Comparing Asphalt, Architectural, and Designer Shingles: Which Is Right for Your Home?

May 1, 2025

Choosing the Perfect Shingles for Your Roof Replacement

When it comes to replacing your roof, aesthetics, durability, and long-term value should guide your decisions—especially when investing in a high-end home exterior. At Paese Construction, we specialize in full roof replacements using premium materials from industry leaders such as GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed. One of the most important choices you’ll face is selecting the type of shingles best suited to your home. Today, we’re breaking down the three primary options: asphalt, architectural, and designer shingles.

Asphalt Shingles: The Reliable Classic

Standard asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the U.S. They’re relatively affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors. These shingles are made of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules, offering decent protection against the elements.


While basic asphalt shingles do the job for many homes, they generally have a shorter lifespan (15–20 years) and less aesthetic impact than higher-end alternatives. For clients seeking premium performance and enhanced curb appeal, we often recommend exploring options beyond standard asphalt.

Architectural Shingles: A Step Up in Style and Strength

Architectural shingles—also known as dimensional shingles—are a significant upgrade in both appearance and performance. These shingles are composed of multiple layers of asphalt fused together, which creates a thicker, more durable shingle with a three-dimensional look.



Brands like GAF’s Timberline HDZ®, Owens Corning Duration®, and CertainTeed Landmark® offer some of the best architectural shingles on the market. Not only do they resist wind uplift, algae growth, and UV degradation more effectively than standard shingles, but they also add depth and shadow to your roof, giving it a high-end architectural look.


Architectural shingles are a favorite among our clients who want a luxury exterior without the investment of premium designer shingles.

Designer Shingles: Where Performance Meets Luxury

If you’re looking for the pinnacle of roofing sophistication, designer shingles are the answer. These shingles are engineered to mimic the appearance of natural slate, cedar shake, or other high-end materials—without the weight, cost, or maintenance challenges.


Designer shingles from CertainTeed’s Grand Manor®, Owens Corning’s Berkshire®, or GAF’s Glenwood® and Camelot® II collections offer dramatic texture, bold colors, and unmatched curb appeal. Beyond their visual advantages, these shingles often boast superior impact resistance, extended warranties, and enhanced protection against extreme weather.


At Paese Construction, we often recommend designer shingles to homeowners looking to make a statement, increase home value, or restore the historical aesthetic of their property.

Which Shingle Is Right for You?

Choosing the right roofing material depends on your budget, design goals, and long-term plans for your home. Here’s a quick guide to help:

  • Asphalt shingles: Budget-conscious, shorter-term solution for basic protection.
  • Architectural shingles: Mid-range investment with a high-end appearance and durability.
  • Designer shingles: Premium roofing solution for homeowners prioritizing aesthetics, value, and long-term performance.

At Paese Construction, we don’t just install shingles—we craft custom roofing solutions tailored to your home’s architecture and your unique vision. Our expert team works closely with you to choose the right brand, material, and color to complement your home’s exterior.

Built With the Best

We are proud to use only top-tier brands like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and others known for their superior quality and warranty protection. Whether you want timeless elegance or modern resilience, we have the product lineup to match.


Ready for a Roofing Upgrade?

If you’re considering a roof replacement, let the experts at Paese Construction guide you. Contact us today for a consultation and discover how premium shingles can elevate your home’s style and value for years to come.

How Moisture Affects Roofing and Siding Systems Long-Term

May 27, 2026
Moisture is one of the most persistent threats to a home’s exterior. While major storms and visible leaks often receive the most attention, long-term moisture exposure can quietly affect roofing and siding systems for years before serious problems become obvious. In many cases, the damage develops gradually beneath the surface, making early warning signs easy to overlook.  At Paese Construction, we help homeowners understand how moisture affects exterior materials over time and why proactive maintenance and professional installation are so important for long-term home protection.

