Choosing Roof Shingles for New Mexico

What New Mexico throws at a shingle

• Sun — high altitude means strong UV that dries out asphalt and wears off granules.
• Wind — spring winds lift tabs and edges, especially on exposed lots.
• Hail — summer storms can bruise and crack shingles in minutes.
• Big temperature swings — hot days and cold nights expand and shrink the roof all year.

Types of shingles

The brands we install

We install shingles from three major manufacturers. Each makes standard architectural lines and impact-resistant lines:

• GAF — one of the largest U.S. shingle makers, with Timberline architectural lines.
• Owens Corning — Duration architectural shingles, including impact-rated versions.
• Malarkey — known for polymer-modified shingles with strong impact ratings.

All three are solid choices. The bigger difference is usually the installation: proper nailing, underlayment, flashing and ventilation. Manufacturer warranties also depend on the roof being installed to their instructions, and some extended warranties require a certified installer — ask what warranty applies to your quote.

Color and heat

Lighter colors and "cool" or reflective shingles absorb less heat, which can help attic temperatures in summer. Darker charcoal and black shingles are popular but run hotter. Good attic ventilation matters as much as color.

Is impact-resistant worth it?

In hail-prone areas it often is, especially if you've had a hail claim before. Some insurers offer a discount for Class 4 roofs — ask your agent before you choose, since the discount can help pay for the upgrade.

Roofing questions

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