Composition Shingles: Buying & Care Guide
Shopping for roof shingles shouldn’t feel like decoding a foreign language. Yet here you are, staring at terms like “composition,” “composite,” and “asphalt,” wondering if they’re all the same thing.
Spoiler: they’re not. Stores use these words interchangeably, and that confusion costs homeowners money. This guide cuts through the marketing speak.
You’ll learn precisely what composition shingles are made of, where to buy them for the best price, and what else you need beyond just the shingles themselves.
We’ll also cover simple maintenance steps that add years to your roof’s life. By the end, you’ll shop with confidence instead of second-guessing every decision.
What Are Composition Shingles?
Composition shingles are roofing materials made from multiple layers pressed together. They typically include a fiberglass mat base, asphalt coating, and mineral granules on top.
When people talk about a composition roof, they usually mean the same thing as asphalt shingles. Homeowners prefer them because they balance cost, durability, and style choices.
You can find them in almost any color or texture. Here’s where it gets confusing: the term “composition” is sometimes mistaken for “composite shingles,” which are actually synthetic polymer products.
Knowing the difference helps you pick the right material for your home and budget.
Composition Roof vs Composite Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles
Many homeowners mix up these three terms when shopping for a new roof. Let’s break down what each one actually means so you can make the right choice.
| Feature | Asphalt Shingles | Composition Shingles | Composite Shingles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Fiberglass + asphalt | Same as asphalt (just another name) | Synthetic polymers, recycled materials |
| Lifespan | 15-30 years | 15-30 years | 30-50+ years |
| Cost | Budget-friendly | Budget-friendly | Premium pricing |
| Availability | Widely available everywhere | Widely available everywhere | Specialty dealers only |
Asphalt and composition shingles are the same product with different names. Composite shingles are a different category, made from synthetic materials, and they cost more but last longer.
What Composition Shingles Are Made Of and How They Work
Understanding what’s inside your roof shingles helps you spot quality differences. Here’s what makes up a standard composition shingle and why each layer matters.
- Fiberglass Mat: This forms the base layer and gives the shingle its strength and shape.
- Asphalt Coating: The waterproofing layer that keeps rain and moisture out of your home.
- Mineral Granules: These protect against UV rays, add color, and improve fire resistance ratings.
- Sealant Strip: A sticky strip that bonds shingles together once the heat from the sun activates it.
Why Standards Matter When Purchasing
Not all composition shingles meet the same quality benchmarks. Look for products that comply with ASTM D3462. This standard ensures your shingles can handle wind, weather, and UV exposure.
Buying shingles that meet this requirement means you’re getting a tested, reliable product rather than guessing about quality.
Where to Buy Composition Shingles in the US
Finding the right place to buy composition shingles can save you money and hassle. Here’s where homeowners and contractors shop for roofing materials across the country.
1. Home Depot (In-Store and Online)
Home Depot stocks major brands like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed at competitive prices. You can order online for delivery or in-store pickup, making it convenient for DIY projects.
2. Lowe’s (In-Store and Online)
Lowe’s carries similar brands and often runs promotions on composition shingles during spring and summer. Their online calculator helps estimate how many bundles you need.
3. Menards (Midwest Availability)
If you live in the Midwest, Menards offers solid pricing and frequent rebates. Their selection focuses on popular styles that work well in cold climates.
4. Local Roofing Supply Distributors (Best for Selection)
These specialty shops offer more color options and premium lines than big-box stores. Staff members can answer technical questions about installation and local building codes.
5. ABC Supply (Wholesale Roofing Distributor)
ABC Supply serves contractors but also sells to homeowners doing their own work. Prices drop when you buy in bulk, which works well for larger roofs.
6. Beacon Building Products (Contractor and Retail Sales)
Beacon focuses on professional-grade materials with expert support for installation questions. They stock both budget and premium composition shingles from all major manufacturers.
7. SRS Distribution (Roofing and Building Materials)
SRS provides contractor pricing with locations in most major cities. Their inventory includes standard three-tab and architectural styles.
8. CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning Dealer Locators
Each manufacturer has an online tool to find authorized dealers near you. Buying from certified dealers often gets you better warranty coverage.
9. Buying Through a Roofing Contractor (Often the Best Value)
Contractors buy at wholesale rates and can pass savings to you. They also handle delivery, storage, and waste disposal, which saves time and money.
10. Online Roofing Retailers and Delivery Options
Websites like BuildDirect and Roofing4US ship composition shingles directly to your home. Compare shipping costs carefully, as they can add up quickly for heavy materials.
11. Salvage Yards and Reuse Stores (For Small Repairs Only)
Habitat for Humanity ReStores sometimes have leftover shingles at steep discounts. This works for small patch jobs but not for matching existing roofs or full replacements.
How to Maintain Composition Shingles for a Longer Lifespan
Regular upkeep extends the life of your composition shingles and prevents small problems from becoming expensive repairs. Here’s how to protect your roof without damaging it.
1. Simple Inspection Cadence
Check your roof twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Look for curling edges, cracked shingles, or moss growth from ground level using binoculars.
If you spot issues, call a professional instead of climbing up yourself. Annual inspections catch problems early when fixes cost less.
2. Post-Storm Checklist
After heavy wind or hail, walk around your house and scan for damage. Look for shingle tabs that lifted or blew off completely. Check your gutters for excessive granule buildup, which means your composition shingles are wearing down.
Exposed nails can let water seep under the roof and cause leaks. Document any damage with photos for insurance claims before making repairs.
3. Cleaning Cautions
Pressure washing can blast away the protective granules on your composition roof. Use a garden hose with moderate pressure to rinse off debris instead.
For stubborn stains or moss, apply a roof-safe cleaning solution and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing gently. Never scrub shingles with a brush, as this removes granules and shortens their lifespan.
What Else to Buy With the Shingles?
Buying composition shingles alone won’t complete your roof project.
You need an underlayment to create a waterproof barrier beneath the shingles, with synthetic options that last longer than standard felt. Add ice and water shield for vulnerable spots like eaves and valleys.
Don’t forget starter strips for the first row, ridge caps for the peak, and proper ventilation components, such as ridge and intake vents, to prevent moisture buildup.
Drip edge protects fascia boards from water damage. Pick up step flashing for wall intersections and chimney flashing for penetrations.
Use roofing nails long enough to penetrate the deck, typically 1.25 inches for new construction. Keep roof sealant on hand to secure flashing and seal exposed nailheads. Buying everything at once saves trips and ensures you have compatible materials.
Final Thoughts
Composition shingles don’t have to be confusing anymore. You now know they’re the same as asphalt shingles, how they differ from composite products, and what makes a quality roof system.
You’ve got a complete shopping list and know where to find the best deals. Most importantly, you understand how simple maintenance protects your investment for decades.
Ready to move forward? Start by getting quotes from three local contractors who can source materials at wholesale prices. Compare their estimates against DIY costs from the retailers we mentioned.
Have questions about your specific roof? Drop them in the comments below, and we’ll help you figure out the best approach.
