Asphalt Shingle Roofing: Choosing the Right Type

It Only Takes One Bad Storm to Realize Your Shingles Weren’t Built for Pittsburgh

The wind kicks up, the sky turns gray, and before you know it, your neighbor’s tarp-covered roof is the talk of the block. If you’ve ever spotted stray shingles in your yard or dealt with a suspicious ceiling stain after a heavy storm, you already know: roofing decisions hit differently here.

When it comes to Pittsburgh asphalt shingle roofing, making the right choice from the start can save you thousands (and plenty of stress) down the road. This shingle selection guide breaks down what really matters: materials, weather performance, cost, and what’s actually worth your investment.

You’ll walk away knowing:

• Which asphalt shingles hold up best in Pittsburgh’s wild weather
• What shingle types mean for cost, appearance, and long-term value
• How warranties, installation, and ventilation factor into the big picture
• What questions to ask before signing any roofing contract

Need expert help sorting it all out? New Look Exteriors can help.

Why Shingle Choice Matters in Pittsburgh Roofing Projects

Let’s not sugarcoat it — Pittsburgh gets all the weather: heavy snow, hail, ice storms, high winds, and a generous helping of freeze-thaw cycles. Those conditions are tough on roofs, especially older ones or homes that were built with cost-first materials.

So, if you’re in the market for a new roof (or wondering if a repair will hold), it helps to understand why the right asphalt shingles make all the difference here.

What to Know Before Picking an Asphalt Shingle Type

Roofing is one of those home upgrades where you don’t want to learn through trial and error. Knowing what goes into the decision — beyond just color and price — is what sets up a solid long-term result.

Budget Breakdown: What You’re Actually Paying For

• 3-Tab Shingles: Budget-friendly, but basic. Starts around $600 per square (100 sq. ft.)
• Architectural Shingles: The best balance of performance and cost for most Pittsburgh homes
• Impact-Resistant & Premium Shingles: Higher upfront cost, longer lifespan, and potential insurance discounts

Investing more upfront in materials that are designed for Pittsburgh weather often means fewer repairs, fewer stress calls, and a longer roof life.

Local Code & Climate Considerations

• Most Pittsburgh-area municipalities require a permit for a full roof replacement
• Our region (Zone 5) requires roofing systems that can handle snow load and wind uplift
• Attic ventilation is code-required for good reason — it prevents condensation and ice dams

Quality of Installation Is Just As Important

Here’s a truth not every roofer tells you: even the most expensive shingles will fail if they’re installed poorly. And in Pittsburgh, where conditions fluctuate fast, proper installation is everything.

That’s why at New Look Exteriors:

• We only use Owens Corning-certified roofing systems
• Every roof is backed by a 50-year non-prorated warranty
• We integrate insulation and ventilation so the system works as a whole

Your Shingle Selection Guide: Breaking Down the Options

There are four main types of asphalt shingles used in the Pittsburgh market. Here’s how to tell which one fits your home (and your priorities).

3-Tab Asphalt Shingles: Cheap and Straightforward, But Not Built to Last

These are often found on older homes or as base options in builder-grade new construction. They’ll get the job done — for a little while.

Good for: Short-term property ownership or budget-only projects.
Not so good for: Withstanding winter storms, hail, or 20+ years of Pittsburgh weather.

• Wind resistance: ~60 mph
• Lifespan: 15–20 years
• Warranty: Basic, often prorated

Architectural Shingles: The Best All-Around Choice for Pittsburgh Roofs

Also known as dimensional shingles, these are thicker, better looking, and far more durable. Most Pittsburgh homeowners choose these — and for good reason.

Why they work well here:

• Wind rating up to 130 mph
• Holds up against heavy snow and hail
• Improved insulation and ventilation performance
• 30–50 year lifespan with proper installation

We install Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration architectural shingles, which are ideal for Pittsburgh homes — durable, attractive, and certified for performance.

Premium or Luxury Shingles: High-End Look with Serious Durability

Want the appearance of slate or cedar shake without the weight, upkeep, or cost? That’s where premium shingles shine.

Best for: Historic homes, high-end remodels, or homeowners who want their roof to make a statement (and last decades).
Expect: Longer installation time, higher material cost, and impressive curb appeal.

Impact-Resistant Shingles: Storm-Ready and Smart Long-Term

If you’ve dealt with hail damage or are just tired of scheduling repairs every spring, impact-rated shingles are a smart upgrade.

Here’s why:

• Rated Class 4 for hail resistance (highest possible)
• Lower risk of granule loss over time
• May qualify for insurance premium discounts
• Built to handle flying debris during summer storms

Deep Dive: What You’re Really Getting with Each Type

How New Look Exteriors Makes Your Roof Last Longer

We don’t just install shingles — we install complete roofing systems that include:

• Proper attic ventilation to prevent condensation and ice dams
• Insulation upgrades to improve energy efficiency and roof performance
• Locally sourced accessories (like standing seam accents from Goodview Metals in Apollo, PA) to boost function and curb appeal

We’re Owens Corning Preferred Contractors, which means you get:

• Access to the best warranties in the industry
• Full documentation for insurance or resale
• Roofing crews that know Pittsburgh’s building codes and climate conditions