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What Are Shingles Made Of? A Homeowner’s Guide to Roofing Materials
When it comes to roofing, shingles are the most visible—and arguably most important—component protecting your home. If you’re planning to replace or repair your roof, you’ve probably asked the question: “What are shingles made of?”
The answer isn’t as simple as “asphalt” or “wood.” In fact, roofing shingles come in a variety of materials, each with its own structure, cost, longevity, and performance benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the different types of shingles, what they’re made of, and which type is right for your home in Northeast Ohio. We’ll also show you how S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC—a trusted local roofing company serving communities like Youngstown, Jefferson, Medina, Cleveland, and Lakewood—can help you choose and install the best shingles for your needs.
What Are Roofing Shingles?
Roofing shingles are flat or curved tiles made from various materials, designed to be installed in overlapping rows on a roof. They serve as the outermost protective layer, shielding your home from rain, snow, UV rays, and high winds.
Shingles are not just about aesthetics—they are a vital part of your home’s structural defense system.
Why It’s Important to Know What Shingles Are Made Of
Before choosing a roofing system, understanding the materials behind each shingle can help you:
- Choose the right type for your climate
- Ensure maximum energy efficiency
- Understand longevity and warranty options
- Avoid common roofing problems down the road
Not all shingles are created equal, and at S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we believe an educated homeowner is a protected homeowner.
The Most Common Types of Roofing Shingles and What They’re Made Of
Let’s dive into the most popular types of shingles and examine what materials are used to make them.
1. Asphalt Shingles (Most Common)
What Are They Made Of?
Asphalt shingles are made up of three primary layers:
- Fiberglass Mat or Organic Base
- The foundation of the shingle
- Fiberglass provides lightweight strength and fire resistance
- Older versions used an organic felt (made from recycled paper or wood)
- Asphalt Coating
- Saturated over the base to make the shingle waterproof
- Typically made from refined petroleum products
- Granule Surface Layer
- Crushed rock, ceramic-coated minerals, or slag
- Protects against UV rays and adds color
Types of Asphalt Shingles:
- 3-Tab Shingles – Thin, lightweight, budget-friendly
- Architectural Shingles (Dimensional) – Thicker, textured, and longer-lasting
- Luxury Shingles – Designed to mimic wood or slate at a fraction of the cost
Why Homeowners Love Asphalt Shingles:
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Fire-resistant
- Good performance in Ohio’s varying weather
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we often recommend Owens Corning Duration shingles, which offer SureNail® Technology for added wind resistance and durability—perfect for Ohio’s tough seasons.
2. Wood Shingles and Shakes
What Are They Made Of?
Wood shingles are made from natural hardwoods like:
- Cedar
- Redwood
- Pine
- Cypress
Wood shakes are thicker and more rugged than shingles, often split by hand for a rustic appearance.
Pros:
- Beautiful, natural look
- Good insulation value
- Eco-friendly (biodegradable)
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Requires maintenance
- Vulnerable to fire unless treated
Wood isn’t the best choice for all climates, but some homeowners in Northeast Ohio opt for treated cedar when they want a premium aesthetic.
3. Metal Shingles
What Are They Made Of?
Metal shingles can be made from:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc
They often come coated in a protective layer of paint or stone granules to resist corrosion and enhance appearance.
Styles:
- Can mimic wood, slate, or traditional asphalt
- Interlocking panels for added durability
Benefits:
- Extremely long-lasting (40–70 years)
- Reflect heat, improving energy efficiency
- Lightweight and fire-resistant
Metal is gaining popularity in Ohio due to its performance in high winds and heavy snow.
4. Slate Shingles
What Are They Made Of?
Slate shingles are made from natural stone—specifically quarried slate rock—cut into thin tiles.
Pros:
- Exceptional lifespan (75–100+ years)
- Fireproof
- Timeless aesthetic
Cons:
- Very heavy (requires reinforced roof structure)
- Expensive
- Difficult to install and repair
We don’t often see slate used in everyday homes in Youngstown or Jefferson due to cost, but it’s occasionally installed in luxury or historic homes.
