7 Best Roof Shingles To Consider For Your Home

6 Minute Read

Posted 9.13.25

Choosing the best roof shingles for your home in 2025 means balancing durability, style, and climate performance, especially in regions like North Dakota and northern Minnesota. At 5 Star Roofing and Contracting, we install a variety of premium shingles, but we trust IKO shingles the most for their strength, beauty, and value.

Variety of options: From classic architectural styles to impact-resistant designs, today’s shingles deliver more than just curb appeal.
IKO performance: Our go-to shingle brand, IKO, is designed to stand up to the harshest weather conditions.
Climate matters: The right shingles will protect your home from ice, snow, wind, and UV damage year-round.

Let’s explore the top types of shingles worth considering and why your choice matters more than ever in 2025.

What To Look For in a Great Shingle

The best roofing shingles combine visual appeal with long-term protection. In cold-weather regions like ours, that means prioritizing weather resistance, impact performance, and warranty coverage.

Key Factors to Consider

Durability: Choose shingles rated for wind, impact, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Algae resistance: Look for protection against black streaking, especially in humid areas.
Warranty: A stronger warranty often reflects better manufacturing standards.
Style and color: Your shingles should complement your siding, trim, and neighborhood aesthetic.
Contractor compatibility: Some shingles require certified roofing installers (like IKO ShieldPRO Plus contractors) to unlock extended warranties.

Why We Recommend IKO Shingles

As an IKO-certified contractor, 5 Star Roofing and Contracting works with these products every day. We trust IKO because their shingles are built for Midwest conditions and come in a range of high-performance options for different budgets and home styles.

Built for cold climates: IKO shingles feature a durable fiberglass mat and fast-sealing asphalt to resist wind uplift and water infiltration.
Class 3 and 4 impact ratings: Many IKO lines meet or exceed standards for hail resistance.
Great color variety: Whether you want rustic browns, modern grays, or bold blacks, IKO delivers on aesthetics.
Industry-leading warranties: When installed by a certified contractor, your roof may qualify for enhanced protection.

7 Best Roof Shingles To Consider in 2025

Here’s our list of top shingle options that homeowners in our area should consider. These are ranked based on performance, visual appeal, and homeowner satisfaction.

1. IKO Dynasty Shingles

Best for wind protection: With a reinforced nail zone and high-performance weather sealant, Dynasty shingles are rated for winds up to 130 mph.
Architectural appeal: Dimensional layering adds depth and character to your roof.
Color options: Available in bold, high-definition colors like Castle Grey, Glacier, and Granite Black.

2. IKO Nordic Shingles

Impact-rated performance: These Class 4 shingles are specially designed for hail-prone regions.
Cold-weather durability: Engineered to maintain flexibility and adhesion in extreme winter conditions.
Energy savings: Light-reflective colors help reduce summer heat absorption.

3. IKO Cambridge Shingles

Most budget-friendly: A solid architectural shingle at a more accessible price point.
Reliable coverage: Dual-layer construction resists moisture and wind.
Versatile colors: Matches well with most siding and trim combinations.

4. CertainTeed Landmark Shingles

Popular nationwide: Known for quality and consistent performance.
Algae resistance: StainGuard protection reduces black streaking.
Strong warranty: A solid choice if your contractor offers a full-system install.

5. GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles

Advanced sealing strip: Offers quick adhesion and protection during high winds.
Wide availability: Easy to find and install throughout the country.
Customizable looks: Available in multiple colors and blends.

6. Owens Corning Duration Shingles

SureNail technology: Reinforced nailing zone helps reduce shingle blow-off.
Impact-resistant upgrades available: Choose Class 4 options for better hail defense.
Popular color blends: Offers a high-end look without breaking the bank.

7. Malarkey Highlander NEX Shingles

Sustainable materials: Uses recycled rubber and plastics for eco-conscious homeowners.
Smog-reducing granules: Helps clean the air around your home.
Rubberized asphalt: Adds flexibility and durability, especially in freeze-thaw cycles.

Architectural vs. 3-Tab Shingles: What’s the Difference?

Choosing between these two common styles comes down to longevity and appearance. In 2025, architectural shingles are overwhelmingly the top choice. When comparing 3-tab vs. architectural shingles, homeowners find that the dimensional depth and higher wind resistance of architectural options offer far better value over time, despite the slightly higher initial investment.

Architectural Shingles

Thicker and layered: Offers more dimension and a longer lifespan (25–30 years or more).
Better wind and impact ratings: Ideal for North Dakota and Minnesota storms.
Higher resale value: Boosts your home’s curb appeal and appraisal.

3-Tab Shingles

Flat profile: Less visual depth compared to architectural styles.
Shorter lifespan: Typically 15–20 years, with less durability in harsh weather.
Lower cost: Better for tight budgets or temporary roofing needs.

How to Choose the Right Shingle for Your Home

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best roof shingles for your home will depend on your goals, budget, and the style of your property. Here’s how to narrow it down:

Consider Your Climate

Cold and snow: Choose shingles with fast-activating sealant and heavy-duty adhesion.
Hail-prone areas: Look for Class 3 or Class 4 impact-rated products.

Match Your Exterior Style

Rustic homes: Weathered wood or earthy tones create a warm, natural look.
Modern designs: Sleek blacks or grays pair well with clean lines and neutral exteriors.
Traditional homes: Browns, slates, and multi-tonal blends complement classic architecture.

Think About Long-Term Value

Better warranties: Often available only through certified contractors like 5 Star Roofing and Contracting.
Energy efficiency: Reflective granules can help manage cooling costs in the summer.
Insurance discounts: Class 4 impact-resistant shingles may qualify for lower premiums.

Why Work With 5 Star Roofing and Contracting?

When you choose shingles, you’re not just picking a product—you’re choosing a team to install it. Here’s why North Dakota and Minnesota homeowners trust us:

IKO ShieldPRO Certified: We install premium IKO shingles with full system warranties.
Transparent pricing: We help you compare materials side by side with no pressure.
Local experience: We know what shingles work best in our region because we install them year-round.

Invest in the Best Shingles for Your Home

Finding the best roof shingles means thinking beyond price—it’s about protection, performance, and peace of mind. Whether you want a high-end architectural product like IKO Dynasty or a budget-friendly option like Cambridge, the right shingle makes all the difference. To determine which of these brands fits your financial plan, it is helpful to look at the current shingle roof cost for different material grades, as this will help you weigh the upfront investment against the long-term warranty and durability benefits.

At 5 Star Roofing and Contracting, we guide you through every step—from product selection to expert installation. Our team is here to help you choose a roofing system built to last through the harshest Midwest weather.

Ready to upgrade your shingles? Contact us today for a free inspection and let’s find the perfect fit for your home. At 5 Star Roofing… our name says it all.