3 tab shingles vs architectural shingles cost

Recently I was asked what the difference is between three tab and architectural shingles and which are better. As far as I’m concerned there is quite a bit of difference in both appearance and performance. To understand why, you need to look at both types side by side as shown in the image above.

Physical Difference Between Architectural Shingles and Three Tab

Architectural (also known as dimensional, laminated or composite shingles) shingles are constructed with a heavier base mat which multiple layers of material are adhered to. This gives the “dimensional” shingles a layered or three dimensional look. Whereas the standard three tab shingle contains a flat layer with no dimensional “thickness” to it. Typically architectural shingles weight almost 50% more than the standard 3 tab shingles.

Aesthetic Difference

Dimensional shingles were developed in the 70’s for the high end home market. Home owner’s were looking for an asphalt shingle product that had the architectural appearance of cedar shingles while providing the performance of asphalt. By using the layered construction of the dimensional shingle it appears to have texture similar to cedar shakes. Laminated shingles do a much better job hiding imperfections in the roofing structure as well. Another option is to use synthetic roofing shingles which look similar to laminated shingles.

Performance Difference

Architectural shingles typically have a minimum of 25 to 30 year warranties. Because of the heavier construction they are less likely to warp and they provide much better wind resistance. Standard three tab shingles are typically rated for 60 mph winds while most architectural shingles are rated for 80 mph up to 120 mph.

Cost Difference

Today laminated shingles are available in many different warranty lengths from 25 to 50 years. Typically, the cost of architectural shingles is only about 20% more than the traditional 3 tab shingles. Some of the higher end 50 year products can be as much as twice as expensive to buy. One thing to consider though is the increased value of your home. laminated shingles help raise the curb appeal of a home and make it more valuable in an appraisal.

Shingle Type Summary

I personally prefer architectural shingles for all of the reasons listed above. I happen to live in a development that requires them as part of the architectural covenants. It’s likely that in the coming years standard three tab shingles will begin to fade away in the market as demand for laminated shingles increases. What type do you have on your home?

The main difference between Asphalt shingles and architectural shingles comes down to durability, versatility, and price.  Asphalt shingles are made from fiberglass layered between asphalt and ceramic covered granules. The result is a water-resistant coating that also deflects UV light. While this is the fundamental composition of asphalt shingles, there are many variations to consider.

Two of the most common varieties are architectural and three-tab shingles. If you are a new homeowner or renovating your roof on a budget, these are two options that may be worth your while. Here is a break down of the pros and cons of each shingle style.

Durability

Three-tab shingles are relatively thin as they are made up of a single layer of materials. Architectural shingles, however, have two asphalt shingles stripes laminated together. This layering creates a shingle that is better suited to hold up against the elements.

On average, the three-tab shingle comes with a warranty of 20, 25, or 30 years. Architectural shingles have minimum warranties of 30 years. In general, three-tab shingles have the life expectancy and can only handle winds up to 60 mph as opposed to its counterpart’s tolerance for 130 mph gusts.

Durability Winner: Architectural Shingles

Versatility

While a roof serves a practical purpose, it can also be an opportunity to add a personal touch on your property. That is why homeowners want to explore a diverse range of aesthetic options when it comes to roofing materials. The three-tab shingle doesn’t offer much flexibility in this regard. It comes in one shape and size and has a flat complexion.

However, the layered effect of the architectural shingle leaves room for diverse shapes and sizes. Homeowners can choose from different dimensional looks as well as colors and textures. The versatility of architectural shingles is an attractive feature of this option.

Versatility Winner: Architectural Shingles

Price

The architectural shingles are the all-around superior product, which is why more homeowners are picking it over the three-tab option. 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. Still, it is a better investment, because the life expectancy of the three-tab shingles is, at best, half that of architectural shingles. Homeowners who spend less initially end up shelling out much more to install and replace three-tab options.

Price Winner: Architectural Shingles

Final Thoughts

Each type of shingle has distinct strengths and weaknesses. That said, homeowners should only consider the three-tab shingle if they are on a tight budget. Otherwise, the little extra money spent on architectural shingles is worth your while. Better yet, the customizable nature of architectural shingles gives you far more freedom to make aesthetic decisions for your exterior.

If you have questions about roofing materials, feel free to contact the experts at Turtle Roofing. As a locally owned and operated business, we have proudly served people in Omaha for more than seven decades. Learn more about our services by calling our representatives at (402) 430-1554 today.

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