There are a number of different shingle types for a homeowner to choose from. A new roof is a big investment and you should weigh out all your options. You want to choose a roof that will last 15-20 years and hold up well. 

The most common roof types are:

• Asphalt 3 Tab Shingles – 3 tab asphalt shingles are the most affordable shingle to install but they are thinner, have an organic-mat paper base, and wear out more quickly than fiberglass or architectural shingles.
• Asphalt Architectural Shingles – Architectural shingles are a more durable asphalt shingle option in comparison to 3 tab asphalt shingles. They give off a sculpted look and have an extra laminate layer which contours them to look a bit more designed.
• BUR – Bult Up Roofing – These roof systems are commonly referred to as “tar and gravel” roofs. BUR systems generally are composed of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics that create a finished membrane.
• Coal & Tar Shingles – Both durable and waterproof, roofing tar is a versatile material. Typically, this material is a dark and oily mixture made from coal tar and petroleum byproducts.
• Cool Roof Aluminum Coated Shingles – A cool roof is one that has been designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. Cool roofs can be made of a highly reflective type of paint, a sheet covering, or highly reflective tiles or shingles.
• Clay Shingles – Also considered a “cool roofing” type of roof shingle. Clay roofing tiles are also called architectural terracotta clay tiles.
• Concrete Shingles – These tiles are made from marble and Portland cement and natural mineral pigments.
• Copper Roofing Shingles – The metal is highly resistant to fire, hail, and mildew.
• Composite Plastic Shingles – They’re a way to get more life out of plastics and other materials that would simply be tossed out in most instances so they are a great environmentally friendly roof replacement option.
• Fiber Cement Shingles – Fiber cement is a durable material made from sand, cellulose fibers, and cement, which is where manufacturers reinforce cement with fiber such as cardboard and similar items.
• Green (Vegetation Covered) Roofing – A green roof is a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproofing system that is installed on top of a flat or slightly–sloped roof.
• Metal Roofing Shingles – Metal roof shingles are relatively easily to install and they are very lightweight, making them a good option for homes with a roof system that simply can’t support heavier options.
• Rubber EPDM Roof Shingles – Rubber shingles are simple to install and doesn’t require much maintenance, but it is a bit more expensive than asphalt shingles.
• Simulated Slate Tiles – Slate roof tiles are durable, fireproof, waterproof and no two pieces are alike because it’s a natural product. 
• Slate Tiles – late shingles are thin but very heavy when the whole roof is made out of them. Slate has a natural beauty to it that many people appreciate, but slate roof shingles do not really vary in color or looks.
• TPO Rubber Roofing – TPO eases cooling costs due to UV resistance and reduces carbon emissions as well.
• Tile Roof Shingles – Tile roofing shingles are one of the most durable roofing types you can install, but that’s only the case when the tiles are installed properly. When placed on a mortar bed, the tiles are known to slip off after just a decade or so.
• Wood Shingles – There are two style options of wooden roofs called wood shake or wood shingles. The difference between the two is that wood shingles are cut into perfect shapes while wood shakes are sawn off and hand-split to give it a more rustic look.

It’s hard to estimate exactly how long your roof will last. It depends on the weather, type of roof, and if it’s installed properly. So if you’re planning on installing a new roof, it’s important to hire a professional contractor to take on the job for you. It will save you money in the long run.