One of the best options for any budget is to install asphalt shingles on your roof, which is why they’ve been one of the most-used materials for years. You have 3-tab, architectural, and fiberglass asphalt to choose from whether you need a new roof or a replacement.

While asphalt shingles are the ones you’ll see more often than not on residential roofs, 3-tab is the most-common style. They’re a cheaper option and easy to install, which means they’re also cheaper to replace down the road. However, they’re not as durable as the other styles.

The other most-popular choice is the architectural style, since fiberglass is relatively new. Architectural shingles bring a different aesthetic to your roof, hence the name, and have an added layer of thickness that makes them stronger and more resistant to weather.

They have a higher cost than 3-tab, running as much as 5 times the price per square foot, but they also offer a more expensive look that bring a flair to your home. The price isn’t necessarily a bad thing, though, because you’ll get what you paid for.

With the added thickness, architectural shingles can be properly taken care of and last up to 50 years, which is around twice the lifespan of their 3-tab counterpart. That means you’ll pay more up front, but possibly pay less over time in replacements.

Still, as easy as asphalt shingles are to install and replace regardless of the style you want, it’s still recommended to hire a professional for the project. Not only will this keep you out of harm’s way, but ensure that it’s done properly and looks right.