What Are Roofing Shingles Made Of? Materials Explained for Homeowners
Roofing shingles may all look similar from the street, but they are made from different materials that affect how long your roof lasts, how well it protects your home, and how much it costs.
That’s why many homeowners ask a simple question:
What are roofing shingles made of?
This guide explains shingle materials in a clear, easy way, so you understand what’s on your roof and why it matters.
Roofing shingles are the outer layer of your roof. They overlap each other to create a barrier that protects your home from:
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Rain
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Sun
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Wind
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Heat
Most residential roofs in the U.S. use asphalt shingles, but even asphalt shingles are made from several different materials working together.
What Are Asphalt Roofing Shingles Made Of?
Asphalt shingles are made from multiple layers, each with a specific job.
1️⃣ Fiberglass Mat
This is the base of the shingle.
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Made from woven fiberglass
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Provides strength and shape
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Helps prevent tearing
Most modern shingles use fiberglass because it’s lighter and more fire-resistant.
2️⃣ Asphalt Coating
The fiberglass mat is coated with asphalt.
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Asphalt helps make shingles waterproof
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Adds flexibility
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Protects against moisture
This layer is critical for keeping water out of your home.
3️⃣ Mineral Granules
The top layer is covered with small granules.
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Made from crushed stone
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Protect shingles from UV rays
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Add color
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Improve fire resistance
When granules wear off, shingles age faster.
Why Granules Matter So Much
Granules are not just for looks.
They help:
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Reflect sunlight
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Reduce heat damage
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Protect the asphalt underneath
If you see granules collecting in gutters, it may be a sign your roof is aging.
This often ties into overall roof lifespan
How Long Does a Roof Last?
Are All Roofing Shingles Made the Same Way?
No. There are different types of asphalt shingles, even though the materials are similar.
3-Tab Shingles
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Thinner
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Lighter
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Shorter lifespan
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
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Thicker
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Stronger
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Better wind resistance
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Longer lifespan
You can compare options here:
What Are the Best Roofing Shingles?
What About Other Types of Roofing Shingles?
While asphalt is the most common, other shingle materials exist.
Metal Shingles
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Made from steel or aluminum
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Long lifespan
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More expensive
Wood Shingles
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Made from cedar or other wood
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Natural look
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Higher maintenance
Slate Shingles
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Made from stone
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Extremely durable
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Heavy and expensive
Each material has pros and cons depending on climate and budget.
How Shingle Materials Affect Roof Cost
Shingle materials directly impact cost.
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Thicker shingles cost more
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Better materials last longer
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Higher quality reduces repairs
You can see how materials affect pricing here:
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
Are Roofing Shingles Safe for Florida Homes?
Yes, but material choice matters more in Florida.
Florida roofs face:
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Intense sun
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Heavy rain
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Strong winds
That’s why architectural asphalt shingles are often recommended for residential roofing
residential roofing
They provide better durability in hot, humid climates.
Why Installation Matters as Much as Materials
Even the best shingles can fail if installed incorrectly.
Poor installation can cause:
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Leaks
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Shortened lifespan
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Warranty issues
That’s why working with professional roofing services matters
professional roofing services
Why Experience Matters When Choosing Roofing Shingles
At JA Edwards of America, we’ve installed and inspected thousands of roofs across Florida. We see firsthand how different shingle materials perform over time in real conditions.
This experience helps us guide homeowners toward materials that last longer and perform better in Florida’s climate.
FAQ: What Are Roofing Shingles Made Of?
What material are most roofing shingles made of?
Most roofing shingles are made from fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral granules.
Do shingles contain metal?
No. Asphalt shingles do not contain metal, but metal shingles are a separate roofing option.
Are thicker shingles better?
Usually yes. Thicker shingles tend to last longer and resist wind better.
Why do shingles lose granules?
Granule loss happens as shingles age or after severe weather.
Can shingles be recycled?
Yes. Many asphalt shingles can be recycled.
Final Thoughts
So, what are roofing shingles made of?
Most are made from fiberglass, asphalt, and protective granules that work together to protect your home.
Understanding these materials helps homeowners make smarter decisions when repairing or replacing a roof. If you’re unsure what type of shingles you have or whether they’re still in good condition, a professional