According to Wikipedia, and also you’ll notice as you drive around looking for deals, fiberglass-based asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in residential roofs in the country. As such, you must know at least a thing or two about asphalt roof shingles when fixing and flipping homes. Chances are you’ll meet a roofing problem sooner or later.

Biased as it may sound, the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association describes this material as “easy to find, easy to install, and easy to maintain. It’s also incredibly easy on the eye. And let’s not forget, it’s easy on the wallet, too!” But really, they could not have put it any better. That’s why those who fix and flip homes usually use it in can they have to.

One thing you must know when flipping homes with asphalt roof shingles is that they are generally classified into two main types. The first one is the more common fiberglass-based. It is made with glass fibers coated with asphalt and finished with mineral granules, which are considered weather-resistant. The other type is organic-based, whose base or mat is made from recycled waste paper and wood fibers. They became less popular due to their vulnerability to fire. Most fiberglass roofs have an A fire rating while organic types usually get C types, and could lower the value of a property. Always take that into count when you flip homes.

As for the specific types, there are four. The most common perhaps is the strip shingles. They are usually rectangular in shape, and may be measured in standard and metric dimensions. A lot of investors who are into the fixing and flipping home business use the three-tab shingle, a kind of strip shingles. They align the cutouts and create various designs and “textures” in the process.

Interlocking shingles, meanwhile, are preferred in windy areas. That’s because their interlocking feature allows them to be more resistant to strong winds. Investors who flip homes and are after making designs through shingles will also find this type useful. On the corollary, if you want the roof to be as plain and simple – to a point unattractive – as possible, use large format shingles. This type does not use cutouts or tabs and comes in larger measurements.

If you’re flipping homes and you have money to spare, use laminate shingles. Then, brag about the roof when you market the property. That’s because this type is most preferred by home buyers. Because they are laminated with an extra layer, they are thicker and provide and extra feeling of security for the homeowner. Apart from quality, they also visually appealing and thus have the tag “architectural shingles.”

Asphalt roof shingles are a good mix of economy, quality, and appeal. That is why it is no surprise that home builders, and even rehabbers, prefer using them in their projects. Just make sure to do a little research to determine what specific type of shingle will fit your need when flipping homes. Be sure to consider price, quality, ease of installation, and appeal.