November 13, 2017

Architectural Roof Shingles vs 3 Tab Shingles

Looking for the perfect roofing solution for your home? Learn about architectural roof and 3 tab shingles before connecting to a vetted roofer for your roofing project. Get started today!

Time to read:
3 Minutes
Written by
Nicholas Capobianco

Manufacturers work hard to provide homeowners with the best roofing solutions. They make modern roofing from laminated compounds with color added. There are two basic types, which are essentially either a single-layer or a double-layer roofing tile. The double-layer roof tile is the architectural or dimensional type. The single layer is the three-tab version.

The architectural type is costlier but more appealing to the eye, and it can add value to your home. The single-layer type or three-tab tile is a basic roof cover. It has a flat appearance, and the tiles are consistent in size and shape.

Construction of Asphalt Roofing

Roofing Solution Damaged three tab shingle roof

3 tab shingles installed on a roof showing damage

The inner core of each tile is a piece of fiberglass. The fiberglass is water-resistant and provides some insulation. The maker then sandwiches the sheet of fiberglass between two weatherizing layers. Next, the top layer receives a covering of mineral granules, which add texture and color.

The architectural type of roof tile is a double of the four composite layers. The lower edge of the architectural tile has a raised laminated ridge. This raised section adds to the appearance of depth.

The double-layer composite tile is a popular roof cover. Manufacturers call it architectural or dimensional roofing. You can distinguish the architectural type from a three-tab or single-layer tile by its size, weight, durability, and appearance.

Asphalt Composition

Asphalt is the base material for architectural or double roofing and the 3-tab types. In the early 1980s, technical advances in lamination and materials created the architectural type. From that time to the present, architectural types have replaced tabs as the preferred material for roofing installations. Today, the traditional three-tab type of roofing is the low-cost option and the required material to repair roofs that already have tab shingles.

When estimating the number of shingles needed to cover a roof area, Roofr uses technologically advanced methods to obtain precise measurements. Roofr will utilize satellite imagery to determine the exact roof dimensions and to estimate the bundles needed to complete the work on your home.

Roofing Solution

Architectural shingles have depth and dimension

Advantages of Architectural Roof Covers 

The double-layer roofing tiles have a noticeable multidimensional surface. The tiles stand out for their contours and depth. You can get them in shapes and colors that resemble high-end materials, like baked tiles, cedar shakes, and slate tiles. The advantages of double-layer tiles include:

  • Durability: Double-layer roofing lasts longer and maintains its appearance better than single-layer materials. While the costs of acquisition may be higher for double-layer roofing, the longer life and added value for your home can pay for the added investment.
  • Appearance: The double-thick roof types have the appearance of depth. They add value to homes because of their popularity and eye-catching results.
  • Wind resistance: The thick tiles do not resist the wind better than the thin tiles until they seal. Single-layer tiles traditionally have ratings of up to 80 miles per hour. The manufacturer's warranty requires a 6-nail installation pattern for a high-wind damage rating of up to 130 miles per hour.
  • Warranty: Manufacturers typically provide warranty coverage in the range of 40 to 50 years. The latest warranty trends also include a lifetime coverage for as long as you own your home.

Looking for a Hassle-Free Roofing Solution?

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Get started today by calling 866-819-5215 to speak directly with a roofing specialist. Call now!

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