Thinking about repairing or replacing a roof can be confusing, particularly when it comes to deciding what kinds of materials to use in the process. Most homeowners want to know the choices available to them. Shingles will likely be part of that choice and, believe it or not, there are innumerable options with shingles. There are colors, shapes, and overall installation techniques that most people are not aware of, so most homeowners should get a basic idea of the different types of shingles before they dive into the roofing process.
Categories
Shingles are basically categorized as architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles. They are different and they both have good and bad points. Here is a rundown on both of them:
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles have different names. They can be called laminate shingles or dimensional shingles. In contrast to more traditional 3-tab regular shingles, architectural shingles are available in varying sizes and shapes. They also have an appearance that suggests proportion, volume, depth, and dimension. They look like a piece of tile or a shake that has substance to it. With an architectural shingle, you can derive the features of an asphalt shingled roof plus acquire added dimension.
3-tab Shingles
This type of shingle is what is associated with traditional asphalt shingles that are commonly used in roofing projects. They are a single tab and are non-dimensional in shape. They are placed flat to a roof’s decking and do bring a clean and neat appearance to a roofline. They are available in a number of different colors.
Composition of Architectural and 3-Tab Shingles
Both architectural and 3-tab shingles are composed of asphalt as well as fiberglass with a mat type backing, a top layer of granules and adhesives for adherence. The differences between the two have to do with the overall quality and material input. Architectural shingles contain a higher caliber of asphalt in contrast to 3-tab shingles. They also contain an increased number of granules on their surface, plus stronger adhesives and a base that is thicker and tougher. Architectural shingles are also infused with color distinctions that greatly intensify the look of the shingles. Added surface granules increase the chances of preserving this type of shingle for a longer period of time.
In contrast, 3-tab shingles are very flat in appearance, which is due to the fact that the tabs are of the same size and shape and are evenly placed in rows. As with architectural shingles, 3-tabs are available in colors though the colors are less intense in their coloration and texture.
Consistency of Architectural and 3-Tab Shingles
Consistency or thickness with architectural shingles is another factor that differentiates architectural shingles from 3-tab shingles. They are quite a bit heavier and thicker than 3-tabs. A thicker shingle allows for greater endurance and strength and when it comes to wind and other extreme weather conditions, architectural shingles are considerably more durable. Three-tab shingles are weaker, less durable, and not as long-lasting. They can be subject to damage in areas or regions of the country that experience reoccurring bad weather.
Pros and Cons of Architectural and 3-Tab Shingles
Architectural Pros:
- A more popular choice of roofing material
- Thirty-year guarantee
- Resistance to increased wind speeds
- Increased value to a home
Architectural Cons:
- More costly
- Heavier than traditional asphalt shingles which may make them unsuitable for certain structures.
3-Tab Pros:
- Lighter and consist of less material
- Less expensive
- Used throughout most residential communities because of affordability
3-tab Cons:
- Less thick and often require replacement sooner than expected
- Flat in appearance rather than dimensional
- Not quite as popular in use
Whether you choose architectural or 3-tab shingles, there are going to be advantages and disadvantages with each. If you’re not sure what type of shingle best fits your current or future roofing needs, complete the online contact form, and an expert will get back to you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
