The Differences Between 3-Tab and Architectural Shingles

Learning more about different shingle types can help you decide which kind of roof is best suited for your budget and your home’s style. Some of the most popular roofing shingles available on the market today are asphalt shingles. There are a variety of asphalt shingle styles. Today, we will talk about two of them: 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles.

3-Tab Shingles

These are the most basic and affordable asphalt shingles available for your roofing project. They can be easily recognized because they have only one shingle tab size or shape, so they do not have a dimensional look. However, this also means that they are lightweight. Since they are less thick, they typically have a shorter warranty than architectural shingles. Many entry level roof shingles can withstand 60-70 mph wind uplift.

Architectural Shingles

As an asphalt and metal roof expert, we recommend architectural shingles or laminate shingles because they look more stylish, last longer and perform better than 3-tab shingles. They look distinct because the shingle tabs have various sizes and shapes, giving them a more dimensional look. Some architectural shingles can even imitate the look of shakes. Architectural shingles are thicker and some can weigh up to 50% more than 3-tab shingles. However, this also means they are tougher, so they have at least a 30-year guarantee on their warranty.

Many architectural shingles are also rated to resist stronger winds. You can expect these shingles to resist up to 110-130 mph depending on the product. While architectural shingles can cost more, they can also help maintain or improve a home’s value as long as they are properly installed. Architectural shingles are also popular among homeowners because they can greatly improve a home’s curb appeal.

We are also an expert in metal and tile roofing, and we can help you with roof repairs and roof maintenance. Dynamic Roofing Concepts has over 40 years of experience so we know which roof types to recommend to our customers. We will take your budget, your personal taste and your home’s style into account. Call us at (813) 257-9355 to learn more about our services and products or to get a free quote. We serve Tampa, FL, and other areas.