Architectural vs 3 Tab Shingles- Whats the difference?

Which Are Better? Three Tab or Architectural Shingles

Recently I was asked by a homeowner in Calhoun, GA -"what the difference is between three tab and architectural shingles and which are better". As far as I’m concerned there is quite a bit of difference in both appearance and performance. To understand why, you need to look at both types side by side as shown in the image above.

Physical Difference Between Architectural Shingles and Three Tab

Architectural (also known as dimensional, laminated or composite shingles) shingles are constructed with a heavier base mat which multiple layers of material are adhered to. This gives the “dimensional” shingles a layered or three dimensional look. Whereas the standard three tab shingle contains a flat layer with no dimensional “thickness” to it. Typically architectural shingles weight almost 50% more than the standard 3 tab shingles.

Aesthetic Difference

Dimensional shingles were developed in the 70′s for the high end home market. Home owner’s were looking for an asphalt shingle product that had the architectural appearance of cedar shingles while providing the performance of asphalt. By using the layered construction of the dimensional shingle it appears to have texture similar to cedar shakes. Laminated shingles do a much better job hiding imperfections in the roofing structure as well. Another option is to use synthetic roofing shingles which look similar to laminated shingles.

Performance Difference

Architectural shingles typically have a minimum of 25 to 30 year warranties. Because of the heavier construction they are less likely to warp and they provide much better wind resistance. Standard three tab shingles are typically rated for 60 mph winds while most architectural shingles are rated for 80 mph up to 120 mph.

Cost Difference

Today laminated shingles are available in many different warranty lengths from 25 to 50 years. Typically, the cost of architectural shingles is only about 20% more than the traditional 3 tab shingles. Some of the higher end 50 year products can be as much as twice as expensive to buy. One thing to consider though is the increased value of your home. laminated shingles help raise the curb appeal of a home and make it more valuable in an appraisal.

Shingle Type Summary

I personally prefer architectural shingles for all of the reasons listed above. In the Cities that we work most Calhoun, Dalton, Rome, Cartersville, and Ringgold- Architectural shingles are becoming more and more popular. Most Re-Roofs that Nw GA Roofing and construction Installs are Architectural Shingles.

How to Determine your Roof Pitch

Find Existing Roof Pitch

The easiest way is to use a tool called a pitch finder that can be placed on top of the roof, on gable end soffit, or in the attic under a rafter to find the pitch. This is a special tool and can also be used to find level, plumb, or any angle in between.

Another method is to use a level and framing square from on top of the roof.

Place a framing square on the up hill side of the roof with the body level and the tongue facing up.

Place a carpenters level in the plumb position against the roof and the tongue of the square.

Keeping the level tight to the roof surface, the tongue of the framing square, and the body of the square tight to the roof move the square and level around until the level reads plumb.

Make a pencil mark where the heel of the framing square meets the level and measure this distance. Divide the measurement in two, the answer is the pitch.

You can also use a level from under the soffit on a gable end to find the pitch. This technique also works well for figuring the angle cuts on siding.

On a ladder and under the soffit make a level mark from the soffit towards the center of the gable.

Measure 12" from the soffit along this line and make a mark.

Plumb up from the 12" mark until you run into the soffit again and measure this distance, this is the pitch of the roof.

The pitch can also be determined from inside the attic provided the common rafters are 2 X 8 or larger with the use of a level and speed square

.

From inside the attic make a plumb line on the side of one of the common rafters.

Align a speed square along this plumb mark and read the pitch along the common rafter scale.

Roof Pitch Chart

Use this pitch chart to give you an idea how steep a roof is when someone says the pitch of the roof is 4/12 or whatever it is.

 

Tips on Roof Pitches

There are several factors to consider when deciding upon a pitch for a new roof such as geographical location, aesthetics, and cost. In general the steeper the roof the more it will cost to build and maintain, but the roofing material will last longer before needing replacement.

Low Pitched Roofs

Are so called when the pitch is below 3 1/2. Though easier to work on and cheaper to construct asphalt shingles should not be used on lower pitched roofs. They require special roofing materials and will need routine maintenance more often.

Medium Pitched Roofs

This pitch range is between 3 1/2 and 7 1/2 and makes up the bulk of most new roofs in America. A pitch of 4 to 6 is the pitch I would recommend to anyone building a garage, shed, or similar building. These roofs can be walked safely by an average person and require no special equipment.

Steep Pitched Roofs

Are anything above a 7 1/2 and require special equipment to keep roofer's and material from sliding off, but will last longer than lower roof pitches.

Homeowner Remodeling Tips

There are many things a Home owner can do to increase the value and probability of sale in today's market.

1. Make Repairs: Homes require regular maintenance and repairs are a necessary component of home ownership. Procrastination gets you nowhere when it comes to home value. Stay on top of repairs as they are needed. And be sure to address large projects before placing your home on the market. For example, roofs are expensive to replace or repair. Many buyers will pass up your otherwise wonderful home when faced with roof issues.

2. Kitchen Update: Kitchens are a real selling point. Outdated cabinets, counters, and appliances will stick out like a sore thumb to buyers. Be sure, however, that you research your comparables before beginning a remodel. You don't want to price yourself out of the running. This means if while you love granite and travertine, other homes in your area are selling with laminate, you will probably not be able to ask for a drastically higher price that covers the price of the granite.

3. Roof: Replace your old ugly 3 tab light brown shingle roof!! Replace it with a nice 30 year architectural shingle roof. Did you know that in many cases your Insurance company will cover most if not all of the cost of replacing your roof depending on where you live and recent storm and hail damage in the immediate area.

4. Energy Savers: Buyers are looking for homes that are energy efficient. Low-flush toilets, solar panels, water filtrations systems, and insulated windows, blown in attic insulation, and proper ventilation are all inexpensive fixes for energy zappers.