When researching roofing options for your home, composition shingles likely keep coming up in your search. I get it with so many choices out there, it’s tough to know what’s actually worth your money.
Composition shingles have become the go to choice for millions of homeowners, and there’s good reason for that popularity. They offer a smart balance of affordability, durability, and style that’s hard to beat.
I’ve spent years in the roofing industry, and I’m here to give you the straight facts about composition shingles. No sales pitch, just honest insights from someone who’s seen it all.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these versatile roofing materials, from their construction to their benefits.
Ready to make an informed decision about your roof? Let’s get started.
What Are Composition Shingles?
These are the most common roofing materials made from multiple layers for durability and protection.
Composition shingles are basically layered roofing materials. Think of them like a sandwich. You’ve got multiple ingredients working together to protect your home.
The base layer is usually fiberglass or organic felt. This gives the shingle its strength.
Then comes the asphalt coating. This is what makes your roof waterproof. Without it, you’d have water dripping into your living room every time it rains.
The top layer is where things get interesting. Manufacturers add ceramic granules or mineral particles. These aren’t just for show. They protect the asphalt from UV rays and give your roof its color.
Most people call them asphalt shingles, but that’s not entirely accurate. Yes, asphalt is a key ingredient. But it’s really the combination of all these materials that makes them work.
Here’s what makes them different from other roofing options:
- They’re flexible enough to handle temperature changes
- They come in tons of colors and styles
- They’re much lighter than slate or tile
- Installation is straightforward for experienced roofers
The whole system works because each layer has a specific job. Remove one layer, and you lose protection.
Types Of Composition Roofing Shingles
Here are the main varieties you’ll find when shopping for composition shingles, each with distinct features and price points.
Asphalt Composition Shingles
These are your basic, no frills option. I see them on older homes all the time.
They’re simple and get the job done. Single layer construction keeps costs down. You won’t find fancy textures or dimensional looks here.
Most last about 15-20 years with proper care. Not bad for the price point.
Laminated (Architectural) Shingles
Now we’re talking about the popular choice. These have multiple layers bonded together.
They look way better than basic asphalt shingles. The extra thickness creates shadows and depth that make your roof look more expensive than it actually is.
Durability jumps up to 25-30 years. Worth the extra cost in my opinion.
Three Tab Composition Shingles
Here’s the budget friendly option that still looks decent.
Each shingle has three tabs cut into it. This creates a uniform pattern across your roof. Very clean, very simple.
They’re lighter than architectural shingles. Installation goes faster, which can save you money on labor.
Luxury Composition Shingles
Think of these as the premium tier. They mimic expensive materials like slate or wood shake.
The thickness is impressive. Some are nearly an inch thick in spots.
Colors and textures are far more realistic than standard options. Your neighbors might not even realize they’re looking at composition shingles.
Synthetic/Composite Blend Shingles
These mix traditional materials with modern technology.
Manufacturers add recycled materials or synthetic fibers. This can boost durability and environmental friendliness.
They’re newer to the market, so long term data is still coming in. But early results look promising.
Why Choose Composition Shingles For Your Roof?
These shingles offer the best combination of affordability, performance, and style for most homeowners.
Cost is the biggest factor for most people. You’re looking at roughly half the price of tile or slate. That’s serious money back in your pocket.
Modern composition shingles handle weather better than you’d expect. I’ve seen 20-year-old roofs still performing well after multiple storms.
Installation is straightforward. Most roofers know how to work with these materials. You won’t struggle to find qualified installers in your area.
Here’s something people don’t think about much:
Weight matters more than you realize. Your house structure can handle composition shingles without extra support. Try putting slate on an older home and you might need structural work first.
Repairs are simple and cheap. Damaged shingles can be replaced individually. With tile or metal roofing, repairs get complicated fast.
Color options keep expanding every year. I see new styles and shades hitting the market regularly.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Composite Shingles?
Every roofing material has trade offs, and composition shingles are no different.
| Pros | Cons |
| 20-30 year lifespan | Less durable than metal/slate |
| Budget friendly cost | Algae/moss growth in humidity |
| Quick installation | Shorter life than premium options |
| Good energy efficiency | Weather damage susceptibility |
| Wide design variety | Regular maintenance needs |
The question isn’t whether composition shingles are perfect. They’re not. The question is whether they’re right for your situation and budget.
Installation Tips For Composition Shingles
Proper installation makes the difference between a roof that lasts decades and one that fails early.
Here are the key tips I share with homeowners:
- Check weather conditions first. Don’t install during rain, high winds, or extreme heat. Shingles can crack in cold weather and become too soft in extreme heat.
- Start with proper underlayment. This waterproof barrier goes directly on your roof deck. Skip this step and you’ll regret it later.
- Use the right nails. Roofing nails should be long enough to penetrate at least 3/4 inch into the deck. Galvanized or stainless steel prevents rust.
- Follow manufacturer spacing. Each shingle needs specific nail placement. Too high or too low and wind can lift them off.
- Maintain straight lines. Chalk lines help keep rows even. Crooked shingles look terrible and can cause water problems.
Conclusion
After covering all the details, composition shingles make sense for most homeowners. Yes, they won’t last as long as metal or slate. And sure, humid climates can cause algae issues.
But here’s what matters most. You get solid performance at a reasonable price. Twenty to thirty years of protection without breaking your budget is hard to beat.
The variety of styles available today means you won’t sacrifice looks for affordability. Installation is straightforward, and repairs are manageable when needed.
I’ve seen expensive roofing materials fail early due to poor installation. I’ve also seen basic composition shingles last for decades with proper care.
The bottom line? Composition shingles give you the best balance of cost, performance, and reliability. For most homes and budgets, that makes them the smart choice.
Your roof protects everything underneath it. Composition shingles do that job well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Composition Shingles The Same As Asphalt Shingles?
Yes, they’re basically the same thing. Composition shingles contain asphalt as the main waterproofing ingredient, along with fiberglass or organic backing and mineral granules on top.
How Much Do Composition Shingles Cost Per Square Foot?
Most composition shingles run between $1 to $4 per square foot for materials only. Installation typically adds another $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on your location and roof complexity.
Can I Install Composition Shingles Over My Old Roof?
Many building codes allow one layer of shingles over existing ones. However, I recommend removing the old layer first for better results and to check the roof deck condition underneath.
Do Composition Shingles Work In All Climates?
They perform well in most climates but have limitations. Hot, sunny areas can shorten their lifespan, while humid regions may see algae growth requiring regular cleaning.
What Warranty Do Composition Shingles Come With?
Most manufacturers offer 20 to 50 year warranties depending on the shingle quality. Keep in mind these are prorated warranties, so coverage decreases over time rather than providing full replacement value.
