Are Designer Shingles Worth It? (Pricing, Benefits, & More)
When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and durability of your home’s roof, traditional asphalt shingles have long been the go-to choice. However, a growing trend in the roofing industry is the emergence of designer shingles.
These premium roofing materials not only provide superior protection against the elements but also offer a wide range of styles, colors, and textures to complement any architectural design.
Rescue My Roof has been working with homeowners for over a decade, helping them choose the best materials to keep their homes safe. Today, we’ll use our expertise to help you determine whether or not designer shingles are the right choice for your home.
In this article, we’ll explore what designer shingles are, their benefits, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Ultimately, you’ll know if you want to stick with dimensional asphalt shingles, or choose designer shingles.
What Are Designer Shingles?
Designer shingles, also known as luxury shingles, are a type of premium asphalt shingle that is engineered to mimic the appearance of more expensive roofing materials such as slate, wood, or tile.
Unlike traditional 3-tab shingles, which have a flat and uniform look, designer shingles feature multiple layers and varying shapes to create a more dynamic and visually appealing roof profile. They are typically thicker and heavier than standard shingles, providing enhanced durability and weather resistance.
However, even with their enhanced performance, a drawback for many homeowners is their high price point.
How Much Do Designer Shingles Cost?
Designer shingles have a premium price point. To be completely honest, most homeowners won’t be able to afford this steep price.
We can’t give you an exact price for designer shingles because of the varying factors that go into a new roof’s cost. However, we can give you a general idea of the budget you’ll need if you choose designer asphalt shingles for your roof replacement.
For a two-story house with a cut-up, complex roof, a steep pitch, and not easily accessible, you can expect a new designer asphalt shingle roof to cost around $8.00 per square foot, while dimensional shingles typically run $2-4 per square foot.
Unfortunately, most homeowners won’t be able to afford a designer shingle roof. But if you’re looking for a more affordable but still good quality material, architectural asphalt shingles are a great option.
Designer Shingle Warranties
You’ll have two types of warranties after your designer asphalt shingle roof is installed. The first one is on your roofing contractor’s workmanship, which varies depending on the company you use.
The second one is from the manufacturer, which covers problems with the designer asphalt shingles themselves. Most designer shingles come out of the package with a 30-year prorated material warranty.
But if you form a complete roof system by using one manufacturer’s roofing components and materials, you’ll qualify for an extended non-prorated warranty. This enhanced warranty ensures the manufacturer covers your entire roof for the life of the roofing materials.
Unfortunately, improper roof installation and inadequate attic ventilation void any manufacturer warranties you have. To avoid this happening to your investment, you need to hire a high-quality roofing contractor to install your designer asphalt shingles.
Benefits of Designer Shingles
If designer shingles are in your price range, they do have a list of benefits that may appeal to homeowners. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from designer shingles:
1. Aesthetic Appeal
One of the primary advantages of designer shingles is their ability to enhance the curb appeal and overall aesthetics of your home. With a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures available, you can choose designer shingles that complement your home’s architectural style and personal preferences.
Whether you prefer the rustic charm of cedar shake or the sleek sophistication of slate, there’s a designer shingle option to suit every taste.
2. Durability and Performance
While designer shingles offer superior visual appeal, they are also engineered for durability and long-term performance.
Most designer shingles are made from high-quality asphalt reinforced with fiberglass or other materials, making them more resistant to impact, wind, and UV damage than standard shingles. Additionally, many designer shingles come with extended warranties, providing peace of mind and protection for your investment.
3. Energy Efficiency
Some designer shingles are designed with energy-efficient features, such as reflective granules or cool roof technology, which help reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs during hot summer months.
By choosing energy-efficient designer shingles, you can improve the comfort of your home while also reducing your environmental footprint.
Are Designer Shingles Worth It?
Designer shingles offer a winning combination of style, durability, and performance, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking to elevate the look and functionality of their roofs. But, they do come at a higher price.
Whether you’re renovating an existing home or building a new one, designer shingles are one of many shingle options that provide endless possibilities for customization and enhancement.
If designer shingles fall within budget, consider exploring the wide range of designer shingle options available to find the perfect fit for your home and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and long-lasting roof for years to come.
If you’re still looking for your perfect, budget-friendly shingle options, read “Atlas Pinnacle vs. CertainTeed Landmark: Which is Best” and “Atlas Pinnacle vs. Stormmaster Shingles” to learn more.
Additionally, you can download our Buyer’s Guide to help you make decisions about your roof every step of the buying process.
Are you looking for a reputable roofing contractor in southeastern Wisconsin? Contact Rescue My Roof today to get your free roof estimate.