Composition Shingle Roofing: Benefits, Types, and Costs Explained

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Monochrome image of neatly stacked clay roof tiles in a construction setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Monochrome image of neatly stacked clay roof tiles in a construction setting.

Composition shingle roofing is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and affordability. Composition shingles are made from a combination of asphalt, fiberglass, and minerals.

They can last for up to 30 years, depending on the quality and installation. This lifespan is impressive, considering the shingles are relatively inexpensive.

The most common types of composition shingles are three-tab and architectural shingles. Three-tab shingles are the least expensive option, while architectural shingles offer a more premium look and feel.

In terms of cost, composition shingle roofing is generally more affordable than other types of roofing materials, such as metal or slate.

What Is Composition Shingle Roofing?

Composition shingle roofing is a type of roofing system that's widely used due to its durability and affordability.

Composition shingles are made from a combination of materials, including asphalt, fiberglass, and minerals, which are mixed together to create a strong and water-resistant material.

These shingles are designed to last for 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality and installation.

Credit: youtube.com, What are the different types of composite shingles for residential roofing?

They're also relatively lightweight, making them easy to install and transport.

Composition shingles come in a variety of colors and styles to suit different architectural designs and personal preferences.

The cost of composition shingle roofing can vary depending on the size of the roof, location, and quality of the materials used.

Key Facts and Benefits

A composition shingle roof can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the installation process.

Composition shingle roofs are relatively low maintenance, but they do require occasional inspections and repairs to ensure they remain in good condition.

One of the key benefits of composition shingle roofs is their excellent insulation properties, which can help lower your heating and cooling costs and make your home more comfortable throughout the year.

3 Key Facts

A composition roof's lifespan is around 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the conditions it's exposed to.

Workers install roofing on an unfinished building under a bright blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Workers install roofing on an unfinished building under a bright blue sky.

Regular maintenance is essential to extend the lifespan of a composition roof, which includes cleaning debris, inspecting for damaged or missing shingles, and addressing any issues promptly.

The cost of a composition roof varies widely, from $3 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type of shingles, the size of the roof, and the location.

Excellent Insulation Properties

Having a roof with excellent insulation properties can make a big difference in your home's energy efficiency. This can lead to lower heating and cooling costs, and a more comfortable living space throughout the year.

Many of these shingles help with insulation, making your home more energy-efficient. This means lower heating and cooling costs because the roof helps keep indoor temperatures steady.

In fact, some shingles can help reduce energy costs by up to 30% by keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Composition Shingle Roofing Types

Composition shingle roofing comes in three main types: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. Each type offers unique benefits and price points.

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The 3-tab shingle is the most affordable option, costing around $90 per square, but it also has a shorter lifespan, typically lasting 15-20 years.

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are a bit more durable, lasting 25-30 years, and cost around $105 per square. They have a multi-layered design that adds dimension and durability to your roof.

Luxury shingles are the premium choice, costing $180 per square, and offer exceptional durability and stunning aesthetics.

Here's a breakdown of the three main types of composition roofing:

What Are They Made Of?

Composite roof shingles are made from a blend of materials, including recycled rubber and plastic. Some composite shingles even use engineered polymers for added longevity.

These shingles are designed to mimic traditional materials like wood and slate, making them a great option for those who want a realistic look without the high maintenance.

Types of Composition Shingles

Composition shingle roofing offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most basic and affordable type is the 3-tab shingle, which typically lasts around 20-25 years and costs around $90 per square.

Credit: youtube.com, 3 Tab vs Architectural Shingles | What's the Difference?

Three-tab shingles are made of a single layer of asphalt and are cut into strips, making them lightweight and easy to install. However, they can be more prone to blowing off during storms.

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are thicker and more durable, lasting around 25-30 years and costing around $105 per square. They are a more textured option that adds dimension to your roof.

Luxury shingles are the most expensive and durable option, lasting around 30-50 years and costing around $180 per square. They are made to mimic the look of more expensive roofing materials and are ideal for homes with high curb appeal.

