Asphalt Shingles 101: Types, Brand Comparison, Pros/Cons and Costs
Last Updated: November 14, 2023
Fact Checked By: Ryan Maguire
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Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States. In fact, if you drive around a typical residential neighborhood, approximately three out of four homes you pass will have asphalt shingle roofing.
The popularity of asphalt roofs, also known as composition roofs, stems from their cost effectiveness and performance. While materials such as slate and tile may last significantly longer than asphalt, their high price tag makes them unrealistic for the majority of homeowners.
Furthermore, technological advancements have resulted in asphalt shingles that are more attractive, longer lasting, and better for the environment.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost #
An asphalt shingle roof typically costs $300 - $700 per square to install. This includes:
Asphalt shingle cost - $80 - $150 per square for materials
Underlayment - $30 - $50 per square for synthetic underlayment
Labor - $100 - $300 per square for installation
Other materials - $50 - $100 per square for hip/ridge caps, flashings, vents, fasteners
Dump fees - $30 - $100 per square if tearing off old shingles
The average homeowner pays $250 - $550 per square for complete asphalt shingle roof replacement. For a typical 25 square roof, expect to pay $6,250 - $13,750 total.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Real life Price Examples #
"I had a new architectural shingle roof installed on my 1800 sq ft single story home in Ohio. The contractor charged $325 per square including tear-off, new underlayment, and disposal fees. The total project cost was $11,700."
"For my 2500 sq ft two-story colonial in Maryland, I got quotes from a few roofers and went with a mid-grade dimensional shingle for $275 per square installed. With labor and materials, my total new roof cost was $13,750."
"I went with a budget-friendly 3-tab shingle from Owens Corning for my 1400 sq ft Cape Cod style house in Rhode Island. With the multiple roof levels, the final price came out to $225 per square. In total I paid $6,300."
"For my large luxury home in California, I opted for premium designer architectural shingles that cost $550 per square including installation labor and materials. For the roof's 40 squares, my total was $22,000."
The type and quality of asphalt shingles along with roof size, complexity and location all impact the per square and total costs. But most fall within the range of $200 - $600 per square installed.
Popular Asphalt Shingle Brands #
| Brand | Cost per Sq Ft | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| GAF | $15 - $50 | Wide variety of styles Good warranties | Premium lines are costly |
| Owens Corning | $10 - $45 | Durable Popular color options | Some fading over time |
| CertainTeed | $12.50 - $42.50 | High quality Strong algae resistance | Limited lifetime warranty |
| IKO | $8 - $35 | Affordable Good diversity of options | Basic 20-year warranty |
| Malarkey | $17.50 - $50.00 | Sustainable options available Great durability | Expensive high-end lines |
Asphalt Shingle Types #
The main types of asphalt shingles are:
3-Tab Shingles - The most basic and affordable option. Have a 3 tab design and 20-25 year lifespan. Cost $80-$150 per square installed.
Architectural Shingles - Also called dimensional or laminated shingles. Have a thicker profile and shadowing for a more distinctive look. 25-50 year lifespan. Cost $150-$400 per square installed.
Premium Architectural Shingles - High-end designer shingles with unique textures, patterns and colors. Lifetime warranties available. Cost $300-$500+ per square installed.
Luxury Shingles - Top-tier designer shingles made with premium materials and craftsmanship. Max durability and visual appeal. Cost $400-$700+ per square installed.
Impact Resistant Shingles - Meet specialized wind rating standards. Critical for hurricane-prone regions. Cost a $100-$150 premium per square.
Algae Resistant Shingles - Have zinc or copper granules to prevent ugly black streaks from algae growth. Add $50-$100 per square.
Cool Roof Shingles - Reflective color pigments reduce heat absorption. Help lower energy costs. Add $0-$50 per square cost.