Whats the difference between 3 tab and architectural shingles

Types of Asphalt Shingle Comparison List

This is a really simple page that gets down to the comparison between architectural shingles vs 3 tab shingles. We hope you find this comparison useful and accurate. The list is split up into two sides. Please don't hesitate to become an expert contributor to Roofpedia.com and help us improve existing content and add new high quality roofing content. 

Architectural vs 3 Tab Comparison Side by Side

Architectural Shingles		3 Tab Shingles
	vs
1. Architectural Shingles or a.k.a dimensional or laminate shingles differ from the traditional 3-tab asphalt shingle look. They differ because the actual shingle tabs have various sizes and shapes. These various sizes and shapes give them a more “dimensional” look to them and can actually make a shingle roof look more like shake.	vs	1. 3-tab shingles have only 1 shingle tab size and shape.
2. Architectural shingles weigh more than 3-tab shingles. In fact, they weigh around 50 percent more than the asphalt 3-tab shingles.	vs	2. Architectural shingles are composed of one flat layer and do not have a dimensional look to them. Because they are more simple and are made up of less material they weigh less than architectural shingles.
3. Because architectural shingles are thicker than 3-tab shingles they have a longer warranty than most 3-tab shingles. Architectural shingles almost across the board have a minimum 30 year guarantee and are rated to resist higher speeds of wind.	vs	3. 3-tab shingles are less thick than architectural shingles and almost always have a shorter year guarantee. Because of this 3-tab shingle roofs need to be replaced sooner than architectural shingle roofs.
4. Architectural shingles cost more than 3-tab shingles.	vs	4. 3-tab shingles cost less than architectural shingles.
5. Architectural shingles help maintain or raise the value of the home as long as they are properly installed. They are a preferred shingle for homeowners because they help the homes value.	vs	5. 3-tab shingles are still preferred among residential rental properties and lower value homes where the initial higher cost can not be met for architectural shingles.
6. Architectural shingles are constantly becoming more and more popular in the roofing market.	vs	6. 3-tab shingles are on the decline in popularity.

Differences Between Shingles

We hope that this simple comparison helped answer your questions regarding the differences between architectural and 3-tab shingles. Overall architectural shingles are a better product that performs better and is more aesthetically appealing.

The main reasons why 3-tab shingles are still available for purchase are because they cost less and are a great option for those with smaller budgets, they are needed as the starter row when roofing a roof, and there are many roofs that already have 3 tab shingles on them and they require repairs with the same type of shingle.
 

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Asphalt shingles are a roofing staple all over North America by dint of their low upfront cost and easy installation. They are currently the biggest player in the roofing market, outpacing all other roofing materials by a considerable margin. Asphalt shingles are manufactured in two different types: three-tab and architectural.

Three-tab shingles are distinguished by cutouts—tabs—made along their long lower edge. The result, says Joan Crowe, a technical services director for the National Roofing Contractor’s Association (NRCA), is that “each shingle looks like three separate pieces when installed, but it’s only one.” Three-tab shingles have been around a long time and are still the most economical and most popular shingle today.

Architectural asphalt shingles contain no cutouts, but their lower portions are laminated with an additional asphalt layer. This creates the contoured, dimensional look that gives them their name. Asphalt sealant bonds the layers, reinforcing the shingles’ waterproof capability. Though durable, architectural shingles are not recommended for low-sloping roofs, which are more vulnerable to wind-driven rain.

Although the difference between three-tab and architectural shingles seems superficial, roofers consider the latter a more high-end roofing product. The price difference reflects this, with architectural shingles costing 20% to 40% percent more than three-tab shingles—a difference that can mean up to $1500 more for larger roofs.

But are architectural shingles really worth the extra cost? Roof Roof, one of the leading roofers in Greenville SC, says yes, they are. Here’s why:

• Aesthetics. Architectural shingles can be made to resemble premium roofing materials like cedar and slate and are better able to hide imperfections on the roof surface.
• Durability. Architectural shingles are nearly twice as thick as three-tab shingles and are therefore more durable and less vulnerable to curling.
• Weight and wind resistance. Three-tab shingles usually weigh 240 lbs per square and are rated for wind speeds up to 60 mph; architectural shingles weigh 340-440 lbs per square and are rated for wind speeds up to 80-120 mph.
• Manufacturer’s warranties. 25 years for three-tab, 40 to 50 years for architectural.

So is cheaper better? The answer will depend on how you look at things. Three-tab shingles are cheaper upfront, but over the course of your roof’s lifetime, architectural shingles can cost less.

To know more about your different roofing choices, get in touch with Greenville SC roof repair specialist Roof Roof or visit their website, www.RoofRoof.com.

(Article Excerpt from Asphalt Shingles 101, Bob Vila)

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