Selecting a new roof is not exactly the most thrilling home renovation. But folks, your roof is not just some boring hat sitting on top of your house—it is the crown, the superstar, the VIP section of your home’s look.
It is what keeps you safe from raindrops, snowflakes, and whatever else Mother Nature decides to chuck at you because she can be moody.
So why settle for “just okay” when you could have a roof that wows?
When picking the perfect roof, you want something stylish, strong, and does not drain your bank account faster than an online shopping spree.
So, in shingles versus slates – the ultimate showdown – what seems more aesthetically appealing?
Let us compare them feature by feature so that you can confidently select the ideal roof for your home.
Understanding the Basics
What is an Asphalt Shingle?
If you are wondering what asphalt shingles are, This roofing material is so popular that it is the A-list celebrity of the roofing world—covering nearly 75% of homes across North America.
It is lightweight, adaptable, comes in many colors, and can be installed faster than your weekend DIY project (by professionals, of course).
Generally, it is made from a base of fiberglass or organic material, coated with asphalt, and topped with mineral granules for extra protection. The roofing option is built for performance. And the best benefits of asphalt shingles? You have options!
- 3-tab shingles: The clean-cut, classic option. This one is straightforward, classic, and subtly chic.
- Architectural shingles: Also called dimensional shingles, they provide additional texture and depth, creating effortless sophistication.
- Luxury shingles: These premium stunners replicate natural elements such as slate or cedar without the eye-watering cost.
What Is a Slate Roof?
This is not your factory-intense roofing material—it is a chunk of the earth itself. Slate tiles are sliced from solid natural stone and have protected buildings for centuries.
If your dream home features dramatic curb appeal, old-world charm, and a roof that will outlast you (and your grandkids), then slate is the way to go.
But before you start fantasizing about your mansion-like home, let us see how it really stacks up.
The Ultimate Showdown: Shingles vs. Slates
Aesthetics
Asphalt roof shingles are the chameleons of roofing.
From old-fashioned, off-white-hued roofs to dramatic, eye-catching colors to shingles mimicking slate at a low price point, they can do it all!
A major benefit of asphalt shingles is that they place the decision in your hands to get your roof any color you wish without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if your goal is to turn heads, then slate is the head-turner. Its rich, natural texture, stunning color hues, and sleek, high-end look exclaim luxury.
It is the type of roof that makes neighbors stop and stare (and maybe snap a photo for Pinterest). It looks fabulous with old homes and European-style homes and complements anyone who loves the finer things in life.
Winner: Slate gets style points for beauty, but shingles get flexibility points.
Durability
Asphalt roof shingles, while still long-lasting, have a relatively shorter lifespan.
The best quality asphalt roof shingles last about 40 years, but they are nowhere near slate in terms of longevity.
Nevertheless, they can withstand wind, rain, and snow quite well, which is why they are ideal for the majority of homeowners.
Slate is almost indestructible. A well-installed slate roof can last more than 100 years (some even reach 150!). It is resistant to fire, water, and extreme weather. Your great-grandchildren may inherit your home with the same roof still on it.
Winner: Slate takes the crown as the most durable one.
Cost
Asphalt shingles are all about affordability. Even the expensive, ones are a fraction of what slate is. And they are quick and easy to install, so labor costs are minimal.
If you want a great-looking roof that won’t have your bank account crying, asphalt roof shingles are the answer.
Let us be realistic—slate is pricey. Like, really pricey
The material itself costs a lot of money, but installing it is another expense altogether.
Slate tiles weigh a lot, are delicate, and need expertise to install. That means you will have to hire expert roofers who can do the job, and you can bet it won’t come cheap.
Winner: Asphalt shingles because of their immense affordability without sacrificing style.
Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are a piece of cake to fix. Broken shingle? Just replace it. Need a patch job in a hurry? No problem. Easy, cheap, and no roofer required.
On the flip side, after installation, slate maintenance doesn’t require a lot of effort. But if you break one of the tiles? That is when it gets complicated.
Slate is easily breakable when compressed, so if someone walks on your roof in the wrong direction, they may break one of the tiles.
And because slate is not exactly something you can grab down at the hardware store, you won’t be able to replace it so easily.
Winner: Asphalt shingles take the gold for easy, hassle-free maintenance.
Installation
Asphalt shingles are easy to put on, however. A commercial crew can complete an asphalt shingle roof within a day or two.
A fast installation without the headache? That’s one of the best benefits of asphalt shingles.
Let us be honest—installing a slate roof is not a Saturday afternoon do-it-yourself project. The tiles are heavy, awkward to handle, and require professional expertise to fit correctly.
A standard slate installation takes weeks to complete, and not every roofing contractor can accomplish the task.
Winner: Asphalt shingles are the winner at easy and rapid installation.
Environmental Impact
Asphalt shingles are quite eco-friendly since they need to be replaced more frequently and typically end up in landfills. A few makers now create asphalt shingles with recyclability in mind, so they are greener than ever.
Slate is one of the greenest roofing materials around. It is made of natural stone, never needs chemical treatment, and can last for centuries. On top of all that, it is fully recyclable, so it won’t end up in a landfill anytime soon.
Winner: Slate takes the round for longevity and long-term environmental benefits.
The Final Verdict
If you want a high-tech, elegant, and forever gorgeous roof, slate is your champion. It is an expensive option that makes a statement and lasts for centuries.
Asphalt shingles are the perfect choice if you desire a stylish, useful, and budget-friendly option. Their benefits are manifold. They offer flexibility, installation simplicity, and many design options to match your home’s character.
Need help choosing the perfect roof? Do you want to go with the best quality asphalt roof shingles or the timeless elegance of slate? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered at LA Roofing Materials. Connect with us and choose the perfect roofing solution for your house!