The best shingles are the ones that will work well with your home’s overall style and architectural preferences. They should be durable, aesthetically pleasing, and low-maintenance.

Durability: Look for a product that has been rated highly in terms of durability. Shingles with high ratings tend to be more resistant to wind and hail damage, which can reduce your insurance premiums.

Impact Resistance: The best shingles for wind and hail protection should also have top impact resistance ratings. Consumers Reports tested multilayered shingles against 60-mile-per-hour winds and moderate hail and debris impacts, and found that the shingles with the top impact ratings were also much more durable than those with lesser ratings.

Cost: You should look for shingles that are priced within your budget. This can help you save money on installation costs and keep your energy bills lower.

Design: Consider shingles that are designed to look like wood, slate, or other natural materials. These can add character to your roof and make it stand out from the rest of your neighborhood.

Colors: Choosing the right colors is important to the look of your home. Some shingles come in a variety of shades, while others may only be available in specific hues.

Quality: Look for shingles that have been manufactured to high standards, and made using industry best practices. This will prevent your shingles from becoming damaged or discolored, and it will ensure they last longer.

If you’re looking for a natural, rustic look for your roof, consider cedar shake shingles. These hand-split shingles mimic the look of real tree shakes without the expensive maintenance.