If it’s time for a roof replacement, one important decision you’ll have to make is which shingles you want to use. And if you have a 3-tab asphalt shingle roof, you may be wondering if it’s time to upgrade to architectural asphalt shingles. There is a lot to consider when deciding between architectural vs 3-tab shingles, however, and we’re here to help!
While an architectural asphalt roof may be more expensive, there are benefits to making the switch. But how much does it cost to upgrade from 3-tab to architectural? Keep reading to discover the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles, their cost, and the benefits of upgrading to an architectural asphalt roof. This information will help you make the right choice when it comes to your roofing needs.
Table of Contents
– Architectural vs 3-Tab Shingles: What’s the Difference?
– Cost of Upgrading
– Benefits of Upgrading to Architectural from 3-Tab
– Accessibility
– Lifespan
– Warranties
– Durability
– Finding the Right Roofer for the Job
Architectural vs 3-Tab Shingles: What’s the Difference?
When comparing architectural vs 3-tab shingles, let’s first discuss how they’re different. While both are asphalt-based roofing materials, you can really tell the difference between the two based on their looks. 3-tab shingles get their name from the 3 tabs that are on every single shingle strip; they lay flat and are extremely lightweight.
Because of this, many homeowners are opting for architectural vs 3-tab shingles, as 3-tab shingle roofs lack dimension. 3-tab shingles are the cheapest type of asphalt shingles on the market, which makes them a great option for those with a tighter budget. This roofing material has been in use for a long time, and has been extremely popular due to its price and ease of installation.
Over the years with advances in technology, however, manufacturers created architectural asphalt shingles. Architectural, or dimensional, shingles are now the most popular asphalt shingle on the market today. They cost about 15% more than 3-tab shingles, but they last longer, have better warranty options, and provide more dimension and aesthetic appeal to your roof.
Cost of Upgrading
Now that you know the difference between architectural vs 3-tab shingles, let’s talk about cost. A new roof is a large and important investment, and we understand that cost plays a huge role in the decision-making process. So, let’s discuss how much it will cost to upgrade from 3-tab to architectural asphalt shingles.
It’s important to mention here that it’s impossible to give exact pricing without performing a roof inspection. This is because there are many factors that impact cost, from the size of your roof to its accessibility. Plus, the price of roofing materials are constantly fluctuating, and every roof is different.
With that being said, we can still give you a rough estimate as to get a general idea of what to expect. 3-tab shingle roofs will cost around $4.00 per square foot, while architectural asphalt shingles will cost around $5.86 per square foot. This means there is an almost $2.00 difference per square foot.
These prices will vary depending on the roofing contractor you choose to work with, the price of materials in your area, your roof itself, and other factors. However, an architectural asphalt roof will always cost a bit more than a 3-tab shingle roof. But are architectural asphalt shingles worth the extra cost? Let’s find out below.
Benefits of Upgrading to Architectural from 3-Tab
Architectural vs 3-tab shingles, is it worth upgrading? This answer will vary per homeowner depending on their specific needs, but we always recommend upgrading 3-tab shingles to another roofing material. Keep reading to discover why we recommend upgrading to architectural from 3-tab shingles.
Accessibility
To decide between architectural vs 3-tab shingles, let’s talk about accessibility. 3-tab asphalt shingles have been around for a very long time, and while they used to dominate the industry, they’re starting to be phased out. Architectural asphalt shingles are quickly becoming the most popular shingle type on the market today.
This is significant because 3-tab shingles are not only getting harder to find, but the color options are limited, and nearby suppliers may not even carry them anymore. This makes future repairs difficult, as it’s hard to find an exact color match, and may make it hard to find a color you like for your roof replacement. But why is this happening to 3-tab shingles?
The decreased production of 3-tab shingles is due to improvements in shingle technology. With new and improved technology, manufacturers have created architectural asphalt shingles. They are a higher-quality material, and look fantastic. And while 3-tab shingles are still around, they aren’t as easily accessible, and it may be hard to find the exact color you want.
Lifespan
A new roof is a large and important investment, and you want to get the most years out of it. So, let’s discuss longevity when deciding between architectural vs 3-tab shingles. Architectural asphalt shingles have a longer lifespan than 3-tab asphalt shingles.
Architectural asphalt shingles have a manufacturer-specified lifespan of 30 years, while 3-tab shingles are expected to last 25 years. Both types of shingles should last around 80-85% of their maximum lifespan. This means that you should get 25 years out of your architectural asphalt shingles, and 20 years out of your 3-tab shingles.
It’s also important to mention here that there are a lot of factors that impact your roof’s lifespan. This can include anything from the weather in your area to how the shingles were installed. However, as long as both types of asphalt shingles are installed properly, and you have adequate attic ventilation, then your roof should reach its maximum lifespan.
Warranties
Architectural vs 3-tab shingles, is it worth upgrading? Let’s consider the warranty options. One of the biggest reasons to upgrade from 3-tab to architectural is the warranty options. 3-tab shingles come with a 25-year warranty, while architectural asphalt shingles come with a 30-year warranty.
This may not seem like a huge difference, but with architectural asphalt shingles, you will have the chance to get a 50-year non-prorated enhanced warranty, as well. This will ensure that the manufacturer covers your whole roofing system for the life of the roofing materials. In order to get the enhanced warranty, all roofing components and materials must come from one manufacturer.
We also feel it’s important to mention that this warranty can be voided under certain circumstances. Improper roof installation and poor attic ventilation will void the enhanced warranty. This is why it’s so important to hire a reputable and quality roofing contractor to get the job done, no matter which type of shingles you choose.
Durability
Lastly, let’s discuss the durability factor between architectural vs 3-tab shingles. This is something that many homeowners don’t even consider when choosing roofing materials, but it’s extremely important. With that being said, 3-tab shingles are more prone to wind damage than architectural shingles.
Let’s use CertainTeed as an example. CertainTeed’s XT25 3-tab asphalt shingles come with a 60 mph wind-resistance warranty. However, CertainTeed’s Landmark Pro architectural asphalt shingle comes with a 110 mph wind-resistance warranty. They even offer an opportunity to get up to 130 mph by using their hip/ridge capping and starter shingles.
As you can see, there is a drastic difference when it comes to their ability to withstand strong wind and storms. With that in mind, a shingle’s wind resistance capabilities mean nothing if they weren’t installed right. This is why it’s so important to do your due diligence when hiring a contractor.
Finding the Right Roofer for the Job
Now you know the difference between architectural vs 3-tab shingles, their cost, and the benefits of upgrading to architectural asphalt shingles. And in our expert opinion, we believe it’s worth spending a bit more on architectural shingles. The benefits include added curb appeal, protection, and more life out of your roof.
With that being said, it’s completely up to the homeowner whether or not upgrading shingles is the right move for them. Either way, choosing the right shingle means nothing without having a reputable, vetted and experienced contractor to get the job done right. With so many roofers to choose from, however, this task can prove to be difficult.
We want to help with this, which is why we wrote an article titled, “5 Questions to Ask a Potential Roofing Contractor [For Professionalism and Peace of Mind],” to help with this process. Knowing the right questions to ask goes a long way, and can help you weed out the contractors that may not fit the bill. The answers to these questions will help you make informed decisions, and choose the roofing company that’s right for you.
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Elite Exteriors is the Southeast’s premier residential and commercial resource for unparalleled service, superior craftsmanship, and incomparable quality. And it’s all backed by an unprecedented lifetime labor and materials warranty! Not only are we fully bonded, licensed, and insured, but we can provide any references you may need, and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call today at 470-350-3024 for a NO-COST initial consultation and inspection, or fill out our online form for more information!