What’s The Difference Between Laminate And Fiberglass Shingles?

When it’s time to replace your roof, choosing between laminate vs. fiberglass shingles can be an important decision for Wisconsin homeowners. 

Both options offer their own set of benefits, but understanding their differences will help you make an informed investment for your home’s protection.

In this guide, we will compare these two popular roof shingle options based on different factors, allowing you to choose the shingle type that suits your needs the best.

Let’s get started!  

What Is A Laminate Shingle?

Laminate shingles are made by layering asphalt and fiberglass repeatedly on top of a regular asphalt shingle. This makes it thicker and tougher, kind of like how a stack of papers is stronger than a single sheet.

What Is A Fiberglass Shingle?

Fiberglass shingles are made with a base of fiberglass, which is a strong and lightweight material, and then coated with asphalt to make them waterproof. These are a nice choice for homeowners who are looking for simple and affordable roof shingles for their home. 

Laminate vs. Fiberglass Shingles

Here is a breakdown of the differences between both types of shingles in order for you to find the best choice for your home. 

#1 Cost Of The Material

When looking at roofing options, the cost difference between laminate roof shingles and fiberglass shingles is worth considering.

Laminate shingles generally cost between $4.50 to $7.00 per square foot installed, while fiberglass roof shingles run slightly less at $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot. 

This price difference often makes homeowners pause to consider which option better fits their budget.

#2 Installation Costs And Process

The fiberglass shingle installation process is generally straightforward, making it a popular choice among contractors. 

Laminate roof shingle installation can be a bit more complex due to its thicker construction, but many professionals have experience with both types. 

Labor costs for both are comparable, though laminate shingles might take slightly longer to install because of their weight and multi-layer construction.

#3 Durability And Lifespan 

When comparing fiberglass vs. laminate shingles, durability is a key factor. 

The laminate roof shingle lifespan generally ranges from 25 to 30 years, thanks to their multi-layer construction. 

The lifespan of a fiberglass shingle roof is similar, commonly lasting 20–25 years with proper maintenance. However, both can last longer in mild climates with regular care.

#4 Weather Resistance 

Due to their thickness and weight, laminate shingles perform pretty well in areas with harsh weather. They’re less likely to lift up in high winds and offer better impact resistance against hail. 

Fiberglass roof shingles perform well in most conditions, too, but they might be more susceptible to wind damage in extreme weather conditions.

#6 Appearance And Style

Laminate roof shingles offer a more dimensional look that many homeowners prefer. They can mimic the appearance of slate or wood shakes, adding character to your home, but might not look as exact as the original slate or wood.

Fiberglass shingles provide a more traditional, uniform look but still come in various colors and styles to match your home’s aesthetic.

#7 Maintenance Requirements 

Both types need regular care to perform their best. With fiberglass roof shingles, you’ll want to check for cracking and granule loss periodically. Laminate shingles generally require similar maintenance but might be more resistant to wear and tear due to their thicker construction.

#8 Environmental Impact 

Fiberglass shingles tend to be more eco-friendly because they use less asphalt in their construction. Both types are recyclable, though recycling options might be limited in some areas. Energy efficiency varies by color and coating, regardless of whether you choose laminate or fiberglass options.

How To Make The Right Choice For Your Building

The final choice between laminate and fiberglass shingles requires you to carefully consider multiple factors that will affect your home’s protection and value for years to come. 

#1 Consider Your Budget 

Your budget considerations should include both immediate installation costs and long-term maintenance requirements. A basic fiberglass roofing shingle will be cheaper compared to laminate shingles initially. However, since fiberglass shingles are less durable, you may be required to maintain the roof more frequently, increasing the final investment.

#2 Understand Your Local Weather Patterns

The weather patterns of your area play an equally important role in the final decision. Wisconsin’s humid summers, cold winters, and occasional severe storms, might favor the durable design of laminate shingles. 

However, if your home is in an area with more moderate weather conditions, fiberglass roof shingles could provide sufficient protection at an affordable cost.

#3 Look At Your Home’s Architectural Style

Your home’s architectural style is also an important consideration to make while choosing among shingle types. Laminate shingles offer dimensional depth whereas fiberglass shingles are more uniform in appearance.

#4 Energy Efficiency Goals And Environmental Considerations 

Both laminate and fiberglass shingles offer energy-efficient options, but their performance characteristics differ.

The thickness of laminate shingles provides better insulation, while fiberglass shingles can better resist heat. Understanding these differences can help you choose the option that best aligns with your energy conservation goals and local climate conditions.

Important Note: Your roof represents an important and valuable investment in your home’s protection and value. Whether you choose laminate or fiberglass shingles, proper installation and regular maintenance remain essential for optimal performance and longevity.

Final Thoughts!

Now you might have a clearer idea of laminate vs. fiberglass shingles, and what things you need to consider in order to make the right decision. However, you need to be thoughtful about some common things, no matter what shingle type you choose. 

👉 Always verify material quality and contractor expertise regardless of the type of shingle you use. A minor installation mistake can lead to costly repairs, especially with the laminate shingle’s complex layered structure.

👉 While fiberglass shingles require minimal maintenance compared to laminate options, both types demand proper care. Clear gutters and downspouts are very important for water drainage, particularly for fiberglass shingles, which can be more susceptible to water damage. 

We Are Here To Assist You With Professional Shingle Installation In Mayville, WI

If you are looking for a high-quality, faultless shingle installation in Mayville, and the surrounding areas in Wisconsin, then we are here to assist you. At BRH Enterprises, we understand the importance of choosing the right roofing material for your building. 

Our experienced team is here to assist you in every step of the process. We take pride in our transparent communication, competitive pricing, and commitment to exceeding customer expectations. Contact us today at (920) 249-4228 for a free estimate and experience the difference our expert team can make.

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