shingles 

There are six common types of roof shingles, and each type has its own unique properties that make them more suitable for certain environments than others. 

1. Asphalt Shingles  

Asphalt shingles are made from a mixture of… 

•  Asphalt 
• Granules 
• Fiberglass 
• Sealants 
• release film 

They can be made into many different shapes and textures. These shingles are relatively cheap and lightweight and are also waterproof and fireproof. However, they are very susceptible to temperature changes and have a lifespan of only up to 30 years. These shingles are best for environments with fairly consistent temperatures.    

2. Wood Shingles 

Wood shingles are cut from cedar, spruce, or pine trees. This is one of the most eco-friendly roofing shingles around. Unfortunately, since they are made of wood, they are more vulnerable to the following: 

• Fire 
• Termites 
• Hail 
• Rot 

Additionally, because it is a natural product, it is more expensive. The lifespan is fair, being around 25 years, but because it is so susceptible to environmental conditions, they don’t last as long.    

3. Metal Shingles 

These shingles are made from aluminum, steel, copper, and alloy that have been stamped into shapes. These shingles are more expensive, however, they are the lightest roofing shingle on the market and they have an extremely long lifespan, lasting up to 75 years.  

These shingles are resistant to… 

• Water 
• Rot 
• Fire 
• Hail 

They are efficient at cooling a home because of their ability to reflect the sun rather than retain it. However, this roofing material is quite loud in the rain and wind.    

4. Slate Shingles 

These shingles have the longest lifespan, up to 100 years. They have a very low leak risk and are heat, hail, fire, and water resistant. They are heavy and require extra structural support and they are expensive due to their weight and durability.   

5. Clay Shingles 

Coming in a variety of colors and shapes these shingles are fantastic for Spanish-style homes. They are fire resistant, will not fade over time, and are energy efficient. However, they are on the heavier side and can make installation more difficult. The lifespan is around 50 years, which is quite long!  

6. Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made to replicate natural materials. These shingles are very expensive, and made of the following substances:  

• Polymer 
• Rubber 
• Plastic 

They are very durable and retain their color over time. With a lifespan of over 50 years, this type is perfect for someone wanting a natural look with a longer life.    

Whatever type of roofing you choose, it’s important to regularly clean dirt, grime, and debris out of your gutters and off of your roof to prolong its lifespan. 

Need a Cleaning Solution for Your Roof? 

Tidal Washers offers commercial-grade cleaning solutions for a variety of cleaning tasks. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our eco-friendly solutions!