Asphalt roofing shingles cover most homes in Maryland, but that doesn’t mean homeowners always know why they’re so common. With so many names floating around, like architectural asphalt, three-tab, composition, and dimensional, it can feel like you’re trying to learn a new language before you even choose a roof. And when every brand claims to be “the best,” figuring out what actually matters gets tricky fast.
This information guide breaks everything down in a way that feels clear and easy to follow. No jargon. No guessing. Just helpful explanations about what asphalt shingles are, how they hold up in Maryland’s weather, and why they’ve stayed the most popular choice for so many years. Once the basics make sense, comparing shingle options becomes much simpler and far less boring.
Quick Facts About Asphalt Roofing Shingles
- Most common roofing material in the US
- Lifespan often ranges from 20 to 30+ years
- Installed cost usually ranges between mid-tier and budget-friendly levels
- Works well for a sloped roof in four-season climates
- Available in three-tab, architectural, and luxury styles
- Easy to repair when damaged, especially compared to other roofing materials
- Many color and design options
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are a layered roofing material designed to protect your home from wind, rain, and changing temperatures. Each shingle starts with a fiberglass mat that gets coated in asphalt, then topped with colored granules. The granules are what you see from the ground, but the asphalt layer underneath is what gives the shingle its waterproofing strength. Many modern shingles also include algae-resistant granules, which help prevent the dark streaks commonly seen on roofs in humid areas like Maryland.
There are several types of asphalt shingles, and the names often confuse homeowners.
- Three-tab shingles are the basic, budget-friendly option with a flat look.
- Architectural shingles are also called dimensional shingles because they have multiple layers that create depth and shadow lines.
- Luxury shingles are the premium version, built thicker and designed to mimic slate or wood.
All of these fall under the broader category of asphalt shingles, because the asphalt layer is what makes the system durable and weather resistant.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles offer strong value for Maryland homeowners. They balance cost, durability, and appearance while performing well in all seasons.
Cost Effective and Durable
Asphalt is a proven waterproofing material. Shingles handle thunderstorms, winter storms, and daily weather changes without trouble. Their layered design provides solid wind resistance. Even with their affordable price, asphalt shingles remain one of the toughest residential roofing material products available.
Multiple Designs and Colors
Asphalt shingles come in many colors, shapes, and styles. Some varieties mimic slate or wood for a more custom look. This range of options helps homeowners match siding, trim, and the overall style of their home. It also makes asphalt shingles a reliable choice for improving curb appeal.
Simple Installation and Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are easy to repair and maintain. Small repairs do not require specialized tools. Full installations should be handled by trained roofers, but homeowners appreciate the lower repair costs throughout the roof’s lifespan.
Asphalt Shingle Types Compared
Three Tab
- Cost: Lowest cost
- Durability: Thinner design
- Lifespan: 20-25 years
- Best Use Case: Budget roofing or simple structures
Architectural
- Cost: Mid to high
- Durability: Strong durability
- Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
- Best Use Case: Most Maryland homes
Luxury
- Cost: Highest cost
- Durability: Strong durability
- Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
- Best Use Case: High curb appeal or premium homes
Every manufacturer has its own version of these three types of asphalt shingles, each with different features, color, and warranty. Brands like CertainTeed, Owens Corning, and GAF offer unique blends of strength, weather protection, and visual design, so comparing the specs and warranty coverage is just as important as comparing the price.
How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last in Maryland?
Most asphalt shingles in Maryland last around 20 to 30 years or more, but the true lifespan depends on three key factors: installation quality, ventilation, and maintenance. It’s common to see a 25-year shingle need major repairs or full replacement around year 20, and a 50-year shingle fall short around year 30. The final lifespan always comes down to how well the roof was installed, how well the attic breathes, and how consistently the roof is maintained.
Initial Installation
A roof that is installed poorly from the start will age faster. Issues like exposed nails, improper flashing, and bad drainage in the valleys create ongoing problems that stack up over time and lead to early replacement.
