Asphalt shingles are the most commonly sold shingles in the industry, and statistics show that they can be easily termed the most dominant variety on the roofing market.

Relatively cheaper than most other types of shingles, (roughly at around $0.80 per square foot) they are vastly used all across the USA and Canada. But, as far as costs of asphalt shingles are concerned, they would generally vary according to geographical location, altitude of a building, and slant of the roof.

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and designs and most are quite durable. Records say that these shingles can me easily maintained and repaired as well.

Broadly available in two basic types like organic and fiberglass, they can be further classified into a number of other types like the basic three-tab shingle, the no cutout shingle, the dimensional shingle, the angle-lap shingle, the interlocking shingle, and others that look like cedar or slate.

Organic shingles are mostly used in colder temperatures like in North America and Canada. Fiberglass shingles, on the other hand are popular in warmer temperatures like in the southern and western American states.

Before making one's choice of asphalt shingles, it is extremely important to know and decide what one will be buying. Proper budgeting, the climates of the place, slope of one’s roof, and other issues have to be carefully considered. The warranty of a particular product should also be reviewed and judged properly. It is always best to buy shingles that meet manufacturing standards perfectly. This may sometimes be heavier on one's pocketbook, but one should rather be safe than sorry.

Installation of asphalt shingles is fairly hassle-free. Although professional roofing experts should always be consulted, asphalt shingles maybe installed by the house owner himself, even if he isn't an expert. The shingles can be easily installed on any existing roof.

Asphalt shingles with their easy availability, durability, and fairly simple installation process, are quite naturally the most widely used and economically feasible roofing option for millions.