October 5, 2018

Architectural Shingles Could Add Dimensions to Your Home

Did you know that the type of shingles you choose for your roof can have big effects on your home? Architectural shingles can add dimensions to your home. Learn more!

Time to read:
2 Minutes
Written by
Nicholas Capobianco

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Do you know the type of shingle your home has? Asphalt shingles are the leading roofing material in the U.S.  The most common type of asphalt single in use today is architectural shingles. Asphalt shingles typically have a base layer of asphalt and water-repellent layers that are embedded mineral granules. Architectural type shingles are similar but have a laminated lower edge. This thicker edge area gives an appearance of depth, and it is the reason that these types of shingles are also known as dimensional shingles.

Three-tab Shingles

The other type of shingle in wide use is the three-tab shinle, or tabs. Tab shingles have a flat appearance. These shingles are less costly, lighter, than dimensional shingles but are also less durable. Tab shingles need to be replaced sooner than their dimensional counterparts. At Roofr, we can recommend the best type of roof replacement material for your needs. We take into consideration how warranties are affected and the type of climate and weather patterns your roof needs to be prepared for.

Recommended Applications for Architectural Type Shingles

Architectural types are best when you want a high-end appearance to the home. They add greater value to your home than tab shingles, and they can cost less than tabs over time since they last longer. They also work best on steep or severely sloped roofs. The sharp angle helps resist wind damage. However, despite their weight, dimensional tiles can still bend and lift in strong winds.

Choosing Dimensional or Three-tab Shingles

Nearly all of the roof installations in the U.S. apply dimensional or three-tab types of shingles. Dimensional shingles offer a distinctive appearance; along with high-quality construction and durable materials. You can even choose items that imitate traditional materials like cedar or slate. Three-tab shingles are also standard roof covers. They have consistent lines, and make surfaces look even and flat.

Advantages of Architectural Installations

Here are some of the advantages of architectural types:

Appearance: The dimensional or architectural shingles have depth. They also can resemble cedar shakes and slate tiles. The textured surface can mask defects in the roof line or roof surface.

Long Life Span: The thicker, heavier architectural shingles last longer on average than the thinner three-tab types. Dimensional shingles resist curling and have multilayer waterproof seals.

Resistance to Wind and Weather: Dimensional shingles resist high winds much better than tab shingles. Tab-type shingles resist winds up to 60 miles per hour; dimensional shingles have wind ratings between 80-120 miles per hour.

Warranty Protection: Most manufacturers give 25-year warranties for three-tab shingles and longer warranties for dimensional shingles. Manufacturers provide 40- to 50-year warranties for dimensional shingles.

Disadvantages of Architectural Installations

One of the main disadvantages of architectural types is that they cost more than three-tab shingles. These dimensional shingles average 20 to 30 percent more than an equal area of tab shingles. The difference in price may be significant; the difference can add thousands to the price of a large roof. For most consumers, the higher price may be offset by long life and reliable protection. The shape of the roof may suggest one type over the other. Roofr works with carefully chosen expert installers who provide helpful advice for replacing flat or low-slope roof areas.

Roofr Uses High-Tech Estimates

Roofr uses satellite-based technology to offer precise estimates for your roof repairs. The price of the overall installation includes installation, preparation, and the costs of each bundle of shingles needed to cover the roof. You can be sure that the estimate will provide the bundles of shingles needed for effective coverage. 

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