What are roll roofing shingles?

Roll, or rolled, roofing is material consisting of large squares of felt suffused with asphalt, used as a cheaper and labor-saving alternative to individual roof shingles. Although there are practical advantages to rolled roofing, its appearance is plainer than individual shingles, and rolled roofing has a considerably shorter life span.

Roll roofing is the more practical material to use for a flat roof, as shingles do not provide a waterproof edge on a flat surface. Roll roofing can be purchased in varying sizes, with an optional mineral top-layer coating. When considering aesthetics, individual shingles offer more variety in color and character than roll roofing.