SRD Asphalt shingles Although wood shingles, slate, tile, metal, and a host of other materi-als can be used to surface house roofs, asphalt stands out as theroofing material of choice because it is relatively affordable, easy toapply, fire-resistant, comparatively lightweight, available almostevery-where, and durable enough to last for 15 to 40 years. In the past, uninteresting appearance was the biggest strike againstasphalt roofing-it just didn't offer the visual interest and charm ofclassic materials such as wood and tile. But things have changed.Today, asphalt shingles are sold in many textures, grades, and stylesthat are reasonably convincing at mimicking the look and character oftraditional materials.