It's the most important part of any roofing system, but the only thing many people know about roofing shingles is that they are available in different colors. While color is important for the overall look of your home, the more you know about shingles, the better you will be able to get the best roof for your home.

The first thing you should know about shingles is that they are not all created equal. Roofing shingles are made from a variety of different materials. Asphalt shingles are the most common, usually the least expensive and definitely the most versatile type of shingle. Asphalt shingles have a fiberglass base with a layer of asphalt applied over the base. The asphalt layer is covered with a coating of ceramic granules to protect it from roof traffic and the elements. It's the ceramic granules that give shingles their color.

Newer fiberglass based shingles have multiple layers laminated together for added durability and a greater variety of shingle designs beyond the traditional flat, three-tab design.

All roof shingles are rated according to their warranteed lifespan. Asphalt shingles have a wide range of ratings, generally from 15 years to over 50 years. Usually, a shingle with a longer lifespan will be more expensive than a shingle with a shorter lifespan.

Asphalt shingles are also rated for wind resistance and, if you live in a windy area, you should make sure you use shingles with a higher wind resistance rating. Algae can grow on shingles, especially in moist climates. If algae is a problem in your area, look for algae resistant shingles.

Wooden shingles are a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a distinctive rustic look to their homes. Aside from its unique appearance, wood shingles have a number of other benefits. Wood shingles are made almost exclusively from red cedar, which has a natural resistance to insects that can damage other types of shingles.

Cedar is also very water resistant, which prevents algae from growing. Even though wooden shingles can be over a half-inch thick, they are relatively lightweight and are easy to carry and handle.

Wooden shingles come in a variety of styles, usually based on the length of the shingle and the way the exposed end of the shingle is cut and finished.

The main drawback to wooden shingles is their lifespan, which is generally from 15 to 30 years. By comparison, asphalt shingles can last over 50 years.

By far the most durable roofing shingles are made of slate. If installed properly, a slate roof can last well over a hundred years. Usually the first things to wear out on a slate shingled roof are the metal fasteners, like nails, which corrode and fail before any problems arise with the slate shingles.

Their longevity makes slate the most expensive roofing shingles. Because of the high price, they are not as common as asphalt or wooden shingled roofs, so a slate shingles are a mark of distinction for any home.

Price isn't the only drawback to a slate roof. Slate shingles are heavier than any other type of roofing shingles. Even if you can afford a price that is around ten times higher than asphalt shingles, you might need to reinforce your roof trusses and deck to support a slate roof.

With laminated asphalt shingles now very closely imitating the look of slate shingles, even homeowners who can afford slate are second-guessing the idea of paying so much more for something that will likely out live them and their homes.

While metal roofing has been around for a number of years, it has enjoyed a recent revival in popularity due to new styles that very closely imitate the look of wooden and slate shingles. Metal shingles have a number of advantages that have contributed to their resurgence. Metal is versatile and available in a variety of styles and colors. Most metal shingles have a basic warranty that is equal to the highest asphalt shingle warranty of 50 years or more.

Metal shingles hold up well against all types of weather, wind and rain. Insects and algae are not a problem. Metal shingles are generally maintenance free because they cannot curl, split, peel or crack ? symptoms that can reduce the lifespan of other shingle materials.

However, metal shingles can be tricky to install, so you will probably need a professional installer. Metal can also cost more than asphalt and wood, so you need to weigh the advantages against the extra cost.

Of course, there are a number of other roofing options beyond shingles, including copper roofing and clay tiles. Regardless of the roofing material and style you choose, it pays to find out as much as you can about the options available to you.

DiGiorgi Roofing has been installing shingles on Connecticut roofs for over 75 years.