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Consumer Reports says laminated asphalt shingles are a stylish choice for homeowners on a budget.
"Laminated shingles give you the three-dimensional appearance of real wood or slate at a fraction of the cost," said Jim Nanni from Consumer Reports.
Vinnie Leonardis tested 18 kinds of laminated shingles to see how well they can withstand the elements.
The first test determines how much damage could happen if something falls on the shingles, like a tree limb.
Most suffered only slight damage.
A second test was then performed to check the strength of the shingles and how much force it takes to tear one in half.
A third machine checks the force needed to pull two layers of shingles apart. Most of the shingles tested would not do well in very high winds.
Overall, there were big differences in the way the shingles stacked up.
"It pays to look for a professional who will work with one of our recommended models," Nanni said.
Consumer Reports says there are plenty of options, but the two best buys are CertainTeed's Landmark and Owens Corning Oakridge.
Both are good choices at around $70 per hundred square feet.
Consumer Reports says if you're planning to use laminated shingles, don't install a new roof over the old one. The added weight can overload your rafters.
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