Roofcorp understands that choosing your roof shingles can seem like a daunting process at first. There are many different kinds of roofing options and even the simple asphalt shingle has a subset of categories. Luckily the experts here at Roofcorp are here to try to give you a brief summary of different types of asphalt roofing shingles.
Choosing Roof Shingles
3-Tab Shingles
This type of asphalt roofing shingle is one of the mostly widely used in today’s roofing world. The material is cheap and easy to install to which leads to lower overall costs. There are hundreds of different patterns and colors to choose from so it is easy to match the character of your home.
3-Tab shingles have a front end portion that is one solid piece that remains exposed while the back end is separated into three tabs that slide easily into place in an overlooking pattern. This ease of installation leads to low costs. The shingles itself has a very uniform appearance which appeals to some homeowners.
3-Tab shingles are cheap but a have a fairly short lifetime of around 20 years.
Dimensional Shingles
Dimensional shingles were created around the 1970s to appeal to homeowners who wanted the small price of asphalt shingle installation but the curb appeal of higher end roofing materials. The main difference in dimensional shingles compared to 3 tab shingles is in the cut. 3 tabs are all cut in one uniform size and shape while dimensional shingles are cut to imitate wooden shakes, slate or clay and concrete roofing tiles.
A subset of dimensional shingles are “designer” roofing shingles. These are shingles designed with a specific style in mind such as rustic or Victorian. Designer roofing shingles may also be referred to as architectural, premium or high definition.
Dimensional shingles are more costly than 3-tab shingles but can last up to twice as long from 40-50 years.
Impact Resistant Shingles
Impact resistant shingles are manufactured like most asphalt roofing shingles except they are reinforced with a fiberglass layer that leads to extra strength. They are better able to stand up to high winds and hail damage. They can also be ordered in many distinct styles and colors.
Like dimensional shingles, impact resistant are usually higher in cost. However, this type of roofing material can often qualify you for discounts on your insurance premiums.
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