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What Are Designer Roof Shingles And How Much Do They Cost?

Posted on May 17, 2024

What Are Designer Roof Shingles And How Much Do They Cost?

If you’re in the market for a new roof and want to add a touch of elegance to your home’s exterior, designer roof shingles, also known as designer roofing shingles or designer asphalt shingles, might just be the perfect choice for you. 

These premium shingles not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also offer exceptional durability and longevity, making them a smart investment for homeowners who value both style and functionality.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of designer roof shingles, exploring their unique features, costs, and considerations to help you make an informed decision about your next roofing project

The Elegance of Designer Roof Shingles

Designer roof shingles are a step above traditional asphalt shingles that you generally see on most Buffalo homes. True to their name, designer shingles are made to mimic the appearance of more premium roofing materials like slate, cedar shakes, or even clay tiles. At a fraction of the cost, compared to the advantages they come with, these high-end asphalt shingles offer a wide range of colors, textures, and styles that allow you to achieve a luxurious look. 

Some designer shingles are crafted to replicate the rugged, layered appearance of slate, complete with intricate patterns and color variations that mimic the real thing. Others are designed to emulate the warm, rustic charm of cedar shake, with intricate wood-grain patterns and rich earth tones.

This versatility in color, texture, and style allows homeowners to create a truly unique and personalized look that sets their home apart from others in the neighborhood.

Explore: The Best Rated Luxury Asphalt Shingles Of 2024

How Much Do Designer Roof Shingles Cost? 

Elegant Designer Shingles On a Roof
Elegant Designer Shingles On a Roof

In roofing, the greater the durability and sustainability, the higher the cost tends to be. This is particularly true for designer shingles, which are considered high-end roofing options and are preferred by many homeowners despite their higher upfront costs. However, these costs are often justified due to the shingles’ quality.

The initial price of designer shingles can vary based on the brand, style, and quality, as well as the complexity of your roof’s design and local labor costs. If you opt for designer shingles, expect to pay 20% to 50% more than for standard options, which translates to about $8 to $15 per square foot of roof.

It’s important to remember that the upfront cost is only part of the overall expense. When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of designer shingles, you should also consider their longevity and potential to provide energy savings.

A Comment On Their Durability And Longevity

Designer roofing shingles aren’t only about elegance, style, and elevated curb appeal, their durability and longevity are also essential features that contribute to their essence and popularity. These high-quality shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist fading, cracking, and other forms of damage better than traditional asphalt shingles. 

The enhanced durability of designer shingles can be attributed to several factors, including the use of high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes. Many designer shingles are made with specialized asphalt blends that are more resistant to UV radiation and temperature fluctuations, helping to prevent premature aging and deterioration.

Additionally, designer shingles often feature a thicker and more robust construction, with multiple layers of reinforcement and additional weatherproofing features. This added strength and protection not only helps the shingles withstand the elements better, but also makes them more resistant to impacts from hail, falling branches, or other forms of debris. On top of that, many manufacturers offer warranties of up to 50 years on their designer shingle products, giving you peace of mind, and potentially saving you money in the long run.

How Designer Roof Shingles Differ From Other Types Of Shingles

1. Weather Resistance


a) 3-Tab Shingles: Basic 3-tab shingles are the least weather-resistant option, as they are relatively thin and flat, making them more susceptible to wind uplift and impact damage.

b) Architectural Shingles: While more durable than 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles still fall short of the weather resistance offered by designer shingles. They can withstand moderate weather conditions but may not perform as well in extreme climates or severe storms.

c) Designer Shingles: They are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and extreme temperatures, with better resistance to cracking, fading, and other forms of damage.

2. Thickness 


a) 3-Tab Shingles: 3-Tab shingles are the thinnest and lightest type of asphalt shingle, making them the most susceptible to damage and wear.

b) Architectural Shingles: Architectural shingles are thicker than 3-tab shingles, but still not as substantial as designer shingles.

c) Designer Shingles: Designer shingles are typically thicker and more substantial than other asphalt shingle types, contributing to their enhanced durability and weather resistance. 

4. Price Range 


a) 3-Tab Shingles: 3-Tab shingles are the most affordable option, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners or rental properties.

b) Architectural Shingles: Architectural shingles fall in the mid-range price point, more expensive than 3-tab shingles, but more affordable than designer shingles.

c) Designer Shingles: Designer shingles are the most expensive type of asphalt shingle, with costs ranging 20 to 50% higher than standard architectural shingles.

Also read: How Are Architectural Asphalt Shingles Different From Regular Shingles?

Should You Choose Designer Shingles For Your Home? 

While designer roof shingles offer a luxurious look and enhanced durability, they may not be the right choice for everyone. Here are a few factors to consider before making your final purchase:

Budget: As mentioned earlier, designer shingles can be significantly more expensive than basic asphalt shingles. If you’re on a tight budget, you may need to prioritize affordability over aesthetic value.

Architectural Style: Designer shingles are designed to complement certain architectural styles better than others. If your home has a more modern or contemporary design, the intricate textures and patterns of designer shingles may not be the best fit.

Personal Preference: At the end of the day, the decision to choose designer shingles comes down to personal preference. If you value the premium look and enhanced durability they offer, they may be worth the investment. However, if you’re more focused on functionality and affordability, basic, or even architectural, asphalt shingles may suffice.

Designer Shingles For Your Home
Designer Shingles For Your Home

Who Should You Choose For Designer Roof Shingles Installation?

If you’ve decided to invest in designer shingles, it’s crucial to choose a reputable and experienced roofing contractor for the installation. Designer shingles require proper handling and installation techniques to ensure their longevity and maintain their aesthetic appeal.

Look for a roofing company with a proven track record of working with designer shingles and take the time to read customer reviews and check their credentials. A skilled and experienced contractor will not only ensure a flawless installation but also provide valuable guidance on choosing the right designer shingle for your home.

Contact Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company In Buffalo For Your Roof Replacement 

We hope this blog post made you more aware of the unique combination of luxury, durability, and affordability that designer roof shingles provide. While they may come with a higher price tag than traditional asphalt shingles, their enhanced aesthetic appeal and longevity can make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

If you’re in the Buffalo area and are considering a roof replacement, look no further than Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in shingle installation and can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect style to ensuring a flawless installation.

Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards enhancing the beauty and value of your home with designer roof shingles.