what is the difference between asphalt and architectural shingles

Full Answer

What is the best brand of architectural shingles?

Top architectural shingle brands

• CertainTeed. CertainTeed is one of the most trusted names in asphalt roofing shingles. ...
• GAF. Unlike many shingle brands which have to be purchased from building supply stores, GAF shingles are more readily available at big chain stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
• Atlas. ...
• TAMKO. ...
• Owens Corning. ...
• IKO. ...

What is the difference between 3 Tab and architectural shingles?

Three Tab or Architectural Shingles

• Aesthetic Difference. Dimensional shingles were developed in the 70’s for the high end home market. ...
• Performance Difference. Architectural shingles typically have a minimum of 25 to 30 year warranties. ...
• Cost Difference. Today laminated shingles are available in many different warranty lengths from 25 to 50 years. ...
• Shingle Type Summary. ...

How much do architectural shingles cost?

You can expect to pay $1.00 to $1.50 per sq. foot or $100 to $150 per square installed on a standard sized single story home. 50 year architectural roofing shingles could cost from $500 to $785 per square (100 square feet).

How to install architectural shingles?

• Drip edge at the eves. ...
• Using your cap nails, secure the deck protection to the roof. ...
• Then, install new flashing (metal flashing is often called "drip edge" along the bottom of the roof near your gutters) and starter shingles at the edges.
• Nail the drip edge in place using your hammer and roofing nails. ...

Are architectural shingles the same as asphalt?

Architectural shingles (also known as dimensional shingles) are an asphalt-based roofing material. They are designed to give your roof a good-looking random pattern or simulate the look of a wood shake roof.

Are architectural shingles better?

Because of their durability and high-quality composition, architectural shingles generally have a longer lifespan than the 3-tab variety. They stand up better to weather conditions such as heat, snow, ice, rain, and strong winds. Their average lifespan is about 18 to 20 years.

Are architectural shingles worth extra cost?

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 cost difference between architectural shingles and regular shingles?

Architectural shingles cost around 40 to 50 percent more than 3-tab shingles. However, they are usually a better option since they are twice as durable as the best-quality 3-tabs.

How long do 30 year architectural shingles really last?

The truth is, a 30-year shingle will not really last 30 years. The expected service life of a 30-year product, if properly cared for, is approximately 25 years. If it's not cared for properly, that 30 year shingle will only last 12 to 15 years. That's one of the big misconceptions in the roofing marketplace.

What's easier to install 3-tab or architectural shingles?

Both of them are excellent choices, as both three-tab shingles and architectural shingles are going to be durable and affordable. Three-tab shingles are also lighter weight and easier to install, if speed of installation matters.

How much does a 30 year shingle roof cost?

The cost of 30 year architectural asphalt shingles would cost around $4.50 per square foot or $450 per square, but can go up to $7 per square foot.

Are architectural shingles harder to install?

Architectural shingle roofs are also easier to install, are more durable and offer a better warranty. Often, architectural shingles cost less across their lifespan than a basic 3-tab roof, which is why northern New Jersey homeowners often conclude that architectural shingles are a worthwhile investment for their homes.

What is the average life expectancy of a shingle roof?

High-quality architectural shingles have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. Conversely, 3-tab shingles are expected to last 10 to 12 years. Tile roofs in Florida last from 25 years to 50 years. When maintained properly, they could last even longer.

How do I choose the best shingles?

Here are my 6 tips for picking your asphalt shingles:6) COLOR AND STYLE.5) TALK TO YOUR CONTRACTOR ABOUT ALL YOUR OPTIONS.4) PICK A SHINGLE WITH A GOOD WARRANTY.3) PICK A SHINGLE THAT PROTECTS YOUR CURB APPEAL.2) CONSIDER THE WIND RATING.1) CONSIDER THE IMPACT RESISTANCE.

How do I know if I have architectural shingles?

On the one hand, 3-tab shingles are designed to look like three individual shingles but are, in fact, all one piece. On the other hand, architectural shingles have an additional layer of asphalt, making them look bulkier, similar to wood or slate.

What is the difference between 25 and 30 year shingles?

The 25 year shingle also known as the 3-tab shingle has a clean design and is the more economical option, on the other hand the 30 year dimensional shingle will provide an extra 40 mph resistance. Both shingles have a distinct style. Upgrading to 30 year shingles will give your house a different look.