5. Clay and Concrete Tile Shingles
What Are They Made Of?
- Clay Shingles: Kiln-baked clay shaped into half-cylinder tiles
- Concrete Shingles: Mixture of sand, water, and cement
These are more common in southwestern states but sometimes appear on high-end or custom homes.
Pros:
- Durable
- Fire-resistant
- Distinctive Mediterranean style
Cons:
- Very heavy
- Fragile during freezing cycles (not ideal for Ohio’s winters)
- High upfront cost
We rarely recommend clay tiles in Northeast Ohio because of the freeze-thaw cycle, but concrete tile can be viable with proper support and drainage.
What Are Composite or Synthetic Shingles Made Of?
Composite shingles are engineered using a blend of:
- Recycled plastics
- Rubber
- Polymers
- Reinforced fiberglass
They’re designed to look like slate, wood, or asphalt but offer longer durability with less maintenance.
Why Choose Composite?
- Weather-resistant
- Eco-friendly
- Lighter than slate or concrete
- UV and fire resistant
Some top brands like DaVinci or CertainTeed offer high-end composite shingles that work well for Northeast Ohio homes looking for a premium finish without the weight.
Environmental Impact of Shingle Materials
Shingles have different ecological footprints based on their material:
- Asphalt Shingles: Petroleum-based, less eco-friendly but widely recycled
- Wood Shingles: Renewable, biodegradable, but may require tree harvesting
- Metal Shingles: Often made from recycled material and recyclable at end of life
- Composite Shingles: Many are made from post-consumer plastics
- Slate/Clay/Concrete: Natural, but heavy to transport
If sustainability matters to you, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC can help you choose shingles that match your green goals.
How Long Do Shingles Last?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Shingle Type | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt | 15–20 years |
| Architectural Asphalt | 25–30 years |
| Wood Shingles | 30–40 years |
| Metal Shingles | 40–70 years |
| Slate Shingles | 75–100 years |
| Composite Shingles | 40–50 years |
Note: Proper installation and attic ventilation dramatically affect lifespan.
S&K Construction and Remodeling: Your Trusted Roofing Partner
If you’re in Northeast Ohio and wondering what type of shingles are best for your home, let the experts at S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC guide you.
We are an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, which means we offer:
- Extended product warranties
- High-quality shingles backed by a national brand
- Factory-trained roofers
- A commitment to excellence in service and craftsmanship
Our Service Areas
We proudly serve:
- Youngstown
- Jefferson
- Ashtabula County
- Lake County
- Geauga County
- Cleveland
- Willoughby
- Painesville
- Madison
- Mentor
- Chardon
- Concord
- Medina
- Wickliffe
- Twinsburg
- Lyndhurst
- And surrounding communities
Financing Available
We believe that every homeowner deserves a safe, quality roof—without financial stress. That’s why we offer:
- 0% financing options
- Low monthly payments
- No upfront payment options
- Quick approval times
Whether it’s a small repair or a complete shingle replacement, we’ll help you find a plan that works for your budget.
Real Reviews from Our Customers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“S&K replaced our roof with Owens Corning Duration shingles. The job was fast, professional, and flawless. Highly recommend them!” – Stephanie D., Jefferson OH
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“We didn’t even know our vent boots were leaking until S&K did a free inspection. They replaced everything and gave us peace of mind.” – Mike P., Youngstown OH
Final Thoughts: What Are the Best Shingles for Your Home?
Choosing the right shingles isn’t just about cost—it’s about matching the right material to your home, climate, and lifestyle. Whether you prefer traditional asphalt, energy-efficient metal, or the luxury of composite or slate, the team at S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is here to help.
We take the time to educate our customers, offer free estimates, provide professional installation, and back our work with strong warranties.
📞 Ready for a New Roof?
Contact us today for a FREE consultation or roof inspection.
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
📍 Jefferson, OH
📞 440.235.3124
🌐 www.skroofingandremodeling.com
💲 Financing Available | 🛠 Owens Corning Preferred Contractor | 🔨 Local & Trusted
