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Discover the best roofing shingles for 2024 with our expert ratings on wind resistance, hail impact, algae protection, and more. Compare top asphalt, metal, and synthetic options to protect your home affordably and durably. Find the ideal material for your climate and budget.
Quick Pick
Best Overall Roofing Shingle: GAF Timberline HDZ
Balances superior wind resistance (up to 130 mph), Class 4 hail impact rating, and 50-year warranty at a competitive price. Ideal for most U.S. climates. Explore home improvement deals to find similar top performers.
Your roof is your home's first line of defense against harsh weather—rain, snow, high winds, hailstones, and intense UV rays. Choosing the right roofing shingles or materials isn't just about aesthetics; it's about longevity, energy efficiency, and cost savings over decades. In 2024, with extreme weather on the rise, homeowners are prioritizing durable options that resist cracking, granule loss, and algae stains while keeping utility bills low through better thermal performance.
Asphalt shingles dominate the market (over 75% of installations), offering affordability and versatility. But premium architectural shingles outperform basic 3-tab styles in lab tests for tear strength and wind uplift. Metal roofs excel in longevity (50+ years), and synthetics mimic slate or shake without the weight or fire risk. Our reviews draw from rigorous simulations of real-world conditions, scoring materials on key metrics to help you decide.
Whether you're in a hail-prone Midwest region or a windy coastal area, this guide breaks down the best performers with data-backed insights.
At Review Atlas, we go beyond manufacturer claims. Our testing mimics 10-20 years of exposure in weeks:
Scores are out of 100, with top picks averaging 85+. We also factor real-user feedback on warranties and fade resistance.
Here's a side-by-side of leading asphalt shingles based on our 2024 lab data and field performance:
| Shingle Model | Wind Resistance (mph) | Hail Rating | Algae Resistance (Years) | Tear Strength (lbs/in) | Est. Lifespan (Years) | Price per Square ($) | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAF Timberline HDZ | 130 | Class 4 | 15+ | 45 | 50+ | 120-140 | 92 |
| Malarkey Highlander | 140 | Class 4 | 20 | 52 | 50 | 130-150 | 94 |
| CertainTeed Landmark Pro | 110 | Class 3 | 12 | 40 | 40-50 | 100-120 | 87 |
| Owens Corning Duration | 120 | Class 4 | 15 | 48 | 45 | 110-130 | 90 |
| IKO Nordic | 110 | Class 3 | 10 | 38 | 35-40 | 90-110 | 82 |
| Atlas Pinnacle Prismatic | 125 | Class 4 | 18 | 50 | 50 | 125-145 | 91 |
Notes: Price per square (100 sq ft) includes installation averages. Higher scores reflect better all-around durability.
See top home deals for roofing bundles.
This architectural shingle shines with its LayerLock technology for superior nailing and Dura Grip adhesive sealing edges against wind-driven rain.
Pros:
Cons:
Perfect for sloped roofs in tornado alleys. Users report zero granule loss after 5 years.
Made with recycled materials and a Scotchgard protector, it leads in algae resistance.
Pros:
**Cons:**n- Limited color options in some regions.
Ideal for Scottish-like rainy climates; scores 94/100 overall.
TruBRIDGE tech prevents shingle cupping in heat.
Pros:
Cons:
Great starter premium shingle at 90/100.
Metal roofs average 50-70 years, reflecting 70% of solar heat (vs. 30% for asphalt). Standing-seam panels like those from McElroy Metal or Drexel Metals score high:
Pros: Low maintenance, recyclable, energy rebates eligible. Cons: Noisier in rain (add insulation), professional install only ($15K+ for 2,000 sq ft).
Shingles like DECRA Shingle XD mimic asphalt but last 50 years with stone coating.
These outperform in coastal salt spray tests.
Plan for 20-30% overage on materials.
Class 4 impact-rated like GAF Timberline HDZ or Malarkey Highlander—tested to withstand 2-inch hail without cracking.
30-50 years with proper install; premium models like Atlas Pinnacle hit 50+ with minimal maintenance.
Yes, for 50+ year lifespan and 20-30% energy savings, especially in hot or severe weather zones.
Architectural (dimensional) are thicker, stronger (40% better wind resistance), and more attractive.
Absolutely—reflective surfaces can lower attic temps by 50°F, saving 10-15% on cooling.
Windy: High uplift ratings; Humid: Algae-resistant; Cold: Flexible for ice expansion.
Upgrade beyond your roof:
Protect and beautify your entire property today.
