Hardier than wood yet more affordable than metal, asphalt shingles have become the most commonly used roofing material for residential homes in Texas. But there’s a lot more to asphalt shingles than meets the eye. The three major types differ greatly in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. In this guide, we’re going to explain how, so you can determine which is best suited for your circumstances. For a broader discussion of how asphalt compares to other roofing materials, don’t miss our guide to choosing the right roof.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are composed of a fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules to provide color and protect from UV rays. “3-tab” shingles consist of just one layer of these materials, while higher-end asphalt shingles use multiple layers with increased thickness and higher-quality components.
As you might expect, that means 3-tab is the most affordable of all asphalt shingle types, which is great for homeowners on a budget who still need a roof with moderate durability and weather resistance. Due to the short lifespan but high affordability of 3-tab shingles, they’re often used as a temporary roof for rentals of fixer-uppers before a full replacement.
To get the most out of 3-tab shingles, a roof slope of at least 4/12 pitch is required for proper drainage, well-implemented ventilation must be in place to prevent heat and moisture damage, and regular maintenance will be needed to replace and seal shingles before tiny problems become big ones.
Pros
- Low Cost: Due to its basic construction, 3-tab shingles are a comparatively low price.
- Easy Installation: Unlike some other roofing materials, 3-tab shingles are simply affixed to the roof in overlapping rows. It’s simple and quick.
- Lightweight: Since 3-tab only consists of one layer, it’s comparatively lightweight.
Cons
- Lower Durability: The barebones build of 3-tab doesn’t just make it affordable — it also makes it weaker and less tear resistant.
- Wind and Hail Prone: With wind ratings around 60 mph, 3-tab is quite vulnerable to storms — particularly hail.
- Limited Styles: Compared to other types of asphalt shingles, 3-tab only comes in basic or muted color options.
- Shorter Lifespan: Compared to architectural or premium asphalt shingles, 3-tab has the shortest lifespan.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Upgrading to architectural shingles, homeowners can enjoy a more durable roof with increased curb appeal. What’s the difference? It begins with the shingle construction, which uses two or more asphalt-soaked mats compared to the single layer used by 3-tab shingles. This is where the extra durability and wind resistance come from, but it’s also the source of their classier profile.
Because architectural shingles use nailing strips, they’re also more resilient against blow-offs than 3-tab. Additionally, most architectural shingles achieve a Class A fire rating and much higher wind warranties than 3-tab, as we’ll discuss below.
And they aren’t called “architectural” for no reason — these shingles allow for much more diverse style and color options. Their thickness also provides pronounced light and shadow lines, which creates a dramatic texture and sense of depth on the roof.
Pros
- Modest Cost: For a marginally higher price than 3-tab, architectural shingles aren’t just a good upgrade but a great long-term investment.
- More Resistant: The multi-layer construction helps protect architectural shingles from foot traffic, punctures, and tears. Depending on the brand's quality, a wind warranty of up to 130 mph can be achieved.
- More Style Options: With a wider range of colors and patterns as well as a deeper sense of depth, architectural shingles can enhance the curb appeal of any home.
Cons
- Compared to Premium… While architectural shingles are a big step up from 3-tab, for homeowners who aren’t on as tight of a budget, premium shingles offer even more durability, resistance, and style, as we’ll see next.
Premium Asphalt Shingles
Premium shingles take everything to the next level. As far as asphalt shingles go, this is as good as it gets. While “special design” premium shingles offer unique colors or patterns but no additional strength, impact-resistant premium shingles are stronger and longer-lasting than other types of asphalt. What makes them tougher? The highest quality weathering asphalt, reinforced mats, and ceramic granule coating. That’s how some leading brands can offer advanced warranties of 50 years or more.
The higher-quality asphalt ensures enhanced flexibility and UV resistance. The ceramic-coated granules maximize longevity — and often include solar reflective additives to reduce heat absorption. And the heavyweight fiberglass or organic felt reinforces the core to prevent tearing.
What about curb appeal? Unless you switch to a different roofing material, it doesn’t get any better. Premium shingles can mimic high-end materials like slate, tile, and metal at a fraction of the cost. The increased thickness and sculpted shape can also create dynamic visuals.
Pros
- Highest ROI: While they’re the most expensive of asphalt shingles, premium shingles still give other costlier materials a run for their money in terms of durability and longevity for the price.
- Most Resistant: With coverage of up to 130 mph winds, algae resistance, and materials made to withstand severe hail and storms, asphalt shingles can’t get more resilient than this.
- Luxury Appearance: Enhance curb appeal even further with more depth, dynamic designs, and luxury color options — that can even mimic high-end materials.
Cons
- Premium Price: Compared to other asphalt shingles, premium shingles are the most expensive. While their low maintenance, long lifespan, and high durability make up for the cost, not all homeowners may be able to afford the upfront expense.
We’re Here to Help
Need an expert opinion? Don’t hesitate to contact the DFW Roofer team with your questions about choosing the right roof. Call us at (469) 751-4018 or schedule an appointment through our online appointment form
