Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials today. They are affordable, durable, and come in a variety of incredible colors and styles.
But before you select an asphalt shingle, it’s important to understand the differences between the three major types of shingles: 3-tab, dimensional, and luxury style shingles. How they match up on key factors, such as cost, lifespan, and warranties, will help you decide which is best for your home.
1. 3-Tab Shingles
3-tab shingles are one of the most popular types of asphalt roof shingles and are known for their low cost and ease of installation. They are available in a variety of colors and textures, which makes them appealing to many homeowners.
However, these shingles can be prone to damage and need repair after a storm. They also tend to be less durable than other shingle materials, so you may need to replace them more frequently.
Moreover, they are unable to handle winds exceeding 60 mph, which is why they should be avoided in high-wind zones.
Architectural shingles, on the other hand, have multiple layers that are laminated together to create a more durable, multi-dimensional aesthetic.
While they are slightly more expensive than 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles have a longer lifespan and higher warranties. They can last between 25-30 years on average, and some contractors offer lifetime warranties.
2. Architectural Shingles
Depending on your home’s style and budget, it’s important to find the right material for your roof. It should offer a variety of benefits, including durability and longevity, energy efficiency, and the ability to enhance your property’s curb appeal.
Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, are a great option for asphalt roofs. They’re engineered to replicate the appearance of natural materials like slate, cedar shakes, or clay tiles at a fraction of the cost.
They’re more durable and longer-lasting than 3-tab shingles. They’re also more resistant to storms and hail.
These shingles are also available in a wide range of colors to blend with your home’s existing architecture and landscaping. This makes them an ideal choice for estate homes, luxury homes, and those that are looking to increase their resale value.
While they are more expensive than three-tab shingles, you can still get a good price on these shingle options when you factor in their long life span and warranty. They’re a worthwhile investment that can enhance your home’s style and value while giving you peace of mind.
3. Premium Shingles
Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing option on the market today. They’re durable, affordable and come in a variety of colors, patterns and styles to suit any aesthetic preferences.
While three-tab shingles are still a common option for budget homes, there are some other options that can add luxury to any roof. Premium shingles, also known as designer shingles, are more expensive but add a unique visual flair to any home.
These shingles are also thicker than other options and require the expertise of an experienced roofing contractor for installation.
They are designed to mimic more expensive roofing materials and can be made in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors that will enhance the overall look of your home. Depending on the manufacturer, they will also offer added protection against hail and other harsh weather elements. For example, CertainTeed’s Landmark series offers a range of color options to match almost any home exterior design aesthetic.
4. Performance Shingles
Asphalt roof shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, which can help improve the look of your home. They also offer several advantages over other roofing materials, including low maintenance costs and durability.
IKO offers several different types of Performance Shingles, all with a Class 4 impact resistance rating. These shingles are made with polymer-modified asphalt, which provides protection from hail, winds, and other weather conditions.
These shingles are also more resistant to algae than traditional 3-tab shingles. They have a dimensionally stable fiberglass mat core and are equipped with IKO’s FastLock sealant strips.
The company’s Performance series includes the Dynasty (15-color), Nordic (9-color), and ArmourZone performance shingles, which feature a wider nailing zone to help protect the product from rips. Each shingle comes with a high-definition profile that mimics shakes and slate and delivers excellent wind resistance.