The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from heat, rain, and snow while simultaneously blocking out harmful UV rays that can damage interior furnishings or lead to premature aging on exterior siding. When considering installing a new roof or when you’re about to embark on a big-roof repair job, start by getting an idea of available materials. Asphalt shingles are one of the leading roofing materials in the US. Asphalt comes in many styles and colors – all of which have their own advantages. In this blog, we’ll discuss the different types of asphalt shingles and explain the pros and cons of each.
Three-Tab Shingles
The first type of asphalt shingle is the three-tab shingle. Three-tab shingles are one of the cheapest and most common shingle types in America. They consist of a single sheet with three tabs cut into it. The coating on top of the shingle consists of a layer of granules that help block ultra-violet light.
Three-tab shingles come in different thicknesses, which help give homeowners an insight into their longevity. The thicker the three-tab shingles are, the longer they’ll likely last but will also cost a bit more.
The problem homeowners have with three-tab shingles is that there isn’t as much variety as some other shingle types offer. They tend to blow off during strong winds, and they don’t last as long as architectural or luxury shingles. If you live in an area that frequently experiences high winds, it’s recommended that you invest in stronger, more durable shingles.
Dimensional Shingles
Dimensional or architectural shingles are also be called three-dimensional shingles due to the two layers of material welded together, giving them a three-dimensional appearance. And while you might think that the style is only for aesthetics and not much else, there are other benefits to consider as well. For example, these shingles last longer than traditional three-tab slates do.
Dimensional shingles are less likely to blow off because they are thicker than their three-tab counterparts.
They are also more expensive than the three-tab variety, but they make up for it by being stronger and lasting longer. They’re about 20 percent more expensive, on average. But people find them worth it because of their quality.
Luxury Shingles
The final type of asphalt shingle is the luxury shingle. There are more luxury shingles styles to choose from than the dimensional shingle, including ones capable of mimicking shake or scalloped roofing tiles. Like the dimensional shingle, they are quite a sturdy roofing option. Luxury shingles also look really great without costing as much as other materials like slate or wood.
Luxury shingles are the best option for customers looking to spend their money on a quality product. Their lifespan of 40 years and premium materials make them worth every penny, plus they’ll save you time and money on consistent maintenance and upkeep costs.
It’s daunting to pick the right asphalt shingle for your roofing project. Take into account your budget and the various styles available. Also, consider how long you intend to stay in your home. Give us a call for a free no-obligation consultation when you’re ready to start your roofing project.