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What to know about architectural and dimensional asphalt shingles
Are you about to replace your asphalt roof? Do you keep seeing the phrases “architectural” and “dimensional” in your research to find the right roof for you? They may seem to mean the same thing.
What Is the Difference between Architectural Shingles and Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles?
Architectural shingles, dimensional shingles, and laminate shingles are a type of asphalt shingle, which is where some of the confusion comes from. In addition to often having a very different appearance than traditional asphalt shingles, architectural shingles are thicker and more durable, often with a pleasing texture or finish. The bottoms of the shingles are laminated with an additional layer of asphalt, which helps to give them their durability and appearance. Unlike regular asphalt shingles, there are no cuts or tabs at the top of each one.
3-Tab Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles: The Main Differences
When it comes to getting a new roof, homeowners have a variety of materials to choose from. They can either go for the more durable yet expensive metal or stick to the reliable tiles. Even so, most homeowners in the United States choose asphalt shingles for their durability, versatility, and price. However, while most people can agree that asphalt shingles are a great choice, there is still an ongoing debate about which is better — 3-tab shingles or architectural shingles.
The Basics of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material that uses asphalt to provide water protection for your home. However, these shingles are not made out of asphalt entirely. In fact, they consist of a base, usually fiberglass, which is then coated with a layer of asphalt and ceramic granules. The result is a durable yet lightweight material that is much more affordable than other alternatives. While there are many types of asphalt shingles, two of the most common are 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles. Both share the basic durability of asphalt shingles, making them an excellent choice for any home. Additionally, they are available in a variety of colors, giving homeowners the ability to customize their roofs.
The Differences Between 3-Tab Shingles and Architectural Shingles
Even though 3-tab and architectural shingles are related, they are vastly different from one another.
Appearance
At first glance, you might not notice the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles. However, if you take a closer look, you’ll see just how different they are. On the one hand, 3-tab shingles are designed to look like three individual shingles but are, in fact, all one piece. On the other hand, architectural shingles have an additional layer of asphalt, making them look bulkier, similar to wood or slate. Both types of shingles are available in a variety of colors, so you can easily design a roof that fits your style.
Lifespan
Generally speaking, most asphalt shingles have a pretty impressive lifespan. However, due to their high-quality composition, architectural shingles have a longer lifespan, ranging anywhere between 15 and 25 years. And, under optimal conditions, they may even last up to 30 years. In contrast, 3-tab shingles can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the weather conditions. In areas with mild climates, they have a lifespan of up to 25 years.
Durability
Architectural shingle style
As previously mentioned, architectural shingles have an additional layer of asphalt, which drastically increases their durability. For instance, they can withstand winds of up to 110 miles per hour and are more resilient to snow and hail. However, 3-tab shingles are much thinner as they only feature a single layer of material. Therefore, while they can still protect your home from rain, sun exposure, and snow, they aren’t as durable as architectural shingles.
Versatility
When getting a new roof, homeowners want to add their personal touch to it. Luckily, the layered effect of architectural shingles leaves room for diverse shapes and sizes. So you can choose from different textures, dimensional looks, and colors. Unfortunately, 3-tab shingles are much more rigid when it comes to their looks. They have a flat complexity and are only available in one shape and size. As a result, you’ll have a harder time putting your personal touch on the roof.
Cost
When it comes to price, it’s no mystery that architectural shingles are usually more expensive than their counterparts. Why? Because they are more durable, feature an additional layer of asphalt, and have a longer lifespan. However, if you don’t want to invest that much in your roof, you can always go for the reliable yet cheaper 3-tab shingles.
The Bottom Line
All in all, each type of asphalt shingle has its pros and cons. For instance, architectural shingles are very durable, yet they are harder to install and require a hefty investment. While 3-tab shingles are cheaper, they have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance.
Differences Between Dimensional And Architectural Shingles
Many homeowners use dimensional roof shingles and architectural roof shingles interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. If you want to figure out what shingle roof replacement is best for your home, you need to know how they are different.
What is a Dimensional Shingle?
Dimensional shingles were created in the 1970s and are made from fiberglass and other organic materials with asphalt added into the mix. They often have other minerals added to make them durable as well so they can stand up against the elements. Before these shingles came onto the market, t-lock and 3-tab shingles were the most widely used for shingle roof replacement. But the old shingles looked flat and had no depth. Roofers started to put layers of shingles in shapes on top of the first layer to add dimension, which started the idea of the dimensional shingles.
What is an Architectural Shingle?
These singles have evolved into different shapes, designs, colors, and even size over the years. The term dimensional is a category and architectural shingles actually fall into that category. They are, simply put, a fancier version of dimensional shingles. Most people wouldn’t be able to tell the difference of the two types side by side. Basic dimensional shingles are more uniform and have a pattern that repeats more often. Architectural shingles as a shingle roof replacement, on the other hand, have more of a random pattern and shape along with a custom installation, which makes them more expensive.
The best way to examine which is right for your home is to take a look at the two side by side. If you don’t care one way or the other or you can’t tell the difference, then you can go with the price that suits your budget.
Either type will give your home superior durability, a new look of depth, and a long-lasting protection against weather elements.
CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004