Attic Ventilation
Ventilation is another major factor that many installers overlook. When the attic cannot release heat properly, temperatures climb, which causes shingles to blister and break down faster. Poor airflow shortens the life of even the best architectural shingles.
Maintenance
Maintenance also plays a major role. A roof that receives routine care often outlasts its expected lifespan. We have seen a 25-year shingle last nearly 28 years simply because the homeowner kept up with small repairs like replacing minor flashing pieces and securing loose tabs. Proper upkeep can add years to your roof and delay the need for a full roof replacement.
Understanding Warranties
These shingle warranty parameters can be confusing because the advertised lifespan does not always match the actual coverage. Many shingles are marketed as 25 or 50-year products. That number is only backed by a guarantee when the roof is installed by a certified contractor approved by the manufacturer. Without a certified installer, the warranty coverage from the manufacturer drops to basic coverage that lasts far fewer years.
Three-tab shingles: 25 years
Architectural shingles: 30-50 years depending on the line of shingles
Luxury: 50 years
Different components of the roof also carry different limited warranty qualifications. Some manufacturers, like GAF Timberline, advertise a 50-year shingle warranties but only cover the ridge caps for about 15 years. Ridge caps face the highest wind pressure, so their coverage period is shorter. This difference surprises many homeowners. A full roofing system warranty requires approved material, certified installation, and proper ventilation.
When choosing a warranty, keep in mind that the highest-tier options, such as enhanced system warranty like the Platinum Protection Warranty from Owens, include both material and labor coverage. This means that if your contractor ever goes out of business, the rights will still be honored by the manufacturer, and they will pay the labor costs for the repair. This level of protection is the safest option for long-term peace of mind.
Cost of Asphalt Shingles
The cost of installing new shingles depends on several factors, but most Maryland homes fall within a predictable price range. Shingled roofing remains one of the most affordable and reliable options, yet the final cost can shift based on the product you choose and the condition of your existing roof.
Most roof shingle pricing is by the “square,” which equals 100 square feet. In Maryland, the average cost typically ranges from $350 to $700 per square, depending on the shingle type, installation requirements, and the amount of prep work needed. Architectural shingles fall in the middle of that range, while luxury ones sit at the higher end.
Several key factors influence your total cost:
- Roof size: A larger roof requires more material and more time to install.
- Shingle type: Three-tab, architectural, and luxury, each coming with different price points and performance levels.
- Existing layers: Removing old layers adds labor and disposal costs.
- Roof pitch and complexity: Steeper or cut-up roofing takes longer to install and requires additional safety steps.
- Flashing needs: Chimneys, skylights, and wall intersections may require new flashing for proper waterproofing.
- Ventilation improvements: Upgrading ridge vents or adding soffit vents helps your roof last longer and may be required for warranty coverage.
- Damaged decking: Any soft or rotted wood underneath the roof must be replaced to ensure a stable installation.
No two homes are exactly alike, which is why ballpark price ranges only go so far. A simple roof with one story and a mild pitch will cost less than a steep multi-level home with several penetrations and valleys.
RoofPRO provides free online estimates so you know the exact cost for your home roof. We use satellite technology to measure the size of your roof, show you your options, and give you a price that includes everything from labor to material and warranty coverage.
Compare Shingles to Other Roofing Materials
Metal Roof vs. Shingles
Metal roofing delivers stronger long-term performance than asphalt shingles, especially in areas with high winds, heavy rain, or major temperature changes. A well-installed metal system can last 40 to 70 years. Most shingle roofing lasts 20 to 30 years depending on ventilation, installation, and routine care.
Metal also reflects more heat, which can help lower cooling costs in hot summers. It does not crack, curl, or lose granules over time. Shingles still remain the more affordable option and are easier to repair when small issues come up.
Homeowners often choose shingle for their price and wide range of shingle colors and styles. Metal is usually selected for long-term roof durability, lower maintenance, and better performance in tough weather.
