Providing strength and flexibility, shingle roof systems are composed of small units installed in an overlapping fashion to direct water flow off the roof.  Shingle composition, size and style can vary.  Shingle compositions include:

• Asphalt Shingles - Asphalt shingles are generally composed of an organic material saturated with asphalt and surfaced with granule.  Also available with an inorganic substrate, an asphalt shingle has a usual life span of less than 20 years.
• Fiberglass Shingles - These inorganic shingles are generally lighter in weight than asphalt shingles and can be laminated to provide a three dimensional appearance.  Some can be produced to resemble wood, slate or copper roofs.  Fiberglass shingles typically have a longer lifespan than traditional asphalt shingles; they can last 30 to 40 years if installed properly.
• Metal Shingles - Sometimes called metal tile roof, these shingles are usually made of aluminum, galvanized, copper or tin.  It is not uncommon to find metal shingle roofs still in service after 50 years.
• Wood Shingles and Shakes - Both wood products, a shingle is sawn from a block of wood, while a shake is split.  Red cedar is the predominant wood used in North America for this shingle, which may require special deck venting consideration.