Homeowners across the Triangle—Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and beyond—are always weighing their roofing options. Between hurricanes, summer heat, and unpredictable storms, finding a material that balances performance and affordability is key.
If you’re replacing your roof or building a new home, composition shingles (also called “comp shingles”) might just be your smartest option yet.
Think all shingles are the same? Not quite. Here’s why this popular choice keeps winning over North Carolina homeowners.
What Are Composition Shingles?
Composition shingles are made from a blend of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules, engineered to provide long-lasting performance and visual appeal. Unlike basic asphalt shingles, comp shingles offer enhanced durability, better moisture resistance, and a wider range of styles.
They’re often available in textures and finishes that mimic higher-end materials like wood shake or slate—without the high price tag.
Want to dig deeper into how they compare? Learn more about how composition shingles differ from asphalt shingles in this blog post.
1. Built for North Carolina’s Wild Weather
Between hurricanes, humidity, and intense summer sun, North Carolina demands a roof that holds up. Composition shingles are specifically designed to stand up to:
- Heavy rain and high winds
- Moisture and warping
- Optional impact resistance for hail-prone areas
In a climate like the Triangle’s, durability matters and comp shingles bring it.
2. Affordable Without Looking Cheap
Cost is always a factor—but you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality or style.
Composition shingles offer strong performance at a lower price point than materials like slate, cedar, or metal. That makes them especially appealing for larger roof footprints often seen in custom homes across Wake and Orange counties.
They deliver serious curb appeal without blowing the budget.
3. Versatile Aesthetic Options
Your roof shouldn’t limit your home’s style.
Today’s comp shingles come in a wide variety of textures, colors, and shapes. Whether you’re restoring a Chapel Hill bungalow or building a sleek new construction in Durham, these shingles offer design flexibility.
You can even find options that replicate natural slate or shake—giving you the look you want without the weight or maintenance.
4. Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan
When installed correctly and maintained properly, composition shingles can last 20 to 30+ years. Many are:
- Resistant to algae and mold
- Fade-resistant, even in direct sunlight
- Easy to repair, replace, or patch as needed
If low-fuss reliability is your priority, comp shingles check that box.
5. Energy Efficiency You Can Feel
With reflective coatings and ENERGY STAR® options, many composition shingles are built to help reduce heat absorption. That’s a big win during North Carolina summers, when a cooler attic can ease the load on your HVAC system.
Fewer hot spots = lower energy bills.
6. Fire and Wind Resistance for Peace of Mind
Safety matters. Most comp shingles offer:
- Class A fire ratings (the highest available)
- Wind resistance up to 130 mph, when installed to manufacturer specs
That level of protection is important not only for severe weather, but also for wildfire-prone rural areas around the Triangle.
7. Proven Performance, Backed by Warranty
Leading manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning offer product warranties up to 30 years or more.
When installed by a trusted local roofer like Pickard Roofing, you also benefit from extra peace of mind from a team with decades of experience in North Carolina roofing.
Why Triangle Homeowners Choose Comp Shingles
In short, they’re practical, attractive, and built to last.
Composition shingles strike the right balance of beauty, performance, and price. They're ideal for everything from new builds to historic home upgrades. And when installed by a team that understands the climate and construction of the Triangle, they deliver serious value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do composition shingles compare to metal or slate?
They’re more affordable, easier to install, and come in more styles. Great for homeowners who want quality without a high-maintenance system.
Do they really hold up in NC storms?
Yes—especially impact-resistant options installed to meet wind and weather codes.
Are there eco-friendly options available?
Yes. Many products include recycled content and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
How do I know which shingle is right for my home?
Pickard Roofing offers free consultations and product recommendations based on your home’s style, structure, and needs. See our residential roofing page for more information.
Upgrade Smart with Composition Shingles
Composition shingles aren’t trendy—they’re trusted. They’ve earned their place on homes across The Triangle by delivering the durability, flexibility, and affordability homeowners want.
If you’re planning a roofing project, they’re worth a serious look.
Need help deciding what’s right for your home?
Schedule a free consultation with Pickard Roofing to explore your options. We’ll walk you through materials, styles, and warranties—backed by more than 100 years of local expertise.
