Depending upon weight and quality, asphalt shingles can cost anywhere from about $90 to $175 per square installed (a square refers to a roof area equal to 100 square feet).

The two basic types are composition and fiberglass-base shingles. Composition shingles are made of organic felt manufactured from wood and paper fibers. Fiberglass-base shingles are made of manmade fiberglass mat.

Both kinds are soaked in asphalt, but the fiberglass base shingles are more fire-resistant than the organic ones. Asphalt shingles have mineral granules embedded in them; when you find these granules washing away, it's a sign that you need to repair or replace your shingles.

Although asphalt shingles may look like individual tabs, they are generally manufactured in in 12-inch by 36-inch pieces that are notched to look like smaller units. The exposed portion is called "exposure" and the lower edge is referred to as the "butt." They come in a variety of weights. Generally speaking, the heavier the shingles, the longer they last.

Choosing from the wide assortment of available colors, textures, patterns and weights can be daunting. Most homeowners prefer premium-weight shingles, which may weight 430 pounds per square, compared with standard shingles at about 230 pounds.

Because these are more three-dimensional, they do a better job of mimicking the texture of real wood shingles.

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