According to roofcalc.org, a residential roof in the US is on average 1600 sq. ft. This is a lot of square footage to fill with one type of shingles. Choosing the right type of shingles for you can be very important and can increase your home's curb appeal. Before you make your decision with your roofers, here are five types of shingles you can choose for your new roof.

1. Asphalt Shingles

This is the most popular type of roofing material because it has many beneficial features for all regions of the country. Asphalt shingles can be made up of fiberglass or organic materials. It is one of the cheapest types of shingles, so you won't have to worry about going way out of your budget with this choice when speaking with your roofers. It works great in different climates, so if you live in an area that gets all four seasons, this may be the best option for you. There are a variety of colors you can choose from, so you can get that aesthetic appearance you are looking for.

2. Metal Roof Shingles

This type of roofing material is easy to install and is lighter in weight due to most options being made of aluminum, steel, copper, or alloy. Metal roof shingles can last up to 100 years, making them have the longest life amongst all of the shingles. Metal roofs are very durable with very low maintenance, but it is still important to have your local roofing services inspect and maintain your roof once a year. Metal shingles can come in a variety of colors, but you can paint them any color you want as well.

3. Wood Shingles

As the name states, these are shingles made up of different types of wood, cut into thin sections. These types of wood can be cedar, spruce, or pine. You can get these shingles in the normal, perfect shapes to give your home that clean feel or you can choose wood shakes, which are hand-cut to give your home that rustic appearance you may be looking for. Wood shingles are not recommended for homes in wet climates because you are more susceptible to water damage and rotting. This can make these roofs very high maintenance, so it is important to make sure that you will be able to take care of your wood roof even if that just means calling in your local roofers for yearly inspections.

4. Clay Tiles

Clay shingles are very popular when it comes to Spanish-style homes. This is due to the variety of colors and styles they provide for your home. This option is very heavy in weight, so they will need extra support. You must also get a consultation before you have these installed on your home to make sure they will be structurally supported and safe for your home and family. These types of roofs give great curb appeal and can draw any potential buyer's eye.

5. Composite Shingles

This type of shingle can be used for houses in all regions of the country. They are made of polymer, rubber, or plastic. They are very expensive, but they can offer you a wide variety of colors and styles. They can mimic the look of natural materials but have a lifespan of over 50 years. If you want wood roofing but live in a wet climate, composite shingles might be the best option for you to have that mimicked look.

Contact your local roofers to see what kind of materials they offer. There are so many options when it comes to upgrading your home and your roof is a great place to start. Understanding what types of shingles would work best on your home in your region can help you pick the best choice.