Short answer
Traditional 3-tab shingles have been discontinued. Today the choice is between architectural shingles, which are thicker, hold up better in wind and ice and carry 30-year to lifetime manufacturer warranties, and designer shingles, the thickest premium option, textured to look like slate or wood with a lifetime warranty.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roof in Toronto. They are cost-effective, handle Canada’s temperature swings well and come in a wide range of colours and styles. The main decision is which type of shingle to use.
Traditional 3-tab (discontinued)
For years this was the most affordable option for sloped roofs. It has a flat, smooth look that suits low-pitch roofs and usually came with a 25 or 30-year manufacturer warranty. It has been discontinued, so if your roof has 3-tab shingles, a repair may need a close match from another product.
Architectural shingles
The standard choice for most homes today.
- An extra layer of thickness for strength and durability
- Bonds to the roof better than 3-tab shingles
- More resistant to ice and snow, and harder to tear away in high winds
- Priced a little higher than 3-tab
- 30, 40, 50-year or lifetime manufacturer warranty
Designer shingles
The premium shingle.
- The thickest and most durable shingle option
- A textured, layered look that simulates the depth of natural slate or wood shakes
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Designer shingles are a good middle ground if you love the look of slate but the budget or the roof structure doesn’t suit the real thing.
Colour and shape
Once you’ve picked the type, you choose a colour and texture. Colours range from greys and beiges to reddish and dark browns, plus blues and greens. Shape matters too: scalloped tabs suit Victorian homes, while square, slate-like shingles suit Colonial designs.
Our advice
For most Toronto homes we recommend a quality architectural shingle. Consider designer shingles if curb appeal is a priority or the house’s style calls for a slate or shake look. Whichever you choose, the manufacturer’s warranty covers the material and our written workmanship warranty covers the installation.