If you’re in the market for a roof replacement, you may be wondering, “is it worth upgrading shingles?” Many homeowners opt to have the same shingles installed, but either way, they still have to choose which type of shingles they’d like to use. If we see that they have 3-tab asphalt shingles, however, we always recommend upgrading to the architectural asphalt shingles.
Even though architectural asphalt shingles are more expensive than 3-tab, this option comes with many benefits. We also know the extra expense may cause some hesitation, as a new roof is such a large investment, which is why we created this article. Keep reading as we answer the question, “is it worth upgrading shingles,” and explain why it’s time to make the switch from 3-tab to architectural asphalt shingles.
Table of Contents
– Is it Worth Upgrading Shingles?
– Accessibility
– Curb Appeal
– Longevity
– Warranty Options
– Durability
– Cost of Upgrading Shingles
Is it Worth Upgrading Shingles?
So, is it worth upgrading shingles? If you’re in need of a roof replacement, and currently have a 3-tab asphalt shingle roof, we say, yes! Below are five reasons why you should upgrade your asphalt shingles from 3-tab to architectural.
Accessibility
To answer the question, “is it worth upgrading 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.
Curb Appeal
Is it worth upgrading shingles? Let’s discuss curb appeal. Curb appeal simply means how visually attractive your home is from the street. Curb appeal adds value to your home, and a new roof is a sure-fire way to increase your home’s curb appeal.
This is true for any type of roofing material that’s installed, but there are levels of curb appeal depending on your selection. With that being said, architectural asphalt roofs have a much higher curb appeal than 3-tab roofs. Architectural shingles offer more patterns and colors to make your roof stand out.
Not only that, 3-tab asphalt shingles lay flat on your roof, and the variety of looks and styles is lacking. However, architectural asphalt shingles have a pattern that gives your roof dimension. Some are even crafted in a way that can simulate the look of a shake roof.
But at the end of the day, curb appeal is subjective, and preferences will vary from homeowner to homeowner. It’s totally possible for someone to like the look of 3-tab shingles more than the look of architectural shingles. However, in our experience, we have found that most homeowners prefer the look of architectural asphalt shingles over 3-tab.
Longevity
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 to help answer the question, “is it worth upgrading 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.
Warranty Options
Is it worth upgrading shingles? 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, we must consider durability when answering the question, “is it worth upgrading 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.
Cost of Upgrading Shingles
So, is it worth upgrading shingles? In our professional opinion, yes. Even if aesthetics don’t matter much to you, it’s worth it in terms of longevity, better warranty options, and durability. And if you agree, you are probably now wondering about cost.
We understand that a roof replacement is a large investment, and for many homeowners, cost can be the deciding factor. And at Elite Exteriors, we believe in transparency when it comes to cost. This is why we created the blog, “The Three Types of Asphalt Shingles [What You Need to Know],” breaking down everything you need to know, including the cost, of the different types of asphalt shingles.
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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. We would be honored to help you with your roofing needs, and to answer any questions you may have when it comes to your roof. Elite Exteriors also offers FREE initial consultations and inspections, and for more information, give us a call today at 470-350-3024, or fill out our online form.