Shingles are often homeowners’ first choice when it comes to selecting a material for their new roof. When we say roof shingles, we generally refer to asphalt shingles, however, there are many other shingle options. Each has different aesthetics and price points.
Since there are various types of shingles, it’s important to understand what they are made of. Knowing the materials that comprise roof shingles can help you make smarter decisions for your home.
In this blog post, we will talk about different types of roofing shingles and what they are made of. We start with the most popular roofing option: asphalt shingles.
Asphalt Shingles: The Backbone of Modern Roofing
If you’ve driven through any neighborhood in Oklahoma, chances are you’ve seen asphalt shingles on the majority of roofs. They’re the go-to choice for many homeowners, thanks to their low cost, beautiful aesthetic appeal, and decent durability. But what exactly are they made of? Let’s find out.
Types Of Asphalt Shingles
There are three major types of asphalt shingles
- 3-Tab Shingles
- Architectural Shingles
- Luxury Shingles
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
This is the basic line of shingles. They consist of one single layer of material. What makes them stand out (or not stand out) is their flat, uniform look. Think of them as the foundation of asphalt shingles—cost-effective, straightforward, and easy to install.
Architectural Shingles
Step it up a notch, and you’ve got architectural or dimensional shingles. These are made with two layers of material, giving them a thicker, more robust profile. The doesn’t just make them look better—it makes them tougher too.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles are made of two or three layers and can mimic premium materials like slate or wood shakes. They are the most expensive asphalt shingle option but come with the longest lifespan and the best warranties.
What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of?
Now that we know about the different types of asphalt shingles available, let’s go over what they are made of.
The Base: Fiberglass or Organic Mat
Fiberglass Mat: This is the more modern option. Fiberglass mats are lightweight yet incredibly strong, making them a favorite in the industry. They resist fire and water well, which is a huge plus for homeowners. Plus, they allow for thinner shingles without sacrificing durability.
Organic Mat: While less common today, organic mats were once the standard. These mats are made of cellulose fibers (like recycled paper or wood pulp) and are heavier and thicker. However, they tend to absorb water and can degrade faster than fiberglass, which is why they’re less popular now.
Over the base layer goes asphalt.
The Asphalt Coating
Here’s what gives these shingles their name: asphalt. A thick layer of asphalt is applied to the base (whether fiberglass or organic). In 3-tab shingles, as we already covered, there is one layer of asphalt. On the other hand, architectural and luxury shingles have multiple layers.
The asphalt is often mixed and modified with stabilizers like limestone or other minerals to enhance its capability.
Granules: The Top Layer
Granules form the visible layer of asphalt shingles. These aren’t just for looks (though they do come in a variety of colors to match your style). These tiny, crushed mineral particles play a huge role in the shingle’s performance:
- UV Protection: The granules act as a shield, protecting the asphalt layer from the sun’s harmful rays. Without them, the shingles would crack and warp over time.
- Weather Resistance: They add an extra layer of toughness, helping the shingle resist hail, rain, and even fire.
- Aesthetic Appeal: From earthy tones to bold colors, granules give shingles their character. Whether you want your roof to blend in or stand out, there’s a granule style for that.
Sealants
Last but not least, asphalt shingles are finished with adhesive sealants. These sealants help the shingles stick to one another and to the roof itself. This creates a barrier against wind uplift and helps prevent leaks. On particularly windy days, this is what keeps your shingles from flying off.
So, to sum up what are asphalt shingles made of:
- Fiberglass base mat
- Asphalt
- Granule Coating
- Sealant
Other Types of Shingles and Their Compositions
While asphalt shingles dominate the market, they’re not the only option. Here’s a look at other types of shingles and what they’re made of:
Metal Shingles
The material that is the most popular amongst Oklahoma homeowners after asphalt shingles is metal. Metal shingles are most often made from aluminum, steel, or copper. Some materials, like galvanized steel, are coated with zinc to resist corrosion.
They can mimic the look of wood or slate while offering superior durability and energy efficiency. All of these metals are lightweight and last for more than 50 years. Copper metal shingles, being the most durable material, can last for more than 100 years too.
Metal roofs are a favorite in areas like Oklahoma that are prone to extreme weather. Plus, they’re recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
These shingles are made from, as you probably guessed, wood. But there are different types of wood and choosing the right one is what makes your shingle durable.
The most popular types of trees used for natural wood shingles are:
- Cedar
- Redwood
- Pine
The big difference between shingles and shakes? Shakes are thicker and hand-split, giving them a rougher, more rugged look. Shingles, on the other hand, are sawn into thin, smooth pieces, creating a natural, rustic appearance. While they’re undeniably beautiful, wood shingles require regular maintenance to prevent rot, pests, and fire damage.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are made from natural stone, making them one of the most durable and premium roofing options available. These shingles are cut from slate rock and offer unmatched longevity (we’re talking 100+ years if maintained properly). They’re also heavy, expensive, and require expert installation. If budget isn’t an issue, slate shingles are the ultimate combination of elegance and resilience.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles are made by baking molded clay, while concrete tiles use a mix of sand, cement, and water. Both are known for their durability, fire resistance, and Mediterranean-inspired look. They’re heavy, so your roof needs to be structurally sound to handle them, but their lifespan and aesthetic appeal make them worth considering.
Composite Shingles
Over the years, manufacturers have come up with innovative roofing alternatives that are not only durable but less expensive, too. Composite shingles are a mix of materials like fiberglass, recycled plastics, and asphalt. They’re designed to mimic higher-end materials like slate or wood at a fraction of the cost. Composite shingles are lightweight, low-maintenance, and long-lasting, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.
How To Choose The Right Shingle for Your Roof?
So now that you know what roof shingles are made of, how do you choose the right one? It boils down to your budget, the climate in your area, and the style you’re after. Asphalt shingles are a safe bet for most people, offering a balance of affordability and performance. But if you’re looking for something unique, wood, metal, or slate might be more your style.
No matter what you choose, understanding the materials that make up your shingles will help you make a decision that’s best for your home—and that’s always a win.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, roof shingles are more than just a protective layer—they’re an investment in your home’s future. If you are looking to install asphalt shingles or any other roofing material on our list, look no further than the team of A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing.
With years of experience and expertise, we are dedicated to providing the best roofing services in Oklahoma. We have the necessary licenses and work with the best shingle manufacturers. Give us a call today!
If you’re ready to explore your roofing options further, reach out to our professionals at (918) 402-7167.
