What’s the Difference Between 3-Tab and Architectural Shingles?

Choosing the right roofing materials for your home can be overwhelming with all the options available out there. Some of the questions you’ll ask yourself when going over your options have to do with the existence of 3-tab and architectural shingles and how they’re different. To help you make an informed decision on which of these two shingle types to choose, we’ll discuss the differences below.

Design

The design differences between the architectural and 3-tab shingles are obvious, even to those with no roofing experience. Architectural shingles are made from multiple layers of asphalt, giving them a layered and textured appearance, while 3-tab shingles have a flat, uniform appearance and are made from a single layer of asphalt. Homeowners like architectural shingles as they can mimic the appearance of slate or wood shingles and make for a more aesthetically pleasing option.

Durability

In terms of durability, architectural shingles are the better choice, as they are thicker and heavier than 3-tab shingles. The increased durability makes them more resistant to hail and wind damage, plus architectural shingles are more resistant to UV rays, which cause shingles to deteriorate over time. Due to their durability, architectural shingles have a longer lifespan than 3-tab shingles with proper maintenance and can last up to 50 years.

One downside to this increased durability for architectural shingles is that they’re heavier than 3-tab shingles, which can be an issue for some roofs. An inspection from an experienced, licensed roofer can determine if your home can support the weight of architectural shingles and give you other options to choose from if your home can’t handle architectural shingles. Even though architectural shingles are sturdier and of higher quality than 3-tab shingles, they are more expensive to repair, which is something you need to factor in when choosing new shingles for your roof.

Wind Rating

If you live in Smyrna, Georgia, you want a roof that can withstand the wind from thunderstorms and severe weather. 3-tab shingles often have a wind rating of about 60 miles per hour, while architectural shingles have higher wind ratings between 80 mph and 120 mph. Living in an area prone to severe weather means you need to be prepared for the strong winds that come with storms and can potentially damage your home. Investing in a roof with a high wind rating not only gives you peace of mind during storms, but also helps to protect your home from costly repairs due to wind damage.

If you’re in the Smyrna, Georgia, area and you’re looking for a professional roofer, consider Adamson Roofing Company. Our licensed and experienced roofers can help you choose the right roofing materials for your home and provide quality installation services. Contact us today for a free estimate and ask about our financing options.