Choosing the best roof shingles for your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. Your roof plays a critical role in protecting your property, boosting curb appeal, and improving long-term value. But with so many materials and brands on the market, selecting the best roofing shingles can feel confusing.
To help you make the right choice, the experts at United Developers have prepared a complete guide that covers shingle materials, top-performing brands, and expert tips. Whether you want durability, beauty, or affordability, this guide will help you find the best shingles for roof protection in any Maryland climate.
Types of Shingle Materials
Before you compare brands, it’s important to understand the main roofing materials used across the U.S. Each material offers unique advantages in cost, design, strength, and longevity.
1. Asphalt Shingles
The most popular roofing material in America, asphalt shingles are budget-friendly, easy to install, and available in several styles:
- 3-Tab Shingles: Flat, lightweight, and affordable
- Architectural Shingles: Thicker, stronger, and more visually appealing
- Luxury Shingles: Designed to mimic slate or cedar with premium durability
Asphalt shingles remain the preferred choice for most homes due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility.
2. Wood Shingles
Made from cedar, redwood, or pine, wood shingles deliver a warm, natural aesthetic. They offer excellent insulation and an elegant, timeless look. However, they require maintenance and are not ideal for humid or fire-prone regions.
3. Composite (Synthetic) Shingles
Crafted from polymer blends, composite shingles mimic slate or wood but offer superior resistance to impact, algae, and moisture. They are lightweight, long-lasting, and ideal for homeowners wanting premium looks without heavy maintenance.
4. Metal Roof Shingles
Metal shingles are extremely durable and energy-efficient. Available in aluminum, steel, and copper, they provide modern style and exceptional longevity often 40 to 70+ years. Great for regions with extreme temperatures or severe storms.
5. Slate & Slate-Style Shingles
Natural slate is one of the most luxurious and longest-lasting roofing materials. Although heavy and expensive, homeowners seeking premium style often choose synthetic slate shingles (like DaVinci) for similar aesthetics with lower cost and weight.
Understanding these materials will help you make an informed choice as you explore the 7 best roof shingles available today.



Top 7 Roof Shingles for Style & Strength
Choosing the right shingle material is an essential step in building a strong, beautiful, and long-lasting roof. To help you make a confident decision, here are the top seven roofing shingles for performance, style, and durability.
1. GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles
GAF is North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, and their Timberline HDZ shingles consistently rank among the best roof shingles for performance and value.
Why They Stand Out
- LayerLock™ technology for unmatched wind resistance
- Dimensional, attractive design
- Strong warranties at an affordable cost
- Excellent availability across the U.S.
Perfect for homeowners seeking high-quality architectural shingles without luxury pricing.
2. Owens Corning Duration Shingles
Known for impressive strength and beautiful color options, Owens Corning Duration shingles are a favorite among roofers and homeowners.
Key Benefits
- SureNail® strip for superior fastening
- Vibrant color blends and design options
- 10-year algae resistance
- Excellent durability in windy regions
An ideal blend of style and structural strength.
3. CertainTeed Landmark Shingles
CertainTeed produces some of the heaviest, most durable asphalt shingles in the market. Landmark architectural shingles are built for reliability and long-term protection.
Top Features
- Heavyweight material for enhanced impact resistance
- StreakFighter® algae protection
- Class A fire rating
- Lifetime transferable warranty
A great option for homeowners who want sturdy, high-performance shingles.
4. Malarkey Legacy Shingles
If you prefer environmentally conscious roofing, Malarkey Legacy shingles are one of the best roofing shingles available today.
What Makes Them Exceptional
- Rubberized asphalt for enhanced flexibility and durability
- Class 4 impact rating (highest level)
- Smog-reducing granules
- Great performance in hail-prone areas
Best for regions with frequent storms and strict environmental standards.
5. Atlas Pinnacle Pristine Shingles
Known for their bold appearance and algae-fighting technology, Atlas Pinnacle Pristine shingles stand out for long-lasting curb appeal.
Key Highlights
- 3M Scotchgard™ lifetime algae protection
- 130 mph wind resistance
- Wide selection of dramatic colors
- Excellent performance in humid and coastal climates
These shingles remain clean and streak-free for years.
6. Tamko Heritage Shingles
Tamko Heritage shingles combine affordability and aesthetics, offering a wood-shake appearance at a budget-friendly price.
Main Advantages
- Moisture-resistant laminated design
- Attractive, natural-looking granule colors
- 30-year limited warranty
- Strong performance for the cost
A dependable choice for homeowners who want good quality without premium pricing.
7. DaVinci Slate Shingles
DaVinci’s engineered slate shingles represent the luxury end of roofing materials.
Why Homeowners Love Them
- High-grade polymer construction
- Stunning similarity to natural slate
- Class A fire rating and Class 4 impact resistance
- Fade-resistant and long-lasting
A top-tier choice for homeowners wanting maximum beauty and durability.
Choose the Best Roof Shingles for Your Home
United Developers recommends considering the following before making a final decision:
- Your Climate: High-wind regions need strong nail-hold technology. Humid areas need algae resistance.
- Energy Efficiency: Light-reflective shingles help reduce cooling costs.
- Your Budget: Architectural shingles cost more but last longer and look premium.
- Warranty Coverage: Always check if your shingles include a lifetime limited warranty.
- Professional Installation: Even the best roofing shingles can fail without proper installation. Choose a trusted roofing contractor.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best roof shingles ensures long-term beauty, protection, and value for your home. Whether you prefer affordability, sustainability, or luxury appeal, the seven options above represent the best roofing shingles trusted across the Maryland.
At United Developers, our roofing experts help homeowners select the best shingles for roof durability, curb appeal, and climate performance. Whether you’re planning a full replacement or weighing materials, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.


