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A Homeowner’s Guide to Types Of Roof Shingles and Their Cost

Posted on January 27, 2024

A Homeowner’s Guide to Types Of Roof Shingles and Their Cost

Deciding which roofing shingle to install has become difficult in today’s world. This is mainly because of the wide range of options on the market. With the advent of new technology, roofing shingles that are manufactured today can be specially crafted to fit any type of roof and weather conditions. So, whether you live in an area that gets frequent snow, or somewhere humid with high winds, there is a roofing shingle for every need. 

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the different types of roof shingles, uncovering the diverse options available, and their associated costs. Keep reading till the end to make a well-informed decision for your home or commercial property. 

Please note that the prices listed in this article may not reflect the final cost of your project. Prices are subject to change based on various factors such as local labor rates, material quality, and more. All costs established in this article are rough estimates based on average industry rates.

1. Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt Shingles 
Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles need no introduction. They are one of the most commonly used roofing materials in the country for their affordability, adaptability, and versatility in various architectural styles. 

When properly installed and maintained, asphalt shingles have a lifespan of around 15-25 years, making them a durable and cost-effective choice for homeowners. Their cost depends on the quality and type of shingles you are installing. Asphalt shingles primarily come in three types: 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles, of which the luxury shingles are the most expensive. 

Also read our other blogs related to shingles.:

Best Asphalt Shingles Of 2024 (A Buyer’s Guide)

Best Rated Luxury Asphalt Shingles Of 2024

Manufacturers In The Industry

CertainTeed is North America’s leading asphalt shingle manufacturer, manufacturing shingle lines, including: 

⚫ Landmark®  

⚫ Landmark Pro

⚫ Grand Manor®

⚫ Presidential Shake®

According to Modernize:

Types of Asphalt ShinglesCost Per Sq. Ft
3-Tab Shingles $2
Architectural Shingles$5.50
Luxury Shingles $9.50

Also, Read – 9 Things To Consider Before Replacing Your Roof In Western New York 

2. Metal Roofing Shingles 

If you love the durability of the metal roof but the look of traditional asphalt shingles or clay tiles, you’ll love metal roofing shingles. Metal roofing shingles offer a durable and long-lasting option for homeowners seeking reliable protection and a modern aesthetic for their homes. 

While metal roofing shingles may have a higher initial cost compared to asphalt shingles, they boast exceptional durability and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. 

However, the cost of installing metal roofing shingles depends on the type of metal and the complexity of the project. 

Manufacturers In The Industry

Tamko is one of the popular roofing material manufacturers, mainly known for its asphalt and steel roofing shingles. Its metal roofing shingle lines include 

⚫ MetalWorks® StoneCrest® Slate

⚫ MetalWorks StoneCrest Tile

⚫ MetalWorks AstonWood®

Metal Roofing Shingles TypeCost Per Sq. Ft
Aluminum Shingles $2.20 to $4.05
Copper Shingles$13.54 to $24.69 
Steel Shingles $6 to $12
Stone-Coated Steel Shingles $7 to $13
Metal Roofing Shingles 
metal roofing shingles 

3. Cedar Shake Shingles

Cedar shake shingles are made of cedar, a premium wood commonly found in the Northwest side of the country. Cedar shake shingles have been a popular choice for residential roofs due to their natural beauty and ability to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home while providing durability and weather resistance. 

When it comes to cedar shake installation, it’s essential to ensure that the roofing professionals have experience with this material. Proper installation is critical for the longevity and performance of cedar shake shingles.

Keep in mind that, unlike other shingle options, cedar shake shingles tend to need frequent maintenance to ensure that they last a long time and continue to be durable.

Manufacturers In The Industry

Twin Creeks Log Home Supply is among the top cedar shake and shingle roof providers. Offering customization options for their roofing requirements and demands, the company is helping homeowners achieve the desired look and durability they want. They offer bundles of hand-split cedar shakes for any roof. 

The Cost of Cedar Shakes

On average, a cedar shake roof costs between $6 to $9.50 per square foot

Cedar Shake Shingles
Cost of Cedar Shakes $6 to $9.50 per square foot

4. Slate Tiles

When considering the durability of slate tiles as a roofing option, you must weigh their long-term benefits, especially in comparison to other roofing materials like metal.

Slate tiles are renowned for their exceptional durability, often lasting over a century when properly installed and maintained. While the upfront cost of slate tile installation may be higher compared to other roofing materials, the longevity, and minimal maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective choice in the long run. 

Manufacturers In The Industry

Along with sandstone, limestone, and quartzite, American Slate™ is one of the largest providers of natural slate in the U.S. roofing industry. Based in Fullerton, CA, the American Slate has a rich history of providing natural slate tiles to home and building owners for 40 years. 

The Cost Of Slate Tiles 

In terms of cost, slate tiles generally fall within the range of $6.65 to $12.13 per square foot, positioning them as a higher-end roofing option.

Slate Tiles
cost of slate tiles  $6.65 to $12.13 per square foot

5. Rubber Shingles

Rubber shingles are manufactured with recycled products, increasing sustainability and recycling. Moreover, rubber shingles are an alternative option to many expensive roofing options,  offering durability and weather resistance at a more reasonable price. 

Along with that, rubber shingles are also fairly quick and easy to install, which can save you money on labor costs. They also have an impressive lifespan, often lasting 30 to 50 years, making them a durable and long-term roofing solution. 

