A Guide to the 3 Different Types of Asphalt Shingles

Do you know which types of asphalt shingles are best for you?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used on homes in the United States today. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles, all of which are simple to install, widely available, and surprisingly inexpensive to manufacture. Because of their low cost and long lifespan, they outperform many competing roofing types.

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They are designed to safeguard your home from weather and moisture, come in hundreds of styles and colors, and require little maintenance. Continue reading to learn more about the three different types of asphalt shingles and determine which is best for you and your home.

1. 3-Tab Roofing Shingles

3-tab shingles, also known as ‘strip shingles,’ are the first type of shingles you should consider. Their name is derived from how shingles are cut and installed. These shingles are made from a layer of asphalt and made into strips.

3-tab shingles generally look flat and offer a slate-like look to your roof once installed. They are also lightweight because they are made from a shingle strip.

Below are some of the advantages of 3-tab shingles;

Affordable and Cost-Effective

If you want affordable shingles, then you should consider 3-tab shingles.

Strip asphalt shingles are also more affordable than other types of asphalt roofing. They are affordable and durable under the right conditions and can last for several decades.

Thus, if you are tackling roof replacement, these shingles are an affordable choice you should consider. Strip shingles will suit your pocket and complement your home.

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Lightweight

These shingles are known for their incredible lightweight.

This makes them more advantageous if your home structure cannot bear the weight of heavier materials. Additionally, it is light enough to ensure it is not blown by the wind during extreme weather.

Easy to Maintain

When your 3-tab roof is installed correctly, it is straightforward to maintain. Additionally, its installation is a simple process.

Sustainable

You can do it without guilt whenever you want to replace or repair your roof, as the materials are 100 percent recyclable.

However, 3-tab shingles are weaker, have fewer aesthetic options, and are less durable. They are also likely to be damaged in regions that often experience bad weather.

2. Dimensional Roof Shingles

Dimensional shingles are also known as architectural shingles or laminate shingles.

They are the most common shingles and are made using two or more layers to create a thicker, multi-dimensional look. Laminate shingles can be designed to have the aesthetic of natural slate or wood shake; thus, they can boost the curb appeal to your home.

According to the Asphalt Manufacturing Association (ARMA), dimensional asphalt shingles are the most popular. Here are reasons why laminate shingles are preferred;

Laminate Shingles Are Strong

Laminate shingles are strong enough to sustain the gust of wind that might blow up your roof.

This strength is provided by laminated layers that help keep shingles on your roof. Additionally, architectural shingles have tabs glued on the side and thus making it difficult for wind to tear them.

Have a Fiberglass Core

Fiberglass ensures that your roof can resist fire and heat. Architectural shingles have a fiberglass layer on both surfaces. This makes laminate shingle ideal in regions with a warmer climate.

Fiberglass also gives shingles structural strength to sustain severe wind.

Durable

A laminate shingle is made from two or more layers, thus making them stronger.

Additionally, the architectural shingle is made using high-quality asphalt, making the granules hold better. These structural implementations are designed to provide a chain effect that better protects the shingle and thus extends its life.

However, an architectural shingle is more likely to weigh more than a 3-tab shingle. But, you should never judge a shingle by its weight alone; strength and durability are essential.

Laminate shingles are also expensive, but you should not shy away from the higher price tag if you consider its benefit.

3. Luxury Roof Shingles

You will love everything about luxury asphalt shingles, right from their appearance, affordability, and durability.

Luxury shingles are also referred to as premium shingles. They are the type of asphalt shingles with the highest quality. Apart from standing out due to their appearance, premium shingles offer weather protection to your home.

Luxury shingles are also the most popular asphalt shingle option. They offer a realistic interpretation of wood shake and slate roofing.

Premium shingles indeed outshine lesser grades of shingles.

You may note luxury shingles by their lustrous color or 3-D appearance whenever you walk along a residential street. Additionally, these shingles are thicker and heavier than ordinary asphalt shingles.

Luxury shingles undoubtedly provide a visual effect that has no comparison. They also offer enhanced resistance to algae staining, hail, fire, or strong wind.

Additionally, if you purchase luxury shingles, you will be offered a lifetime warranty. Although affordable, premium shingles are still more expensive than 3-tab and dimensional shingles. They are also heavier, and some roofs might not handle their weight.

Determine the Types of Asphalt Shingles Perfect for Your Roofing Needs

The three types of asphalt shingles have several benefits: affordability, durability, and functionality. But if you decide to install a new asphalt roof, consult a roofing expert who will help you choose a roofing material that matches your house.

At Best Roofing, we have already partnered with roofers to provide you with quotes across the United States. We also help homeowners to find the best roofing companies, loan options, and roofs.

We provide safe, secure, and free service that does not require homeowners to oblige. Contact us today to get a free quote.

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