Deciding on a new roof is a major decision for every homeowner.  There are many items to consider when weighing shingle options, and the list of advantages is long.  Shingles will give you a long lasting, high wind resistant roof that will be pleasing aesthetically as well as economically.  You will need to pick the style and color that works best for your home.  There are 30, 40 and 50 year shingles available to choose from.  These shingles are different in a few ways.  One difference is the thickness of the shingle.  Another difference is the amount of granules stamped into the shingle, allowing them to last significantly longer as the asphalt base will stay protected longer.  The biggest difference in the shingles is the wind warranties that each shingle has.  In hurricane prone areas, like Southwest Florida. Wind warranties are ever so valuable, the wind warranties vary by shingle type and range from 70-110 mph.  Most shingles today come with color tones or shading which is the variance from light to dark colored granules.  This shading will give your roof a warm textured look.  Some special shingles like Elk's High Profile® Grande® have a more dramatic shading, increasing depth and appearance.