Top 5 Best Architectural Shingles Brands: 2024 Guide

When it comes to roofing, choosing the best architectural shingles is crucial for aesthetics and durability. Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, offer superior performance and visual appeal compared to traditional three-tab shingles. The best architectural roof shingles provide excellent protection and can increase a home’s resale value by up to 5%. 

This guide will review the best architectural shingles in 2024, focusing on the top five brands known for their quality and reliability. Understanding your options enables you to make an informed decision, ensuring your roof is beautiful and resilient. So, without any delay, let’s get right into it!

Exploring Different Types of Architectural Roof Shingles

When selecting the best architectural shingles for your home, it’s essential to understand the roof shingles types for Texas. Each type offers unique benefits, and knowing these can help you make an informed decision. Below, we discuss the most popular types of shingles, focusing on why architectural shingles stand out.

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States, covering about 75% of residential roofs. They are favored for their affordability and ease of installation. Within this category, architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, are a premium choice.

• Three-Tab Shingles: Traditional and straightforward, three-tab shingles are a cost-effective option but lack architectural shingles’ durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Architectural Asphalt Shingles: These are thicker, more durable, and offer better wind resistance. Known as the best architectural asphalt shingles, they come in various styles and colors, providing a more attractive and layered look to the roof.

2. Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are often chosen for their natural appearance and rustic charm. While they offer excellent aesthetics, they require more maintenance and are susceptible to fire damage. According to industry reports, wood shingles account for about 5% of the residential roofing market.

• Wood Shingles: Machine-cut for a uniform look
• Wood Shakes: Hand-split for a more rugged, textured appearance

3. Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are gaining popularity due to their durability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. They can mimic the appearance of other materials, such as wood or slate while providing superior weather resistance. Metal roofing, including metal shingles, makes up about 12% of the market.

• Steel and Aluminum Shingles: Known for their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions
• Copper Shingles: Highly durable and develop a distinctive patina over time

4. Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are among the most durable and aesthetically-pleasing roofing materials. They can last over 100 years, making them a long-term investment. However, they are also the most expensive option, representing around 2% of the market.

• Natural Slate: Offers unparalleled beauty and durability
• Synthetic Slate: Provides a similar look at a lower cost and with less weight

5. Tile Shingles

Tile shingles, typically made from clay or concrete, are popular in regions with hot climates due to their excellent thermal properties. They are highly durable and resistant to fire and rot. Tile roofing accounts for approximately 6% of the market.

• Clay Tiles: Traditional and elegant, often used in Mediterranean-style homes
• Concrete Tiles: More affordable and versatile, offering various styles and colors

Why Choose Architectural Shingles?

Among the various options, homeowners often consider the best architectural roofing shingles for several reasons:

• Durability: Architectural shingles are thicker and more robust than traditional three-tab shingles, providing enhanced protection against wind and weather. Studies show that they can withstand wind speeds up to 120 mph.
• Aesthetic Appeal: They come in various styles and colors, allowing homeowners to achieve a custom look that enhances curb appeal.
• Longevity: Many architectural shingles, including the best 50-year architectural shingles, come with extended warranties, ensuring long-term performance.
• Value for Money: While they are more expensive than basic asphalt shingles, their durability and appearance make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

How to Choose the Perfect Architectural Shingles for Your Home

Choosing the right roof shingles is crucial for your home’s look and protection. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider key factors to select the best architectural shingles. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Material Matters

The material of your shingles significantly impacts their cost and durability. We have covered the best roofing shingle types above, including asphalt, metal, slate, wood shingles, and shakes. In addition to these, there is another option: solar shingles. 

These eco-friendly options help reduce energy bills and carbon footprints and are growing popular among sustainability-conscious homeowners. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar shingles can save homeowners up to 50% on energy costs annually.

2. Color Considerations

When choosing the best-looking architectural shingles, consider shades that complement your siding and exterior accessories. The color of your roof shingles dramatically affects your home’s curb appeal. Darker, neutral tones often pair well with light siding, adding a classic look. 

According to the National Association of Realtors, homes with coordinated exterior colors can increase property value by up to 6%. To avoid compliance issues, it’s also wise to check with your Homeowner’s Association (HOA) for approved color options.

3. Style Selection

The style of your shingles significantly influences your home’s overall appearance. Asphalt shingles come in three main styles:

• 3-Tab Shingles
• Architectural Shingles
• Luxury Shingles

4. Sustainability and Efficiency

For energy efficiency, consider sustainable options like solar shingles, which can lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Solar shingles are an investment that not only pays off in energy savings but also increases the value of your home.

