Architectural shingles, also known as laminated, dimensional or composite shingles have been popular for many years. They were designed in the 70’s for luxury home buyers in search of a shingle that performed like asphalt but resembled cedar. While originally created for appearance, their popularity forced manufactures to match quality with appearance. Now, they are the number one choice for most home owners because of their beauty and durability.

Traditional (3-tab) shingles are lightweight and installed in one flat layer and create a more even, repetitive look. They are preferred for rental properties and lower cost homes for their color variety and affordability.

On the other hand, an architectural shingle looks three-dimensional. They look this way because of the layering of the shingles on top of each other and additional asphalt layer

Although architecture and 3-tab shingles have several differences such as durability, cost and warranty the simple comparison below will help you decide which to choose for your home.

  1. Durability

An architectural shingle is thicker and thus 50% heavier than a 3-tab shingle due to its quality construction. Also, known as a dimensional, laminated or composite shingle, Traditionally, they are composed of a heavy fiber glass mat base and ceramic-coated mineral granules that are tightly embedded in carefully refined, water-resistant asphalt. They have a wind rating of approximately 80 to 120mph and can last up to 50 years.

Traditional (3-tab) asphalt shingles have three regularly spaced asphalt tabs, giving the roofing material a very repetitive pattern. They only have one flat layer of asphalt however they remain popular because of their affordability and selection of colors to complement your home. Regular (3-tab) shingles typically have a wind rating of 60mph and last up to 20 years.

  1. Cost

The cost difference between the two main types of shingles runs about 20-30%. Architectural shingles have a higher price simply put, because they are a better-quality product. There are many sizes, shapes and colors to choose from as well as the aesthetic 3-dimensional look they create. They also increase the value of your home and boost the curb appeal. The cost for an architecture shingle is worth it whether you plan to stay in your home or sell it in the future.

  1. Warranty

The average warranty for architectural shingle is anywhere from 30-50 years, while the three-tab shingle is only up to 15-20 years.

After a short comparison of the two types of asphalt shingles, we end up with a conclusion that architectural shingle is better long-term than three-tab shingles. Nonetheless, it all boils down to your preference and budget. If you are looking for a more economical choice, three-tab shingles could be the better choice. But if you are willing to shell out more and are after durability and appearance, then architectural shingle is the best choice for you.

the most striking is their appearance. Three-tab shingles have basically the same color throughout and the same rectangular dimensions. On the other hand, an architectural shingle is a shingles that look three-dimensional. They look this way because some of the shingles are put on top of the other and some are given an additional asphalt layer You would think that the shingles were slabs of asphalt put on top of the other for effect, hence the name architectural shingle. If you are deciding which type of shingles to buy, a simple comparison will help you decide which to put on your home.

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