Shingle roofs are a popular choice for homeowners for several reasons. One of the main factors is their durability. Shingles are durable and can withstand severe weather conditions.
However, it is essential to clearly understand the expenses involved to ensure that your roofing project stays within your budget.
This article discusses the cost of different types of roof shingles and the factors that affect the overall cost.
Types of Roof Shingles
Aluminum Shingles
Average lifespan: 50-80 years.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Average Lifespan: 15-30 years
Architectural asphalt shingles, also called dimensional or laminate shingles, are popular option due to their durability and affordability. These shingles are made of fiberglass coated with asphalt and mineral granules.
Slate Shingles
Average Lifespan: 100 years
Slate shingles are made from natural stone, providing exceptional durability and a long lifespan. They are fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Steel Shingles
Average Lifespan: 40-70 years
Steel shingles offer exceptional durability and a modern aesthetic to your home. These shingles are designed to resemble the appearance of concrete or clay tile roofs while providing superior energy efficiency and longevity.
Wood Shakes or Shingles
Average Lifespan: 40-50 years
Wood shingles are machine-made and sewn on both sides, resulting in a uniform thickness and a sleek, refined appearance. They are typically thinner and have a smoother surface compared to wood shakes.
Wood shakes, on the other hand, wood shakes are typically handcrafted using handheld power equipment. They are sawn on one side and hand split on the other, giving them a unique and rustic appearance.
Basic Asphalt Shingles
Average Lifespan: 15-20 years
Basic Asphalt shingles come in standard colors like gray, brown, and black. They are a cost-effective roofing option for homeowners on a budget or those looking for a simple and functional solution.
However, basic asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other shingle types.
Composite Shingles
Average Lifespan: 50 years
Composite shingles, also known as synthetic or traditional shingles, are typically made from fiberglass, recycled paper products, and asphalt.
This unique composition provides composite shingles with inherent resistance to fire and moisture, making them a reliable choice for homeowners seeking enhanced protection against these elements.
Aluminum shingles are a lightweight and durable option for your roof. They are resistant to corrosion and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a reliable choice. These shingles are also eco-friendly as they can be recycled.
Cost by Type of Shingles
The type of shingles you choose affects the appearance of your roof and influences the overall expenses involved. Shingles come in different materials, each with unique characteristics and price ranges.
The table below is an overview of the different types of shingles and their respective costs:
| Shingle Material | Total Price per Square Foot |
| Aluminum shingles | $8.50–$13.75 |
| Architectural asphalt shingles | $4.50–$12.25 |
| Slate shingles | $12.00–$22.00 |
| Steel shingles | $8.00–$12.65 |
| Wood shakes or shingles | $8.00–$14.30 |
| Basic asphalt shingles | $4.25–$8.25 |
| Composite shingles | $7.50–$13.00 |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Shingle Roof
Types of Shingle and Quality
Shingles are available in materials such as asphalt, wood, metal, slate, and synthetic materials. Each material has its price range, with some being more affordable than others.
The shingles’ quality also affects the cost, with high-quality and durable shingles costing more. Lifespan, resistance to weather conditions, and aesthetic appeal also impact the price.
Roof Size
With a larger surface area to cover, the cost would increase accordingly. It’s important to remember that the size of your roof directly influences the amount of materials needed and the time required for proper shingle installation.
Roof’s Height and Accessibility
Roofs that are taller or have difficult-to-reach areas may require additional safety measures, specialized equipment, and more labor hours. These factors can increase the overall expense. Accessibility issues, such as narrow pathways or obstacles hindering access to the roof, can also add to the complexity and cost of the installation.
Removal of Existing Roofing Material
If necessary, removing existing roofing material adds to the overall cost of a shingle roof. The complexity of the removal process and the disposal of old materials contribute to the overall cost.
Contractor Expertise and Reputation
A roofing contractor in Freehold NJ, with extensive experience and a solid reputation in the industry, charges higher for their services. Their expertise and skill level contribute to the overall quality of the installation, ensuring that your shingle roof is built to last. Hiring a reputable contractor means receiving professional guidance, reliable warranties, and exceptional customer service.
Additional Features and Upgrades
You can incorporate additional features and upgrades to enhance its functionality and performance when installing a shingle roof. While these enhancements cost extra, they offer long-term benefits.
One popular upgrade is energy-efficient solutions. Choosing energy-efficient shingles or adding solar panels to your roof can reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills over time. Another valuable upgrade is improved insulation. Enhancing the insulation in your roof helps regulate indoor temperature and increases energy efficiency.
Key Takeaways
Shingle roofs are a popular choice among homeowners due to their durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions.
Here is a breakdown of the per-square-foot cost of various shingle types:
- Aluminum shingles: $8.50–$13.75 (durable, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion)
- Architectural asphalt shingles: $4.50–$12.25 (affordable, durable, and available in a wide range of styles)
- Slate shingles: $12.00–$22.00 (exceptionally durable, fire-resistant, and long-lasting)
- Steel shingles: $8.00–$12.65 (modern aesthetic, energy-efficient, and highly durable)
- Wood shakes or shingles: $8.00–$14.30 (natural beauty, rustic appeal, and good insulation properties)
- Basic asphalt shingles: $4.25–$8.25 (cost-effective, simple, and functional)
- Composite shingles: $7.50–$13.00 (resistant to fire and moisture, long-lasting, and eco-friendly)
The cost of a shingle roof is influenced by several factors, including the type and quality of
shingle material, the size of the roof, the roof’s height and accessibility, the removal of existing roofing material, the expertise and reputation of the contractor, and any additional features or upgrades desired.
When you’re ready to install a shingle roof that meets your budget, trust Trenton Roofing & Siding to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Alex Valentino – Vice President
Leading the way for the company’s second generation of family and employee ownership, Alex’s mission is to create lasting relationships built on trust and respect by providing uncompromising workmanship and unparalleled customer service. With a focus on safety and consumer education, Trenton Roofing strives to set the bar for the advancement of the roofing industry and the betterment of our local communities. When he is not working, Alex can be found traveling with his fiancée, watching football or playing a relaxing round of golf with his friends.