Are architectural shingles better than three-tab?

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.

How much extra is architectural shingles?

The average cost to install architectural shingles on your roof ranges between $13,500 and $21,500, or $4.50 to $7 per square foot ($450 to $700 per square). Higher quality 50-year architectural shingles will cost more, at about $5 to $7.85 per square foot.

Are architectural shingles harder to install?

Architectural shingle roofs are also easier to install, are more durable and offer a better warranty. Often, architectural shingles cost less across their lifespan than a basic 3-tab roof, which is why northern New Jersey homeowners often conclude that architectural shingles are a worthwhile investment for their homes.

Are 30 year architectural shingles impact resistant?

30 year shingles often have warranties attached to them and depending on the company the warranties vary from 5 years to 20 years. 30 year impact resistant shingles vary in strength from class 1 to class 4. The type of class determines the material and the resistance of the shingle.

What is asphalt roofing made of?

Both asphalt and architectural shingles are made of asphalt and adhesives with additional granules added to the outermost layer. These materials are laid atop a backing of fiberglass. The differences in the material of the shingles comes in the amount of material used.

How fast can asphalt shingles go?

Asphalt shingles are not going to be able to bear the burden that architectural shingles can. The general estimation for asphalt shingles is 60 mph winds. That’s honestly going to cover most nontorrential wind storms.

How long do architectural shingles last?

Asphalt shingles are going to have warranties of 15 to 30 years Architectural shingles have warranties of 30+ years. The average lifespan of architectural shingles is 18 to 20 years. Asphalt shingles on the other hand have an average lifespan of 7 to 10 years. Either shingle in a more optimal environment will last longer; with asphalt shingles surviving around 15 years and architectural shingle ssurviving around 30 years.

Is it important to consider the aesthetics of shingles?

Not everyone considers the aethetics of the shingles that they are putting on your roof, but it is much more important than most realize. A roof can be up to 40% of the visuals that others see of your house, so the aesthetics are not something worth ignoring.

What is architectural shingles?

Architectural shingles or multi thickness asphalt shingles are other terms for laminated asphalt shingles. These shingles have the same material as the tree tab roof shingle but instead of a single shingle layer, two layers are bonded together to create a 3 dimensional appearance.

What are the different types of roofing shingles?

Both types, asphalt and architectural shingles are suitable for roofing a properly constructed pitched roof without any further reinforcement. The shingles come in two, three or four tab cutouts in 3 foot strips. Three-tab is the most common for asphalt shingles. The tab cutouts are to mimic the shapes of slate tile or wood shakes. Both types of shingles come in a wide range of colors to match your siding and trim. You can also get specially treated shingles if you live in a damp climate to prevent algae and molds.

How long does a 3 tab roof last?

They are lightweight, reasonably priced and can last anywhere from 8 to 30 years. The three-tab shingle is relatively easy ...

What is a three tab roof?

Three-tab is the most common for asphalt shingles. The tab cutouts are to mimic the shapes of slate tile or wood shakes. Both types of shingles come in a wide range of colors to match your siding and trim. You can also get specially treated shingles if you live in a damp climate to prevent algae and molds. Asphalt three-tab roof shingles have ...

What is laminated shingles?

Laminated shingles have wide randomly sized notches to look more like the inconsistencies of a cedar or shake roof. Laminated shingles are heavier than standard asphalt shingles which gives them improved durability and wind resistance.

How long do asphalt shingles last?

They are lightweight, reasonably priced and can last anywhere from 8 to 30 years. The three-tab shingle is relatively easy to install or repair. High quality asphalt shingles can be fairly maintenance free and offer fire and wind resistance.

How long do asphalt shingle roofs last?

This is up to 22 years for a 3-tab asphalt shingle roof and as long as 28 years out for dimensional asphalt shingle roofing.

Is a metal roof better than asphalt shingles?

Both metal roofing material and asphalt shingle roof materials are great options, each have benefits and drawbacks. With the multitude of finishes they have, there is something to match any style of home.

Why are asphalt shingles so common?

One reason is the low cost, they still provide a level of protection for homes, and they are aesthetically appealing. Exactly what are asphalt roof shingles made of though?

What Are Architectural Roofing Shingles?

Architectural shingles are also referred to as dimensional or laminate shingles. Although they existed before the ’80s, it was during this period that they were refined into the much higher-quality asphalt roofing shingles that they are today.

