For most North Carolina homes, the best shingle is an architectural asphalt shingle. It is thicker than 3-tab, usually carries higher wind ratings, and lasts longer on the InterNACHI life chart. In our humid weather, an algae-resistant version is worth asking for.
What are the main kinds of shingles?
| 3-tab | Architectural | Designer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Flat, even rows | Thick, layered, shadowed | Made to look like slate or wood shake |
| Weight | Lightest | Heavier | Heaviest |
| Typical life (InterNACHI) | About 20 years | About 30 years | Varies by product |
| Wind ratings | Lower | Usually higher | Usually higher |
| Cost | Least | More | Most |
| Best for | Hard to find now | Most homes | Homes going for a high-end look |
Our post on architectural vs 3-tab shingles goes deeper on those two.
What does North Carolina weather mean for shingles?
Heat
Charlotte averages a high of 90.3°F in July, based on National Weather Service normals. Heat and sun are what age asphalt shingles most. A thicker shingle and good attic airflow both help. Shingle makers care about attic airflow too. GAF says a roof without enough attic ventilation is not covered under its warranty.
Humidity and algae
Those black streaks on older roofs are algae. It grows well in humid places. All the big brands sell algae-resistant shingles: GAF StainGuard, Owens Corning StreakGuard, and CertainTeed StreakFighter. The streaks are mostly a looks problem, but a cleaner roof looks better for longer.
Wind
Our area gets strong summer storms, and storms like Helene in 2024 brought hours of high gusts. Wind ratings depend on the shingle and on the install. GAF, for example, ties its higher wind coverage to its starter strip and the right nailing. A good install matters as much as the shingle.
Hail
Hail in North Carolina peaks in May, says the NC State Climate Office. A NOAA study found the hail hot spot in our region is up in the mountains and foothills, not here in Gaston County. Hail still happens here. It just is not the main thing that wears out most roofs in our area.
Are Class 4 impact shingles worth it?
Class 4 is the top score on the UL 2218 test, where steel balls are dropped on the shingle. Choices include Owens Corning Duration FLEX and CertainTeed Landmark ClimateFlex, and GAF has a Class 4 line too.
What to know:
- They are tougher. They hold up better to hits than a standard shingle.
- They are not hail proof. Class 4 is a test score, not a promise.
- Read the warranty. GAF's own fine print says hail damage is not covered under its limited warranty, even on its Class 4 shingles.
- They cost more. Ask for a price both ways and decide what fits your budget.
For most homes in Gaston County, a standard architectural shingle is a solid choice. An impact shingle is an upgrade, not a must.
Which brand is best?
GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed all make good architectural shingles. We compare them side by side in GAF vs Owens Corning vs CertainTeed. We usually install GAF Timberline shingles. We also install Owens Corning.
Does shingle color matter?
Mostly it is about looks. You pick the color, or we match your old roof. If you have an HOA, check with them first. Many want to approve the color. We can send you the shingle name and color for your form.
What matters as much as the shingle?
- A full tear-off, so bad wood gets found and replaced. See tear-off vs roof-over.
- The right nailing and starter strip, done the way the maker says.
- Good attic airflow.
- A roofer who stands behind the work. Ours is a 5-year workmanship warranty, plus the shingle maker's warranty on materials.
Not sure what you have now?
Book a free roof inspection. A roofer gets on your roof, takes photos and video, and texts them to you. Then we can talk about what shingle fits your house and your budget. Learn more about our roof replacement process.
Common questions
What is the best shingle for a house in North Carolina?
For most homes, an architectural asphalt shingle. It is thicker than 3-tab, usually has higher wind ratings, and lasts longer. In our humid weather, an algae-resistant version is worth asking for.
Are Class 4 shingles hail proof?
No. Class 4 is the top score on an impact test, so the shingles are tougher. But no shingle is hail proof, and some makers say hail damage is not covered under their warranty.
Do algae-resistant shingles matter here?
They help a roof stay free of black streaks longer. The streaks are mostly a looks problem, but algae grows well in our humid weather.
Which shingles do you install?
We usually install GAF Timberline shingles. We also install Owens Corning.
