Your roof keeps the entire house safe and sound. That’s why picking the suitable roofing material is so important, and asphalt shingles are the best option for many people when choosing the roof type.
This guide will help you understand the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles. Knowing their distinctions can help you decide which one suits you best.
Architectural shingles are a unique roofing material that’s becoming very popular, especially for new houses. Some people call them dimensional or laminated shingles because of their distinctive construction and appearance.
These roofing materials are crafted by bonding multiple layers of bitumen and fibreglass, creating a three-dimensional look with depth and texture.
This laminated structure mimics the appearance of natural materials like timber or slate and enhances durability and weather resistance. They both highlight the shingles’ multi-layered design, allowing for more complex patterns and substantial profile than traditional flat bitumen shingles. They’re meant to keep your roof safe and make it look flashy.
Think of architectural shingles like a sandwich for your roof. They have more than one layer, which makes them thicker and more challenging. They start with a bottom layer, then more layers are stuck on top.
Lots of people are choosing architectural shingles for their homes. Here’s why:
So, if you need a new roof, consider architectural shingles. They’re a good choice if you want something that looks good and lasts.
3-Tab Shingles are a common type of roofing that’s been around for donkey’s years. They’re called “3-tab” because each shingle has three flaps. Many people choose these for their homes, especially when watching their pennies.
3-Tab Shingles are pretty simple:
People have been putting 3-tab shingles on roofs for ages. Here’s why:
So, 3-Tab Shingles might not be the bee’s knees, but they’re good if you want a roof that works without costing an arm and a leg. They’re like the trusty old bike of roofs – not flash, but they get you where you need to go!
First, let’s talk about how these shingles look on your roof.
Architectural shingles | They are the fancy ones. They have a bit of texture, which gives your roof some depth. They’re like trying to look posh, with different shapes and shadows. If your roof were a haircut, these would be the stylish layered look. |
3-tab shingles | They’re flat, and all look the same, like a crew cut for your house. Nothing flashy, just a neat appearance. |
Which type of shingle holds up better against severe weather – architectural or 3-tab?
Architectural shingles | These are thicker and heavier, so they can handle more of what the weather throws. It’s like they’ve been hitting the gym regularly. |
3-tab shingles | They are a bit more delicate. They’re thinner and lighter, which isn’t always a bad thing, but it does mean they might not be as strong in a fight against a big storm. |
This is important because nobody wants to replace their roof too often, right?
Architectural shingles | Are in it for the long haul. They usually stick around for 20 to 30 years, sometimes even longer if you treat them nicely. It’s like they’ve signed a long-term contract with your house. |
3-tab shingles | Don’t hang around as long. They usually last about 15 to 20 years. Still a decent amount of time, but not as long as their architectural mates. |
3-tab shingles | They are easier on the wallet upfront. They’re the budget-friendly option, costing less to buy and install. If you’re watching your pennies, these might be your go-to choice. |
Architectural shingles | These are pricier to start with. You’ll need to fork out more cash initially for these fancy fellas. But here’s the thing – they might save you money in the long run. Because they last longer, you won’t need to replace them as often. It’s like buying a good pair of boots instead of cheap ones you have to replace every year. |
Let’s talk about how these shingles handle the weather. After all, your roof is like your home’s umbrella!
Architectural shingles | They’re heavier and thicker, which means they can better withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail than their 3-tab cousins. They’re less likely to blow off in a storm or crack under pressure. Think of them as the all-weather jacket of roofing. |
3-tab shingles | They aren’t as sturdy but can still protect your home. However, they might struggle more in extreme weather. They’re more likely to lift in high winds or be damaged by falling branches. It’s like wearing a light raincoat—fine for a drizzle but not great in a downpour. |
Now, let’s discuss how these shingles can make your house look.
Architectural shingles | They are the real lookers. They add depth and character to your roof, making your house look fancier. Some say they make a house look more expensive (even if it isn’t!). If you’re thinking of selling your home down the line, these shingles might bump up your property value a bit. |
3-tab shingles | They are more about function than fashion. They provide a clean and uniform appearance to your roof, but they don’t add much visual interest or distinctiveness. They’re like a plain white t-shirt – they do the job, but they’re not winning any style awards. They probably won’t add much to your home’s value, but they won’t take away from it either. |
3-tab shingles | They are easier to install, lighter, and simpler to work with, so the job gets done faster. They’re also pretty straightforward to replace if one gets damaged—it’s a bit like switching out a Lego brick. |
Architectural shingles | These are a bit trickier to install. They’re heavier and more complex, so getting them on your roof takes more time and skill. But once they’re on, they tend to need less maintenance over time because they’re tougher. It’s like installing a fancy appliance – more work to set up, but easier to live with. |
Alright, so we’ve thrown a lot of info at you. How do you choose? Here are some things to think about:
Alright, let’s wrap this up with a quick recap and some final advice.
We’ve covered a lot about architectural and 3-tab shingles. Here’s a quick reminder of the main differences:
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing shingles. It’s important to think about:
These factors will help you decide which type of shingle is best for your home.
Lastly, while we hope this guide has been helpful, there’s no substitute for professional advice. Every home is unique, Our roofing expert team can give you personalised recommendations based on your specific situation. We will consider your roof’s pitch, local building codes, and other factors we haven’t covered here.
Contact Residential & Commercial Roofing today at 0800 880 066 or visit our website for architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles roofing services. Our experienced team is standing by to discuss your roofing needs, provide a consultation, and offer a competitive quote. Don’t let roofing worries hang over your head—call us now and secure the quality roof your home deserves!
Quickly receive transparent pricing and a detailed timeline personalised to your needs.
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