3 Tab vs Architectural Shingles: 4 Things to Consider Before Installing
Choosing the right roofing material for your home is a crucial decision. Among the plethora of options available, asphalt shingles remain a popular choice due to their affordability, durability, and versatility.
Selecting the right materials for a new roof installation is essential to ensure it lasts for many years and meets your specific needs.
Within the realm of asphalt shingles, two primary types dominate the market: 3-tab and architectural shingles. In this blog, we’ll delve into a comparison of 3 tab vs. architectural shingles, exploring:
The characteristics of 3-tab and architectural shingles
Their costs, longevity, and impact resistance
How to select the right style for your needs
How to find a reputable contractor for installation
Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Before we delve into the specifics of 3-tab and architectural shingles, let’s first highlight the advantages of asphalt shingle roofing:
Affordability: Asphalt shingles are cost-effective compared to many other roofing materials, making them accessible to homeowners on various budgets.
Durability: High-quality asphalt shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and snow, providing reliable protection for your home.
Versatility: Asphalt shingles come in a wide array of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their aesthetic preferences and architectural design.
Aesthetic Appeal: Architectural shingles offer the benefits of asphalt shingles while providing a more visually pleasing appearance similar to natural materials like wood and tile shingles, enhancing the overall look of your home.
Easy Installation: Asphalt shingles are relatively lightweight and easy to install, which can reduce labor costs and installation time compared to other roofing materials.
Now that we’ve established the benefits of asphalt shingle roofing, let’s delve into the specifics of 3-tab and architectural shingles.
All About 3-Tab Shingles
3-tab shingles are a traditional roofing option characterized by their uniform appearance and cost-effectiveness. Here are the pros and cons of 3-tab shingles:
✅ Pros:
Cost-Effective: 3-tab shingles are among the most affordable roofing options available, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Lightweight: These shingles are lightweight, which simplifies the installation process and may reduce structural requirements.
Traditional Appearance: 3-tab shingles offer a classic, uniform look that appeals to homeowners seeking a timeless aesthetic for their homes.
❌ Cons:
Limited Dimensionality: 3-tab shingles lack the dimensional appearance of architectural shingles, which may be perceived as less visually appealing by some homeowners.
Lower Wind Resistance: Due to their design, 3-tab shingles may be more prone to wind damage compared to architectural shingles.
Shorter Lifespan: While 3-tab shingles can provide adequate protection for your home, they typically have a shorter lifespan compared to architectural shingles.
All the Facts About Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as laminate or dimensional shingles, are a superior option for enhancing a home’s appearance due to their enhanced aesthetics and durability. Architectural shingles can also mimic the aesthetic of cedar shakes, providing a visually appealing alternative.
Here are the pros and cons of architectural shingles:
Enhanced Aesthetics
Architectural shingles offer a variety of shingle styles, allowing homeowners to find options that match their aesthetic preferences.
✅ Pros:
Enhanced Aesthetics: Architectural shingles feature a multi-dimensional appearance that mimics the look of natural materials like wood or slate, adding depth and texture to your roof.
Superior Durability: These shingles are constructed with multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass, making them more resistant to impact, wind, and other environmental factors compared to 3-tab shingles.
Longer Lifespan: Architectural shingles typically have a longer lifespan than 3-tab shingles, offering extended protection and value for homeowners.
❌ Cons:
Higher Cost: The enhanced aesthetics and durability of architectural shingles come at a higher price point compared to 3-tab shingles, which may deter some budget-conscious homeowners.
Heavier Weight: Architectural shingles are heavier than 3-tab shingles, which may require additional structural support and increase installation costs.
Variability in Quality: Not all architectural shingles are created equal, and the quality can vary depending on the manufacturer. It’s essential to choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality products.
Cost Comparison
When comparing the cost of 3-tab and architectural shingles, it’s essential to consider not only the initial installation expenses but also the long-term value they provide. While 3-tab shingles are typically cheaper upfront, architectural shingles offer greater durability and longevity, potentially offsetting their higher initial cost over time.
According to industry estimates, the average cost of 3-tab shingles ranges from $2 to $4 per square foot, including materials and installation. In contrast, architectural shingles cost between $3 to $5 per square foot. Although the architectural shingles cost is higher, the investment can be justified by their enhanced aesthetic appeal and longer lifespan, making them a financially sound choice compared to other roofing materials like slate and cedar shakes.
Longevity Comparison
The lifespan of asphalt shingles varies depending on various factors, including the quality of the materials, climate conditions, and maintenance practices. However, architectural shingles generally have a longer lifespan compared to 3-tab shingles.
3-tab shingles typically have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, whereas architectural shingles can last 25 to 30 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Investing in architectural shingles may provide homeowners with greater peace of mind knowing that their roof will offer reliable protection for an extended period.
Impact Resistance Comparison
One of the critical differences between 3 tab vs architectural shingles is their resistance to impact damage, such as hail or falling debris. Due to their multi-layered construction, architectural shingles offer superior impact resistance compared to 3-tab shingles.
Architectural shingles are designed to withstand impact better, reducing the likelihood of damage and the need for costly repairs or replacements. This enhanced durability can be particularly advantageous for homeowners living in regions prone to severe weather conditions.
How to Choose the Right Style for You: 4 Factors to Consider
When deciding between 3 tab vs architectural shingles, several factors should be considered to ensure you choose the right style for your needs:
In regions prone to severe weather conditions such as blizzards, hurricanes, or flooding, it is advantageous to choose architectural shingles for their extra protection and durability.
1) Budget:
Determine your budget and weigh the upfront cost of installation against the long-term value and durability of each shingle type.
2) Aesthetics:
Consider the architectural style of your home and choose shingles that complement its design aesthetic. Architectural shingles offer more design options and can enhance the curb appeal of your property.
3) Climate:
Take into account the climate conditions in your area, including factors such as wind, precipitation, and temperature fluctuations. Choose shingles that offer adequate protection against the elements prevalent in your region.
4) Longevity:
Assess the lifespan of each shingle type and consider how long you intend to stay in your home. Investing in higher-quality, longer-lasting shingles may provide greater value in the long run.
Finding a Quality Contractor
Once you’ve chosen the type of shingles that best suit your needs, it’s crucial to find a reputable contractor to handle the installation process. In the context of roof replacement, it’s important to consider modern alternatives like architectural shingles, which offer better durability and aesthetics compared to traditional 3-tab shingles. Here are some tips for finding a quality contractor:
📚 Research
Take the time to research local roofing contractors and read reviews from previous customers. Look for contractors with a solid reputation for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
💰 Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to compare pricing and services offered. Be wary of unusually low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or workmanship.
💻 Check Credentials
Verify that the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured to perform roofing work in your area. Additionally, inquire about their experience and certifications with the specific type of shingles you’ve chosen.
⭐️ Ask for References
Request references from the contractor and follow up with past clients to inquire about their experience working with them. A reputable contractor should be able to provide satisfied customers willing to vouch for their work.
Start Your Shingle Roof Today
Choosing between 3-tab and architectural shingles is a significant decision that can impact the aesthetics, durability, and value of your home. Whether you opt for the traditional affordability of 3-tab shingles or the enhanced aesthetics and durability of architectural shingles, investing in a high-quality roofing system is essential to protect your home and investment for years to come.
Contact Built Right Roofing today to get started on your roofing project!