Why Roof Problems Often Start Long Before Leaks Appear

May 20, 2026
Many homeowners assume that roofing problems become obvious as soon as damage begins. In reality, roof deterioration often develops gradually and quietly over time. By the time water stains appear on ceilings or active leaks become noticeable, the underlying issue may have already existed for months or even years.  At Paese Construction, we regularly work with homeowners who are surprised to learn how long roofing damage can remain hidden before visible symptoms appear inside the home. Understanding how roofing systems age helps explain why early attention and professional evaluation are so important.

Why Investing in Better Materials Reduces Future Headaches

May 13, 2026
When planning a roof or siding replacement , one of the most common decisions homeowners face is how much to invest in materials. At first glance, it may seem practical to choose lower-cost options, especially when the exterior appears to be a straightforward replacement. However, material quality plays a significant role in how the home performs over time. What may seem like a cost-saving decision upfront can often lead to additional expenses and complications later.  At Paese Construction, the focus is on long-term performance. Investing in better materials is not just about appearance. It is about reducing the likelihood of future issues and creating a more reliable exterior system.

Why Your Roof and Siding Should Be Designed as One System

May 5, 2026
When homeowners think about exterior upgrades, roofing and siding are often treated as separate projects. One may be replaced years before the other, with decisions made independently based on immediate needs. While this approach may seem practical in the short term, it often overlooks a critical concept. A home’s exterior performs best when it is designed and installed as a unified system.  At Paese Construction, the focus is not simply on replacing materials. It is on creating an integrated exterior that delivers both performance and long-term value.

Why High-End Exterior Upgrades Make a Stronger First Impression

April 29, 2026
A home’s exterior is the first thing anyone sees, and that first impression forms quickly. Whether a property is being viewed by guests, neighbors, or potential buyers, its outward appearance communicates a great deal before anyone steps inside. High-end exterior upgrades, particularly roof and siding replacement, play a central role in shaping that impression.  At the core of this concept is curb appeal, a term often used but not always fully understood.

Why Homeowners Delay Roof Replacement and What It Leads To

April 21, 2026
Roof replacement is one of the most important exterior upgrades a homeowner can make, yet it is also one of the most commonly delayed. Unlike visible interior projects, roofing tends to remain out of sight and out of mind until a more obvious issue appears. This delay is understandable, but it often leads to outcomes that could have been avoided with earlier action.  Understanding why roof replacement is postponed and what that delay can lead to provides valuable perspective for making more informed decisions.

Why James Hardie Siding Is a Leading Choice for Exterior Upgrades

April 14, 2026
When homeowners consider a high-end exterior upgrade, siding plays a central role in both protection and appearance. While there are many siding options available, certain materials consistently stand out for their durability, design flexibility, and long-term performance. Among these, James Hardie siding has become a widely recognized choice for homeowners seeking a premium solution.  Understanding what sets this material apart can help guide decisions when planning a full exterior renovation.

Why Roof Replacement Is an Investment, Not an Expense

April 9, 2026
When homeowners consider roof replacement, the conversation often begins with cost. It is understandable. A roof is one of the most significant exterior components of a home, and replacing it requires careful planning. However, viewing roof replacement strictly as an expense can overlook its broader impact.  A properly executed roof replacement is not simply a repair or upgrade . It is an investment in the performance, appearance, and long-term value of the home.

What Makes a Roof “High-End”? Materials, Installation, and Design Explained

April 1, 2026
A roof serves as one of the most important structural and visual components of a home. While all roofs are designed to protect against the elements, not all roofing systems are created to the same standard. A high-end roof is defined by more than appearance alone. It reflects a combination of premium materials, precise installation, and cohesive design that work together to deliver long-term performance and elevated curb appeal.  Understanding what distinguishes a high-end roof can help homeowners make informed decisions when planning a full roof replacement.

How Homeowners Can Plan Construction Projects Around Their Lifestyle

March 24, 2026
Construction projects are often approached with a focus on appearance, materials, and resale value. While those elements are important, one of the most overlooked considerations is how a space will actually be used on a daily basis. A well-designed home is not just visually appealing, it supports the routines, habits, and priorities of the people who live in it.  Planning a construction project around lifestyle allows homeowners to create spaces that are functional, comfortable, and practical for years to come. When design decisions are guided by real-world use, the result is a home that works better in everyday life.