Let’s take a look at the two most popular types of asphalt shingles and see how they stack up.
Three Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles have been the standard in roofing since the beginning of the twentieth century. Also known as asphalt shingles, they get their name from the evenly divided tabs, which create the appearance of rectangular shingles.
What Are Three Tab Shingles?
Three-tab shingles are made from asphalt, which is coated with mineral granules to enhance their durability and aesthetic appeal. The asphalt base provides flexibility, weather resistance, and protection against UV rays. The granules also serve as a protective layer against the elements and help to enhance the shingle’s color and texture.
Three-tab shingles are relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice for do-it-yourself homeowners. They typically come in standardized sizes and can be nailed directly onto the roof deck, reducing installation time and labor costs.
While three-tab shingles are not as thick or heavy as some other roofing materials, they still provide reliable protection against the elements.
Overall, three-tab shingles are the minimum roofing protection that you can get for your home. Architectural shingles, or composite or laminate shingles, are also made of asphalt, but they’re a step up from the older three-tab style shingle.
Architectural Shingles vs. Traditional Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as laminate shingles or composite shingles, were invented in the 1970s. They’re now the standard recommended roofing material for houses. But what makes them so much better than traditional three-tab shingles?
What Are Architectural Shingles?
Architectural shingles are a type of roofing material that is designed to mimic the look of other roofing materials, such as wood shakes, slate, or tile while providing the benefits of asphalt shingles. They’re made from a combination of various materials, including fiberglass, asphalt, and recycled materials, which is why they’re sometimes referred to as composite or laminate shingles.
Architectural Shingles are known for their durability and resistance to the elements. The combination of fiberglass reinforcement and asphalt makes them stronger and more weather resistant than three-tab shingles. In fact, architectural shingles can withstand high winds and heavy rain, providing reliable protection for the roof and the structure beneath it.
Architectural shingles are the best of both worlds for someone who wants the look of tile or slate shingles since composite shingles are much lighter in weight. Architectural shingles are also easier to install, and they reduce the overall weight on the home’s structure.
Many architectural shingles are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They often have reflective properties that help to reduce heat absorption, keeping the roof and the interior of the house cooler. This can lead to energy savings by reducing the need for air conditioning in hot climates.
Architectural or Three Tab Shingles
While three-tab shingles have been widely used in the past, architectural shingles have gained popularity in recent years due to their enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal. Although architectural shingles are generally more expensive initially than 3-tab shingles, their extended lifespan, rugged construction, and energy savings must be taken into consideration. Architectural or composite shingles are often considered a step up from three-tab shingles in terms of longevity and visual impact.
Let Volpe Enterprises give you a free consultation and help you choose the best roofing materials for your home. Locally owned and operated, we’ve been specializing in roofing for over 50 years.
