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.

Color and Texture in Construction: How Modern Exteriors Are Redefining Neighborhood Design

October 14, 2025
Across neighborhoods, the appearance of residential architecture is changing . Homeowners are increasingly moving away from uniform siding colors and traditional materials, embracing exterior designs that combine varied textures, tones, and finishes. The result is a landscape of distinctive homes that reflect individuality while enhancing overall community appeal. At Paese Construction, we believe that exterior design should be both timeless and expressive, using color and texture to highlight craftsmanship and elevate the visual harmony of every neighborhood we serve.

Top Exterior Design Trends for Fall and Winter Homes

October 7, 2025
As the seasons shift and the air grows cooler, many homeowners begin to think about ways to improve both the comfort and appearance of their homes. Fall and winter are ideal times to plan or complete exterior upgrades that not only protect against harsh weather but also elevate curb appeal . At Paese Construction, we specialize in exterior replacements that blend timeless craftsmanship with modern design. This season, homeowners are embracing materials, colors, and finishes that emphasize durability, warmth, and lasting beauty.

How Seasonal Changes in the Northeast Impact Exterior Materials

September 30, 2025
Building a home in the Northeast requires more than an eye for design. The region’s dramatic seasonal changes demand careful attention to exterior materials. From harsh winters with snow and ice to humid summers and heavy storms, each season places unique stress on a home’s structure. At Paese Construction, we specialize in using high-end materials that not only enhance beauty but also provide the resilience needed to withstand these conditions year after year.

Investing in Longevity: The Lifespan of High-End Roofing and Siding Materials

September 23, 2025
When it comes to protecting your home, few investments are as important as roofing and siding. They shield against weather, define curb appeal , and determine how much maintenance your property requires over the years. At Paese Construction, we specialize in full roofing and siding replacements using high-end materials that combine durability with beauty. While these materials may require a greater initial investment, their extended lifespan and lasting performance make them the most cost-effective choice for homeowners who value both quality and peace of mind.

The Hidden Costs of Delaying Roof or Siding Replacements

By Mariah Herring • September 17, 2025
For many homeowners, roofing and siding replacements are projects that feel easy to postpone. If there are no visible leaks or obvious damage, it may seem reasonable to wait another year before committing to the investment. However, delaying these essential upgrades often leads to more problems, greater expenses, and reduced property value over time. At Paese Construction, we focus exclusively on high-end roofing and siding replacements, and we see firsthand how waiting too long can cost homeowners far more than acting proactively.

Architectural Styles and the Best Roofing Choices for Each

September 10, 2025
A roof is more than protection against the elements. It is also a defining feature of a home’s character and curb appeal. Choosing the right roofing material involves more than durability and longevity; it requires careful consideration of how the material complements architectural style. At Paese Construction, we specialize in high-end roofing replacements, and we know that pairing the right material with the right design creates exteriors that are both functional and timeless.

The Aesthetic Advantage: Coordinating Roofing and Siding for a Unified Design

September 2, 2025
Create a Cohesive Look with High-End Roofing and Siding Replacements When homeowners consider exterior replacements, the first priority is often function: durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. While these factors are essential, design is just as important. A new roof or siding replacement provides a chance to create a cohesive, polished look that enhances curb appeal and property value. At Paese Construction, we specialize in high-end roofing and siding replacements, and we know that choosing materials that complement one another makes all the difference.

How Siding Replacement Improves Both Energy Efficiency and Curb Appeal

August 27, 2025
Boo  st Curb Appeal and Efficiency with New Siding Siding does more than provide an exterior finish to your home. It plays an essential role in insulation, moisture control, and overall energy performance. At the same time, siding is one of the first features people notice when they look at your home, directly influencing curb appeal and property value. At Paese Construction, we specialize in full siding replacements using high-end materials that bring together both form and function.

Why Scheduling a Replacement Now Prevents Emergencies Later

August 19, 2025
When it comes to protecting your home, timing can be just as important as the materials you choose. Fall is one of the most strategic times of year to replace your roof or siding. By planning a replacement now, you can prevent costly and stressful emergencies during the winter months when cold temperatures, snow, and ice put homes to the test. At Paese Construction, we specialize in high-end roofing and siding replacements, and we have seen how proactive planning saves homeowners from major headaches.

How to Choose Trim Materials That Withstand New Jersey’s Climate

August 12, 2025
Protect Your Home with Quality Exterior Trim Exterior trim is more than a decorative finishing touch. It frames windows and doors, defines rooflines, and provides an important layer of protection against the elements. In New Jersey’s climate , where hot, humid summers are followed by cold, snowy winters, trim materials must be selected with care. Choosing the right option ensures lasting performance, reduced upkeep, and enduring beauty. At Paese Construction, a company dedicated exclusively to full exterior replacements rather than temporary repairs or maintenance, we understand the importance of investing in trim that can stand up to years of environmental stress. Our commitment to high-end materials and expert installation means each project is designed for long-term results.