Here are the three main types of composition shingles:

Overall, the choice of composition shingle depends on your budget, preferences, and needs.

Newer Technology

Composite shingles are a relatively new technology, which can make homeowners uncertain about investing in them.

This lack of long-term performance data can be a concern, but reputable manufacturers often offer warranties that provide reassurance about the durability of their products.

Resistance to Pests

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Composition shingles are a great choice for homeowners who want a durable and low-maintenance roof. They're less likely to be damaged by pests like termites or woodpeckers compared to traditional wood shingles.

This means fewer maintenance issues and a longer lifespan, as you won’t have to worry about pests harming your roof.

Composition Shingle Roofing Costs

A composition shingle roof replacement typically costs between $8,000 and $20,000 for average sized homes.

You can expect to pay more for luxury shingles, which often cost a couple thousand extra dollars over architectural shingles. Architectural shingle roof replacements usually cost between $9,000 and $14,000.

Three-tab shingles are on the lower end, usually costing between $7,500 and $8,500.

Benefits of a Project Manager for Replacement

A project manager can make all the difference in a successful roof replacement project, as seen in the case of a substantial undertaking like a roof replacement.

A roof replacement is a substantial undertaking, and the key to a successful project often lies in the hands of the project manager. This individual is responsible for overseeing the entire process, from planning to completion.

Credit: youtube.com, What Do Roofing Project Managers Do?

Having a project manager can help ensure that the project stays on track and within budget. A roof replacement can be a complex process, with many moving parts, and a project manager can help keep everything organized.

A key benefit of having a project manager is that they can help identify potential problems before they become major issues. This can save homeowners a significant amount of money and stress in the long run.

Cost Estimate

A composition roof can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $20,000 for an average-sized home.

The cost depends on the type of shingles used, with three-tab shingles being the most affordable option, usually priced between $7,500-$8,500.

Architectural shingle roof replacements tend to be more expensive, costing between $9,000 and $14,000, depending on the complexity of the roof.

Luxury shingles can add a couple of thousand dollars to the cost, making them the most expensive option.

To get a more accurate estimate, it's best to schedule an inspection with a roofing company, as this will give you a personalized quote based on your specific needs.

Composition Shingle Roofing Durability

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Composition shingle roofing is built to last, with some types lasting up to 50 years.

Durability is a key benefit of composition shingles, which can withstand heavy rain, snow, hail, and strong sunlight. They also resist rot, mold, and insects, making them ideal for humid or bug-prone areas.

With proper installation and attic ventilation, composition shingles can get close to their specified lifespans. However, factors like weather conditions and maintenance impact their actual lifespan.

Three-tab shingles, the shortest-lived type, can last between 15 and 20 years. Architectural shingles, on the other hand, can last between 25 and 30 years. Luxury shingles can also last around 30 years, but may exceed this lifespan in the right conditions.

Composite shingle roofs usually last 20 to 50 years, depending on the material composition, weather conditions, maintenance, and quality of installation. This range is a good guideline for homeowners to expect from their composition shingle roof.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is better, asphalt or composition shingles?

Composite shingles are a better choice for durability and low maintenance, while asphalt shingles are a more budget-friendly option. For extreme weather climates, composite shingles are the way to go.

What are asphalt shingles made of?

Asphalt shingles are made of a combination of fiberglass, tar, and asphalt granules on a fiberglass mat. Understanding the composition of asphalt shingles is key to a well-functioning roof system.

What is the composition of a shingle?

A composition shingle is made of a base mat, asphalt, and granules, which are combined to create a durable roofing material. This unique composition makes composition shingles a popular choice for homeowners.

What are the layers of a composition roof?

A composite roof consists of four main layers: rafters, sheathing, underlayment, and composite shingles. These layers work together to provide a durable and weather-tight roofing system.

Brett Cain

Senior Writer

Brett Cain is an experienced blogger with a passion for writing. He has been creating content for over 10 years, and his work has been featured on various platforms. Brett's writing style is concise and engaging, making his articles easy to read and understand.

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