Manufacturers In The Industry

With the intention of protecting your home and conserving our planet, Euroshield® is a renowned rubber shingle manufacturer in the industry, offering rubber roofing materials that mimic the look of natural shake and slate shingles. These shingle lines include:

⚫ Beaumont Shake

⚫ Ranchlands Shake

⚫ Vermont Slate

⚫ Rundle Slate 

The Cost of Rubber Shingles 

In terms of cost, rubber shingles offer a competitive price, typically falling within the range of $4.25 to $8.25 per square foot, making them a cost-effective option. Moreover, their lightweight nature makes them suitable for a wide range of roof types and structures.

Rubber Shingles
Source: euroshieldroofing.com

6. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles, renowned for their timeless elegance and exceptional durability, are a popular choice for roofing due to their distinctive features and long-lasting performance.

One of the appealing aspects of clay tiles is the wide range of color options available, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic for their roofs. From classic terracotta to modern slate gray, there are choices to suit various architectural styles. 

Manufacturers In The Industry

Ludowici® is a renowned brand in the market, offering clay tiles along with other roofing materials for over 140 years. It offers uniquely crafted and infinitely customizable tiles for your roofing needs. 

The Cost of Clay Tiles 

Clay tile installation can be expensive initially. Their installation cost can range from $8.35 to $15.25 per square foot. 

When it comes to installation, hire experienced professionals who can handle the complexity of the process. Since they can become broken and cracked due to the impact of heavy objects, the proper amount of maintenance, including regular inspections, is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of clay tiles. 

Clay Tiles
clay tiles roof cost $8.35 to $15.25 per square foot

7. Concrete Shingles 

Concrete tiles have a long lifespan, often exceeding 50 years with proper maintenance. They provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. While the installation process for concrete tiles can be labor-intensive due to their weight, their durability, and low maintenance requirements make them a worthwhile investment. 

Additionally, concrete tiles are fire-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a practical choice for homeowners in various climates. When considering roofing options, the enduring beauty and resilience of clay tiles make them an attractive choice. Similarly, concrete tiles offer a range of benefits for homeowners seeking a durable and visually appealing roofing solution.

Manufacturers In The Industry

If you want to install concrete roof tiles, you’ll want to buy them from the top manufacturers on the market. Eagle Roofing Products® is one of those top manufacturers. Their product offerings include: 

⚫ High Barrel Concrete Roof Tile

⚫ Medium Concrete Roof Tile

⚫ Flat Concrete Roof Tile

⚫ Lightweight Concrete Roof Tile

The Cost of Concrete Shingles 

For its durability and weather resistance, the price of concrete shingles is quite reasonable. On average, concrete shingle roof installation can cost you around $3.83 to $6.98 per square foot. 

Concrete Shingles 
cost of concrete shingles $3.83 to $6.98 per square foot

8. Synthetic Shingles

Synthetic shingles are known for their durability and low maintenance, making them a cost-effective option over their lifespan. When compared to other types of shingles, the cost falls higher than regular asphalt shingles but lower than options like wood shakes or metal shingles. Additionally, the installation process for synthetic shingles is relatively straightforward, which can further reduce labor costs.

Manufacturers In The Industry

Brava is one of the top leaders in the industry, manufacturing synthetic roofing products and shingles to make roofing more affordable, sustainable, eco-friendly, and durable. It manufactures synthetic 

⚫ Cedar Shake Shingles

⚫Slate Roofing Tiles

⚫ Spanish Barrel Tile. 

The Cost of Synthetic Shingles 

Factor in the long-term benefits and cost savings when making a decision, as synthetic shingles offer a compelling combination of longevity, cost-effectiveness, and a relatively simple installation process. Their cost can lie somewhere between $4 to $6 per square foot. 

9. Solar Roof Shingles

As a roofing professional with extensive experience, I can attest to the growing interest and demand for solar roof shingles in the residential and commercial industry.

Solar roof shingles, also known as solar photovoltaic (PV) shingles, are a cost-effective roofing option that combines the functionality of traditional roofing materials with the benefits of renewable energy. The solar roof installation process involves placing the solar shingles in the same manner as traditional shingles, allowing for easy integration into the overall design of the roof

The Cost of Solar Roof Shingles

Home and business owners are increasingly opting for solar roof shingles as a sustainable and energy-efficient solution, contributing to both environmental conservation and long-term cost savings. If you want to install solar shingles, you can expect to pay somewhere between $21 to $25 per square foot. 

Solar Roof Shingles
solar roof shingles cost $21 to $25 per square foot

Conclusion

After exploring the various types of roof shingles and their associated costs, it’s clear that there are numerous options to consider when it comes to finding the perfect balance of durability, cost, and aesthetic appeal for your roofing needs.

From traditional asphalt shingles to eco-friendly solar roof shingles, each type offers its own set of advantages and price considerations.

By understanding the factors that influence the cost of roof shingles, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific requirements.

Hire The Best Roofers In Buffalo For Your Roof Installation

If you are considering installing a new roof or replacing your roofing shingles in Buffalo, then hire the skilled and talented team of roofers at Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company. We are one of the leading roofing companies in Western New York with years of combined experience. Be it a new roof installation, a complete roof replacement, or a simple roof leak repair, our team has got you covered. 
Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 and consult a roofing professional for your roofing needs.