Roofing shingles come in many different styles and materials and can vary greatly – particularly in terms of price. People choose shingles for their homes based on a number of factors, including budget, climate and architectural style. While the shingle you choose is ultimately a personal choice – along with recommendations from your Nashville roofer – we thought we’d make it a little easier to understand the different options available by going through each one individually. The options, from least to most expensive are as follows.

Asphalt – This type of shingle is the most affordable type, and therefore one of the most common ones. Asphalt shingles are durable, easy to maintain and can be used in just about any climate. They come in many different color choices; however, they don’t offer much choice in terms of textures. Architectural shingles are basically asphalt shingles that are laminated to provide more color and texture options.

Synthetic – A slight step up from asphalt shingles, synthetic shingles are designed to capture the look of other, pricier roofing materials such as tile, slate and wood. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors and are generally suited for use in any climate.

Metal – This type of shingle is often chosen for its incredible durability. Metal shingles are resistant to moisture, fire and fungal growth. They are also fairly easy to maintain. Of course, these benefits come at a higher cost than traditional asphalt or synthetic options.

Wood – Wood shingles are typically chosen for higher end projects, and their cost is reflective of this. Not surprisingly, shingles made of wood tend to be more susceptible to things like insect damage and rot, and have a generally poor fire rating. Still, some people insist that wood shingles are the only way to go. If you’re leaning toward this, make sure your Nashville roofing professional uses shingles that are properly treated, as advised by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

Slate – People typically choose slate for its elegant appearance. It’s also very easy to maintain, is durable and can hold up well in just about any kind of weather. The downside to slate shingles, aside from high cost, is that they are very heavy. If you choose this type of shingle for a new roof, chances are your roofing contractor will have to reinforce your trusses to be able to handle the additional weight.

Ultimately, the type of shingle you choose for your home will be a personal decision, based on your own list of needs, preferences and requirements. While most people tend to go with asphalt shingles, it’s always good to explore all of your options before making a final decision. Discuss your project with an experienced local roofing provider so you can make the most informed decision possible.