5. Price and Value

Finding the best price on architectural shingles involves balancing cost with quality. Architectural shingles are more expensive than traditional 3-tab shingles. However, their enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal offer better long-term value. The initial investment in high-quality shingles can save you money on repairs and replacements down the line. HomeAdvisor says the average cost to install architectural shingles ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on the roof size and materials used.

The Role of a Reliable Roofing Company

Selecting the best roofing company in Texas to install your shingles is just as important as choosing the shingles themselves. A reputable company ensures proper installation, maximizing the lifespan and performance of your roof. According to a survey by the Better Business Bureau, working with a highly rated roofing company can increase your satisfaction with the final result by 40%.

Note: “Read more detailed tips here when selecting the best roofing shingles for Texas in 2024.”

Top 5 Brands for Best Architectural Shingles in 2024

Choosing a reputable brand is crucial when selecting the best architectural shingles for your home. In 2024, several brands stand out for their quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Here are the top six brands that are leading the market this year:

1. GAF

Users often ask, are GAF shingles good for roofing? Yes, GAF is a leading manufacturer in the roofing industry, known for producing some of the best architectural shingles available. Their Timberline HDZ shingles are particularly popular due to their advanced LayerLock™ technology and high wind resistance. A robust warranty backs GAF shingles, which have consistently received top ratings for performance.

• GAF holds approximately 25% of the market share in the residential roofing segment.
• Enhanced StainGuard Plus™ technology, a wide range of colors, and superior durability.

2. CertainTeed

CertainTeed’s Landmark series is often considered among the best-rated architectural shingles due to its exceptional durability and wide range of color options. Known for its Max Def color palette, these shingles provide a stunning, high-definition appearance that enhances curb appeal.

• CertainTeed shingles are used annually in over 15% of new residential roofing projects.
• Dual-layered design for extra protection, Class A fire resistance, and lifetime limited warranty.

3. Owens Corning

Owens Corning’s Duration series offers some of the best-looking architectural shingles on the market. Their SureNail® Technology ensures a strong adhesive bond, making them highly resistant to wind and weather damage. These shingles are also known for their vibrant color blends and superior performance.

• Owens Corning is responsible for roofing approximately 18% of residential homes in the U.S.
• SureNail® Technology, algae resistance, and a wind resistance rating of up to 130 mph.

4. Atlas Roofing

Atlas Roofing’s Pinnacle® Pristine shingles are designed with Scotchgard™ Protector to prevent algae streaks, ensuring your roof looks beautiful for years. Due to their strength and long-lasting performance, they are considered among the best architectural asphalt shingles.

• Atlas shingles are used in around 10% of the residential roofing market.
• Scotchgard™ Protector, high wind resistance, and lifetime limited warranty.

5. TAMKO

TAMKO’s Heritage® series is popular for its affordability and reliability. These shingles are designed to offer a natural wood-shake appearance and come in various colors. TAMKO is known for providing some of the best prices on architectural shingles without compromising quality.

• TAMKO holds approximately 8% of the market share in residential roofing.
• Algae relief, robust fiberglass mat construction, and competitive pricing.

Homeowners often need clarification on Owens Corning vs GAF shingles, two of the most respected brands in the industry. Both offer excellent quality and durability, but the best choice depends on your specific needs and material preferences.

Frog Roofing: Your Best Choice for Installing Architectural Shingles

Choosing the right contractor is as important as selecting the best architectural shingles for your home. At Frog Roofing, we pride ourselves on being the best roofing company in Texas, specializing in installing high-quality architectural shingles. With over 15 years of experience, a 5-star Google rating, and more than 800 satisfied clients, our reputation speaks for itself.

Frog Roofing offers a special coupon: $500 OFF on new roof installations to make your roofing investment even more rewarding. This offer is designed to help homeowners achieve the perfect roof without breaking the bank. Contact us today at 945-227-8333 to take advantage of this limited-time offer and ensure your home is protected with the best architectural roofing shingles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are architectural shingles, and how do they differ from traditional 3-tab shingles?

Architectural shingles are thicker, multi-layered, and more durable than 3-tab shingles. They offer a textured look that mimics high-end materials like wood or slate.

2. How long do architectural shingles last compared to other roofing shingles?

Architectural shingles typically last 25 to 30 years, compared to 15 to 20 years for traditional 3-tab shingles. Premium options can last up to 50 years.

3. Are architectural shingles worth the extra cost?

Yes, architectural shingles are worth the extra cost due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and longer lifespan, which can save on repairs and increase home value.