What is Owens Corning shake?

Today, you’ll find architectural roofing made to mimic cedar wood shakes such as Owens Corning Woodcrest® Shingles which are made to resemble authentic cedar wood shakes. Everything from their thickness down to the random positioning of the slots aims to imitate the real thing, making them an excellent choice in roofing shingles if you like that look.

How many tabs are in a 3 tab shingle?

Let’s start with the basics: sizes. 3-tab shingles only have one shingle tab size and shape. This lends them a very standard “cheap” look that’s often associated with low-budget roofing jobs. Architectural shingles, on the other hand, have shingles of various shapes and sizes. Because of this, they’re much closer to shake or slate roofing in terms of appearance, and they create a more dimensional (3D) look.

How long do 3 tab shingles last?

3-tab shingles are not known for their durability. With good maintenance they are at most a 15-20 year shingle, but that’s about as much as you can expect, much less if the shingles are of poor quality and were not installed to factory specifications.

What is a waterproof mat made of?

Well for starters, they are made from a mixture of ceramic-coated mineral granules set compactly into refined waterproof asphalt and a heavy base of fiberglass mat. This makes them completely waterproof as well as extremely durable due to their extra thickness.

What happens if a house roof looks brand new?

They are less likely to turn away or negotiate the price down if the roof is in good condition, even less so if the roofing looks great, and adds to the curb appeal of the home.

Where is Tropical Roofing located?

Tropical Roofing Services LLC is a locally owned roofing company based out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida . We are licensed, and insured, so you can feel confident having us work on your home or building. We are very knowledgeable about the asphalt shingle roofing products that we sell.

Asphalt Roofing in Maryland

Founded in 1988, Topper Construction has quickly grown to become one of the largest roofing and siding contractors in the Mid-Atlantic region thanks to our commitment to providing clients with quality work at a competitive price.

Request a FREE Quote!

For immediate assistance, please call 301-874-0220. We are headquartered in Frederick, Maryland with a satellite office in Pittsburgh to help us better serve you, our customers. We proudly service areas throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware.

What are specialty shingles?

Specialty shingles can come in bolder colors and styles that mimic other roofing materials, such as tile or wood shake, and offer the practicality and affordability of asphalt shingles with a slightly different look .

What is architectural shingle?

Considered to be a premium type of asphalt shingle, architectural roofing shingles are also called dimensional shingles or laminated shingles because there are two layers of shingle pieces laminated together to provide a dimensional look. Roofs covered in architectural shingles have an aesthetically pleasing appearance thanks to the variation in shingle sizes and shapes.

What is the most popular roofing material?

Asphalt roofing shingles are reliable, affordable and among the most popular roofing material in use today. According to the Home Innovation Research Labs’ 2018 Builder and Consumer Practices Report, 70% of the volume of roofing materials used in both single and multi-family residential new construction, roof repair, and roof replacement projects were asphalt shingles.

What is tile roofing made of?

Tile roofing is typically made of concrete and may be used on the roofs of historic properties and homes in the American Southwest region. They’re much heavier than asphalt shingles, requiring the interior structure of the roof to be reinforced so it can hold up the extra weight.

What type of shingles are used for shake roofs?

Pro Tip: You can get the look of shake shingles with specialty asphalt shingles, such as Woodmoor® and Woodcrest®, which are cut to mimic the natural, rustic look of shake with less maintenance and carry a Class A fire rating, the highest fire-resistance standard in the industry.

Why do roofs have to be reinforced?

A roof must be designed or reinforced to handle the weight of slate tile shingles adding to the complexity of their installation, which is part of the reason why they are one of the more expensive options available.

What is wood shingles made of?

Wood shingles have been used for hundreds of years as a roofing option for homeowners. Most wood shingles are made from either cedar or redwood. They are cut into precise shapes and have a much smaller exposure than traditional wood shakes, which gives them a distinct look.

Physical Composition

• Both asphalt and architectural shingles are made of asphalt and adhesives with additional granules added to the outermost layer. These materials are laid atop a backing of fiberglass. The differences in the material of the shingles comes in the amount of material used. Architectural shingles use much more material than asphalt shingles, as such the...

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Why Go with Asphalt Shingles?

Why Go with Architectural Shingles?