What Are the Best Roofing Shingles? A Simple Guide for Homeowners

Choosing a new roof can feel confusing, especially when you start hearing words like shingles, architectural, impact-resistant, and warranties. Many homeowners ask the same question:

What are the best roofing shingles?

The truth is, there is no “one perfect shingle” for everyone. The best shingles depend on where you live, your budget, and how long you want your roof to last. In Florida, the heat, rain, and storms make this choice even more important.

This guide explains everything in a simple and easy way, so you can feel confident about choosing the right shingles for your home.

What Are Roofing Shingles?

Roofing shingles are the flat pieces that cover your roof. They work together like armor to protect your home from:

• Sun

• Rain

• Wind

• Heat

Most homes in the U.S. use asphalt shingles because they are affordable, durable, and easy to install. But not all shingles are the same, and some are much better than others.

What Makes a Roofing Shingle “Good”?

A good roofing shingle does more than just look nice. Here are the most important things to look for.

Durability

Good shingles should hold up against strong sun, heavy rain, and wind.

Weather Resistance

In Florida, shingles must handle heat, humidity, and storms without cracking or curling.

Lifespan

Some shingles last 15 years. Others last 30 years or more.

Cost vs. Value

Cheaper shingles may save money now but cost more later in repairs.

Warranty

Better shingles usually come with stronger warranties.

Types of Roofing Shingles Explained

Let’s break down the most common types in a simple way.

3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

These are the most basic shingles.

Pros:

• Lowest cost

• Easy to install

Cons:

• Thinner

• Shorter lifespan (15–20 years)

• Not great for Florida storms

They work, but they are not the best long-term option in hot climates.

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles

These are thicker and more durable than 3-tab shingles.

Pros:

• Longer lifespan (20–30 years)

• Better wind resistance

• More attractive look

Cons:

• Higher cost than 3-tab

For many homeowners, architectural shingles offer the best balance of price and performance.

👉 They are commonly recommended for residential roofing

Impact-Resistant Shingles

These shingles are designed to handle harsh weather.

Pros:

• Strong resistance to wind and impact

• Better protection during storms

• May help lower insurance costs

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

These are a great choice for areas with frequent storms.

Best Roofing Shingles for Florida Homes

Florida homes face challenges that other states don’t.

Roofs here deal with:

• Intense sunlight

• Heavy rain

• High humidity

• Strong winds during storm season

Because of this, the best shingles for Florida homes are usually:

• Architectural shingles

• Impact-resistant shingles

They last longer and protect better in extreme weather.

Florida’s sun alone can shorten a roof’s life, which is why material choice matters so much.

How Long Do Roofing Shingles Last?

Shingle lifespan depends on the type you choose.

• 3-tab shingles: 15–20 years

• Architectural shingles: 20–30 years

• Impact-resistant shingles: 25–30+ years

In Florida, shingles may not last as long as the national average if they aren’t well maintained.

This connects directly with roof lifespan planning, which we explain in detail here:
How long does a roof last.

Are More Expensive Shingles Worth It?

Many homeowners ask this question.

The answer is often yes.

More expensive shingles usually mean:

• Fewer repairs

• Better protection

• Longer lifespan

Cheaper shingles might save money today, but stronger shingles often save money over time by avoiding leaks and damage.

Signs Your Shingles Are Wearing Out

No shingle lasts forever. Here are common signs that shingles may be failing:

• Curling or cracking shingles

• Missing shingles

• Granules collecting in gutters

• Leaks or water stains

• Dark streaks or algae growth

If you see these signs, it’s important to act early.

Choosing the Right Shingles for Your Home

The best shingles for your home depend on:

• Your budget

• Your home’s design

• Florida’s climate

• How long you plan to stay in the home

A professional can help match the right shingles to your specific needs. That’s why working with experts in professional roofing services matters.

Why Professional Installation Matters

Even the best shingles can fail if they are installed the wrong way.

Poor installation can lead to:

• Early leaks

• Shorter roof lifespan

• Warranty issues

Working with a licensed roofing contractor helps make sure shingles are installed correctly and last as long as possible.

Why Experience Matters When Choosing Roofing Shingles

Choosing shingles isn’t just about reading product labels. Real-world experience matters.

At JA Edwards of America, our team has installed and inspected thousands of roofs across Florida. We’ve seen which shingles hold up best against heat, rain, and storms — and which ones fail early.

This hands-on experience allows us to guide homeowners toward smarter choices that protect their homes and budgets long-term.

Why Our GAF Master Elite® Certification Matters

At JA Edwards of America, we don’t just install roofs — we partner with the best manufacturers in the world to bring top-quality products and peace of mind to every project we complete. One of the ways we do that is by being certified as a GAF Master Elite® contractor.

This certification is not handed out to just anyone. GAF Master Elite® is the highest level of certification offered by GAF, the largest roofing materials manufacturer in North America, and fewer than 2% of roofing contractors nationwide achieve this status.

Being GAF Master Elite® means we meet strict requirements for licensing, insurance, training, and customer satisfaction, and that we are continually updated on the best roofing products and installation techniques in the industry.

One of the biggest benefits of this certification is that it allows us to offer industry-leading warranties on GAF roofing products, including enhanced coverage like the Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty, which can protect your roof materials for up to 50 years and workmanship for up to 25 years when installed as a complete system.

This certification also gives you confidence that we are trained to install GAF’s best shingles and roofing components the right way, helping your new roof withstand Florida’s heat, storms, and humidity.

You can learn more about what GAF Master Elite® means and the warranties available here: GAF – How to Choose a GAF Roofer

FAQ: Best Roofing Shingles

What are the best shingles for hot climates?

Architectural and impact-resistant shingles perform best in hot, sunny climates like Florida.

Are architectural shingles better than 3-tab?

Yes. They are thicker, stronger, and last longer.

Do impact-resistant shingles lower insurance costs?

In some cases, yes. Some insurance companies offer discounts.

How often should shingles be inspected?

At least once per year and after major storms.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the best roofing shingles?
For most Florida homes, architectural or impact-resistant shingles offer the best protection, value, and lifespan.

Choosing the right shingles now can prevent expensive repairs later. If you’re unsure which option is best for your home, scheduling a professional evaluation is the smartest next step.

You can schedule a roof inspection to get clear answers and expert guidance