3-tab asphalt shingles lay flat and get their name because of the 3 tabs on each shingle strip. Architectural shingles give your roof a good-looking random pattern or simulate the look of wood/cedar shakes. 3-tab shingles used to dominate the roofing industry and are the cheapest of the 3 types of asphalt shingles.
Are 3-tab shingles any good?
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.
What’s the difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles?
3-tab shingles are flat, and they have a single tab shape and size. They are uniform, which gives them a flat look. Architectural shingles are also referred to as dimensional shingles. This is because they provide a more dimensional look to the roof.
When did they stop using 3 tab shingles?
Up until the 1980s the most prevalent asphalt shingle used was the strip shingle otherwise called the 3-tab or the 20 – year shingle. These are the flat shingles with, of course, 3 tabs that most people remember being the standard shingle for decades and continue to be common for an economical choice.
Why is it called a 3 tab shingle?
They are called 3-tab because each shingle is notched three times to give the appearance of being three shingles when installed. 3-tab shingles are thinner than architectural shingles, being of a simpler composition and less types of materials. Installation is simple due to the cutout and uniform look.
Are 30 year shingles worth it?
30-year architectural shingles can increase the value and equity of your home, which is important for homeowners who might consider selling down the road. More durability without need for extra support.
What shingles last the longest?
Of the 3 types of asphalt shingles, the longest lasting are luxury (or premium) asphalt shingles. Luxury asphalt shingles are larger and thicker than 3-tab or architectural shingles, which makes them more durable.
What is the price difference between 3-tab shingles and architectural?
When it comes to cost, architectural shingles typically runs $35 to $45 per bundle. Three-tab shingles cost an average of $25 to $30 per bundle. On the surface, the architectural shingles are 40 to 50 percent more expensive.
Which is easier to install 3-tab or architectural shingles?
Since architectural shingles are composed of multiple layers of material, they are thicker and heavier than 3-tab shingles—about 50% heavier, in fact. This makes them a bit more durable and longer lasting compared to 3-tab shingles. However, it’s much easier and faster to install 3-tab vs.
Are 3-tab shingles still made?
However, manufacturers developed architectural asphalt shingles as technology improved. They are a higher quality roofing material and offer more benefits than 3-tab shingles. Because of this, architectural shingles are the preferred choice in the roofing industry, and 3-tab shingles are being phased out.
Are architectural shingles worth it?
In a word, yes—the benefits of architectural shingles make the extra cost more than worth it. (Which, depending on your contractor, is around $15 per square. On most roofs, this results in the extra cost of $450.)
What is the difference between 30 year and 50 year shingles?
A 30-year shingle is covered by the manufacturer for that time span, no matter the defect or issue that arises. A 50-year shingle, however, utilizes tougher materials during the manufacturing process.
What are luxury shingles?
Luxury or premium shingles are actually larger than the other asphalt shingles and are made to look like slate. While 3-tab shingles still make good looking roofs, dimensional and luxury shingles mimic other roof types to give you a distinct look.
Which is better asphalt or architectural shingles?
Traditional asphalt shingles offer great durability, especially in mild climates. But if you live in an area that is particularly windy or prone to extreme winter weather, architectural shingles provide superior protection against these elements.
How long do 25 year shingles really last?
Dimensional shingles come with a 30-year manufacturer warranty. Vented properly and installed correctly, you should get around 80-85% of the life span out of an asphalt roof. That means you can expect to get about 20-22 years out of your 3-tab shingle roof and 25-28 years out of your dimensional shingles.
What is the average lifespan of a house roof?
Slate, copper and tile roofs, which are on the upper end of the price spectrum, can last more than 50 years. Homeowners with wood shake roofs should expect them to last about 30 years, while fiber cement shingles last about 25 years and asphalt shingle/composition roofs last about 20 years, the NAHB found.
Do they make 15 year shingles?
There are three types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab: These are the most affordable type of roof shingle. In the right conditions and with the proper maintenance, they can last 10 to 15 years. These are made from a fiberglass base topped with mineral granules that disperse and reflect the sun’s rays.
