Your roof does more than just protect your home—it shapes your curb appeal, influences energy efficiency, and plays a major role in long-term property value. Whether you’re planning a roof replacement or building a new home, choosing the right shingles for your roof is essential. From materials and budget to style and performance, here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect shingles for your home.
Type of Shingles
Selecting your shingles starts with understanding your material options. Each type of roofing material offers its own advantages in terms of appearance, durability, and cost. Let’s take a closer look:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are Canada’s most commonly used roofing material due to their affordability and ease of installation. Traditional three-tab shingles are flat and uniform. Once a go-to option, most manufacturers have phased them out in favour of more durable alternatives. Choosing three-tab shingles for your roof may be the budget-friendly option, but could cost you more down the road in maintenance and repairs.
Metal Shingles
Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular for its long lifespan, energy efficiency, and resistance to fire and extreme weather. Metal shingles come in various finishes and can mimic the look of wood, slate, or asphalt—perfect for a modern or upscale appearance.
Fibreglass
Like asphalt, fibreglass shingles are a durable, innovative, and safe roofing choice. They are lightweight, fire-resistant, and affordable, extending your roof’s lifespan and reducing heating, cooling, and maintenance costs over time.
Architectural Shingles
The term architectural refers to shingles engineered with aesthetics in mind—crafted to complement modern architectural styles and trends, while offering superior resistance to weather, mould, and fading. Choosing architectural shingles for your roof is a great, low-maintenance option that delivers high-end style.
Wood Shingles & Cedar Shakes
For a natural, rustic look, wood shingles and shakes are a classic choice. While they offer great aesthetic appeal and durability, they typically require more maintenance and can be more expensive. Depending on your region, you may also need to factor in fire-resistance ratings and local codes.
Rubber Roofing
Ideal for flat or low-slope roofs, rubber roofing is highly durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting. It’s especially effective in cold climates. Choosing rubber shingles for your roof is particularly smart for Albertans, whose homes are subject to heavy snowfall and hail.
Laminate Shingles
Made by bonding multiple layers of asphalt and fibreglass together, laminate shingles deliver a long-lasting, dynamic appearance that replicates natural wood shakes or slate tiles. These thicker tiles deliver increased resistance to wind, hail, and harsh weather conditions, and can last 25 to 30 years, or more, with proper maintenance.
Choosing the Right Colour of Shingles for Your Roof
Colour selection isn’t just a style choice—it’s a strategic decision that affects curb appeal, resale value, and overall balance with your home’s exterior.
- Stick to neutral colours like gray, taupe, or brown for a timeless and versatile look.
- Aim for contrast, not a perfect match. Shingles should complement your siding—not blend into it—to create definition and dimension.
- Consider regional preferences. Look at surrounding homes to help choose a shade that blends well within your neighbourhood.
- Think functionally. Light shingles reflect sunlight and help reduce heat absorption, while dark shingles offer a traditional aesthetic and are great for hiding dirt and stains.
- Use bold colours with caution. They can highlight architectural features, but may not suit every style or resale market.
A. Clark Roofing & Siding works with trusted suppliers who offer a wide range of colours and styles, ensuring you find a look that fits your home and your vision.
Why Choose A. Clark Roofing & Siding?
At A. Clark Roofing & Siding, we deliver expert installation services using premium materials and advanced techniques to ensure exceptional results every time. Focused on both durability and visual appeal, we customize each project to match your exact needs—so you get a finish that’s built to last and made to impress.
When it comes to choosing shingles for your roof, we’ve got you covered. With A. Clark Roofing & Siding, you get:
- Expert installation
- Ongoing project inspections
- Custom roofing solutions
- Customer satisfaction guaranteed
Contact A. Clark Roofing & Siding today for expert guidance on choosing and installing the best shingles for your Alberta home!
