3 Tab Shingles: What You Need to Know

3 Tab Shingles

When you glance at your rooftop, it's a complex pattern of shingles overlapping one another. Although it may not look like it - there is always a closely designed pattern used to ensure integrity.  Shingles are also larger than most people realize. In fact, did you know you don't see the entire shingle when it's on a structure?

A common material that may be on your property right now is the 3-tab shingle. This versatile material consists of three connected tabs divided by two cutouts. Get to know the basics of 3-tab shingles so that you'll have a better understanding of your investment.

Properties of 3-tab Shingles

Easy Installation

A given rooftop is several hundred square feet in size. It's a huge surface that must be covered forwaterproofing purposes. When you have a bundle of shingles ready to be laid out, the merepresence of 3-tab shingles makes the project easier. These shingles are much longer than othertypes, such as architectural designs, so they'll cover a wider space. Roofers add the materials inrapid succession, which reduces the time spent at the job site.

Trimmable Edges

If you purchased architectural shingles, they're limited by their shapes and sizes. Trimming themto fit against the roof's edge can be tricky or outright unsightly. A bundle of shingles with tabs andcutouts is easier to manage. Trim either side of the shingle, and the resulting appearance is stillaesthetically pleasing. From afar, it may not look trimmed at all. This versatile benefit to the 3-tabshingle makes it a favorite among both homeowners and contractors.

Low Cost

3-tab shingles are easier to manufacture compared to other materials, so cost remains low. Thosesavings are passed on to the customer when a quote comes through on a project. The majority ofhomeowners will choose 3-tab products because of the cost factor. They're receiving a reliableproduct for a reasonable price. Unless the homeowners have particular needs that involve high-endmaterials, 3-tab products are the materials that beautify a rooftop.

Limited Applications in Poor Weather

Most of the 3-tab features are beneficial, but you should also know about potential drawbacks.Tab-and- cutout products are designed for regions that have moderate weather patterns. They canwithstand wind speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. If your area is prone to gusts higher than thisspeed, however, damages might be in your future. The materials aren't heavy enough to withstandexcessive wind speeds.

Curling Potential

Tab shingles are durable for about 20 to 30 years of use, but they can warp in certain conditions.You might notice curling at the tabbed edges over time. The curling is from weathering andpossible material defects. These materials must be replaced so that water cannot penetratebeneath them. Other roofing materials, including metal, don't have this curling potential.Get an instant estimate from Roofr today. There's no need to wait for a contractor to arrive at yourhome for a quick quote. Our software performs the hard work that results in a fair quote for yourproject. You can take this information and get to work with a reputable contractor.

Roofing Questions?

Have any questions about 3 tab shingles or anything roofing related? Our roofing professionals at Roofr are happy to help! Call us at 866-819-5215 or head over to roofr.com to get a instant roofing estimate!