One of the most important decisions a homeowner has to make with regard to a residential reroofing project is what type of shingles to use.  The other major decision is choosing a good roofing contractor.  When choosing roofing shingles, cost is an important consideration, but not the only or even the most important consideration.   No matter how low the price, if you use poor quality roofing shingles you will end up with a poor quality roof.

Reroofing is expensive and a big chunk of the cost is labor.  A properly installed roof using good quality three tab asphalt shingles can last 25 to 30 years but if you use cheap shingles, you will have to have the roof replaced at least once and maybe twice in that same time period.  Why pay for labor two or three times to have several cheap roofs installed when you can pay for labor once and enjoy the security and protection afforded by a high quality roof?

Roofing shingles are priced by the “square” which is enough roofing material to cover 100 square feet of roof.  Asphalt shingles range in price from as low as $75 per square to over $200 per square.  At the low end you are typically getting the most basic three tab shingles with a 70 mph wind resistance rating and a 20 year manufacturer’s warranty.  For around $100 per square you can find good quality three tab shingles with a 30 year warranty and a 70 mph wind resistance rating.

At the high end you will find top quality laminated shingles with lifetime warranties and wind resistance ratings of 120 mph and higher.  Your roofing contractor can help you decide on the best shingles for your home that will meet your needs and fit your budget.

Remember, you get what you pay for, and when it comes to the protection of your home, you want to stay away from compromise.