Two types of asphalt shingles can be used: organic and fiberglass. Organic shingles are generally paper saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof, then a top coating of adhesive asphalt is applied andceramic granules are then embedded. Fiberglass shingles have a base layer of glass fiber reinforcing mat. The mat is made from wet, random-laid fiberglass bonded with urea-formaldehyderesin. The mat is then coated with asphalt which contains mineral fillers and makes the fiberglass shingle waterproof. A newer design of fiberglass asphalt shingle, called laminated or architectural, uses two distinct layers which are bonded together with asphalt sealant. Architectural shingles are heavier, and more durable than traditional 3-tab shingle designs. Architectural shingles also give a more varied, contoured visual effect to a roof surface.

Properly maintained, metal shingles will last many, many years. Their are many designs and types of metal roofing made to immitate the look of wood or asphalt. Metal roofs are excellent insulators, not only will your metal roof keep your house comfortable regardless of the weather outside, but also it can actually lower your air conditioning and heating bills. Many metal roofing systems contain at least 30% of recycled metal content, which qualifies them for a LEED green building credit. Metal shingle roofs will not chip, rot, or crack due to harsh environmental conditions. Metal roofs do not support fire, they shed snow and ice, which helps prevent ice dams, they
retain their value throughout the entire life cycle and are fully recyclable at the end of their service life

A shake is a wooden shingle that is made from split logs. When these are used for covering the top of a house, the result is a shakeroof. There are various types of shakes, the main differentiating feature between shakes and other types of shingles is that shakes are split while most shingles are sawnon all sides. The sizes also vary from country to country; in North America shakes are usually made in 24-inch lengths - the most common, 18-inch barn shake, or even 48-inch shakes, which are typically used forsiding. Wood shake roofs give a classic rustic feel to a home.