Class 3 vs. Class 4 Shingles
Class 3 and Class 4 shingles are impact-rated products built to handle hail. The main difference is strength. Class 3 shingles hold up to a 1.75-inch steel ball. Class 4 shingles pass a tougher test using a 2-inch steel ball dropped from a higher point. This higher rating gives Class 4 shingles better protection against cracking, bruising, and granule loss during storms. Many insurance companies offer discounts for a Class 4 roof because they lower the risk of future claims. For homes in storm-heavy regions, Class 4 shingles often deliver the best long-term value on a roof.
Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels
Solar shingles blend into the roof and act as both roofing material and solar power generators. They offer a cleaner appearance and eliminate the need for large racks or panels mounted above your roof. However, solar shingles are generally more expensive and less efficient per square foot than traditional solar panels. Panels generate more energy, can be angled for better performance, and are easier to service or replace. Solar shingles are a better fit for homeowners prioritizing aesthetics or building a new roof, while panels remain the strongest option for maximizing energy production and reducing electricity costs.
Composite Shingles vs. Asphalt Shingles
Many homeowners get confused by the terms “composite shingles,” “composition shingles,” and “asphalt shingles,” because the words are often used interchangeably. Technically, all modern asphalt shingles are composition shingles. They are built from multiple layers: a fiberglass mat, asphalt, and protective mineral granules.
The confusion comes from the fact that “composite shingles” can also refer to high-end synthetic roofing made from engineered polymers and recycled material. These synthetic products are designed to mimic slate, cedar, or shake and offer greater impact, fire, and UV resistance than standard asphalt shingles.
So while both materials are “composite” in the literal sense, traditional asphalt shingles remain the economical, widely used choice for Maryland homeowners, and synthetic composite shingles sit in a separate premium category focused on appearance and long-term performance.
Local Expertise Built Over Two Decades
Maryland weather puts every roof to the test, from humid summers and heavy rain to winter freezes and surprise windstorms. RoofPRO has been protecting Maryland homes since 2004, and our crews have worked through every condition this climate can throw at a roofing system. That experience shapes how we inspect, repair, and replace a roof, because we know exactly how local weather shortens a roof’s lifespan when the work is not done correctly.
Certified to Install the Industry’s Top Shingle Systems
Our contractor team is trained and certified for both residential and commercial properties by major manufacturers like CertainTeed, Owens Corning, and Tamko. These partnerships matter more than most homeowners realize, because certified installers follow the standards that keep long-term warranties intact. When a roof is built to manufacturer specifications, it performs better and stays protected from day one.
We are Locally Owned and Operated
As locals throughout Maryland, we know what our roofs have to endure from month to month and year to year. We bring our local experience to bear by building and repairing roofs that are ready for anything, from severe summer weather and blistering sun to gusting blizzards, sub-zero temperatures, and beyond. Read more about our experience in the region here.
Exterior Services That Support Your Whole Home
In addition to our top-quality roofing services, we are proud to offer a wide range of exterior solutions to ensure your property is in good shape from the chimney down! Whether you need new siding, replacement windows, or you need your gutters repaired before winter sets in, our talented team has the solution for you.
Contact Us Today for a Free Estimate
To learn more about our industry-leading exterior services, including roof repair, installation, and replacement of asphalt shingles, contact us today to speak to a roofer and get a free estimate. We’ll work with you to determine your home improvement needs and develop a plan to meet them head-on!
Author Bio
Tim Taylor – Owner & Founder of RoofPRO
Tim Taylor began his roofing career in 2003 and founded RoofPRO in 2004 with a mission to fix the poor workmanship that often causes roof leaks. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, he’s earned elite credentials like CertainTeed’s ShingleMaster Wizard certification, HAAG inspection certifications, and OSHA safety training. His expertise in leak repair, flashing repair, and post-storm restoration has made RoofPRO one of Maryland’s most trusted roofing companies. Tim continues to lead with the same principle that built his reputation—roof it right the first time.