January 8, 2025
January 29, 2025
Your roof does more than keep the rain out—it's a big part of your home's personality, strength, and value. So, when it's time to get a new one, one of the most important decisions you'll make is picking the right type of roof shingles.
Roofing shingles come in a dizzying variety of choices. You've got the classics like asphalt and slate, plus more modern options like tile, composite, and laminate. It can be a lot to take in if you're new to all this.
That's where we come in! Our roofers in Reno have put together this guide to break down everything you need to know about roofing shingles. By the time we're done, you'll know exactly what type of roof shingles you're looking for and why they're a great fit for your home.
Let's dive in.
There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to shingles. Each type has its benefits, drawbacks, and ideal uses. Here's a closer look at the most common ones:
Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular choice for American homes. They're affordable, easy to install, and versatile.
Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly, quick to install, and available in many styles and colors. However, they have a moderate lifespan (15-30 years) and can wear out faster in extreme climates.
Metal shingles have come a long way from the corrugated tin roofs of the past. These days, they can be designed to resemble asphalt, wood, or tile.
Metal is easy to install and lightweight, which is great if your roofing system cannot support heavier materials. You can choose from aluminum, copper, steel, and more.
The benefits of metal roof shingles are impressive. They are:
Of course, there are some trade-offs. Metal shingles have a higher upfront price tag than wood or traditional asphalt shingles. Also, if not properly insulated, they can be noisy during heavy rain or hailstorms.
Traditionally, tile shingles were made from clay, terracotta, and slate, but modern varieties have expanded their appeal. While more common in Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes, tile roofing can work with almost any home aesthetic.
Tile is synonymous with durability. Some tile roofs can last over 100 years, making them a solid long-term investment. They're also fantastic for keeping homes cool in hot climates and don't need much upkeep once installed.
That said, tile roofing is heavy—most homes will need reinforced roof structures to support it. It's also one of the priciest roofing materials out there.
The idea of putting wood on your roof might sound a little unusual, but plenty of homeowners swear by wood shingles and shakes.
Wood shakes, usually made from white cedar, have a thick, rustic texture. Each piece looks slightly different from the next, making your roof a true one-of-a-kind.
Wood shingles, on the other hand, are flatter and more uniform. They can be made from various tree species, such as cypress, redwood, or treated pine.
Wood roofing materials are eco-friendly, offer excellent insulation, and develop a beautiful, weathered look as they age. However, they are not a low-maintenance option. You'll need to clean the wood regularly and apply preservatives to prevent rot and pests. Moreover, unless the wood shingles or shakes are treated, they're more prone to fire.
Slate roofs are a hallmark of luxury homes, and for good reason. True slate roofing is exactly what it sounds like— sheets of real stone. Since slate naturally cleaves into thin, flat pieces, it's relatively easy to quarry and perfectly suited for roofing.
If you invest in a slate roof, chances are it'll be the last roof you ever need. It's also resistant to fire, mold, and extreme weather.
However, like tile, slate shingles are incredibly heavy and usually require reinforced roof structures. They're also out of reach for most budget-conscious remodels.
If you're ready to make the switch to solar energy, consider replacing your existing roofing materials with solar shingles. Not only do they protect your roof like regular roofing, but they also work as mini solar panels to generate power for your home.
Options like GAF solar shingles:
Homeowners may shy away from Reno solar panels due to the high upfront costs, but there are several state and federal tax credits that can help offset this. To ensure the best results, find a Reno roofing contractor who specializes in solar shingle installations.
Picking the right type of roofing shingles involves finding what works best for your home and budget. Factor in your:
Choose roof shingles that can handle your local weather. Asphalt, tile, metal, and impact-resistant shingles are a great fit for Reno's dry, sunny weather.
Roof shingles come in a wide range of prices. While asphalt shingles are the most affordable, investing in durable options like metal or slate could save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
Your roof should match your home's style. For example, wood shingles look great on rustic homes. Likewise, tile or slate shingles pair well with Mediterranean or historic designs.
Reno's dry climate means some roofing materials, like wood, may need extra care. If you're not up for regular upkeep, it might be better to skip high-maintenance options, even if they look great or seem like a premium choice.
Before you commit, check the building codes and any HOA regulations in your neighborhood. Some areas may have restrictions on certain roofing materials for safety, durability, or appearance.
Here's a quick summary of the different types of roof shingles we've covered:
Once your roofing in Reno, NV, is installed, you'll need proper maintenance to keep it in good shape.
As a rule of thumb, check for cracked, loose, or missing shingles at least twice a year and after major storms. Remember to remove leaves and branches to prevent water pooling and damage.
For specific types of shingles for homes, here's what you need to know:
Your roof is an investment, so take the time to find shingles that fit your budget, climate, and style preferences. Don't be afraid to ask roofing professionals for advice or samples to see how different options look in person.
At Mountain Vista Roof Systems, we take pride in providing high-quality roofing solutions designed to match your home's style and needs. Whether you're upgrading, replacing, or exploring different types of roofing shingles, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today.
