Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice because of their affordability, durability, and versatility. However, with so many different types of asphalt shingles available on the market, it can be tough to determine which option best fits your specific needs.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss which type of asphalt shingle is best for your home and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What is an Asphalt Shingle & What are its types?
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for many homeowners in the USA because they are relatively inexpensive up front and fairly simple to install. Best Asphalt shingles are affordable, durable, and come in a variety of colors and textures.
An asphalt shingle is a type of wall or roof shingle that uses asphalt for waterproofing. But which type of asphalt shingle is best for your home?
Different Types of Asphalt Shingles
Selecting the highest-rated asphalt shingles is a critical decision that can significantly impact your home’s durability and aesthetic appeal.
Here are some of the different best asphalt shingles that you can choose for your house:
3-Tab (or Strip) Shingles
Single-layer 3-tab shingles are the original and most basic of the three types. They’re designed to withstand the elements in the right conditions for about 15 years. They are called “three tabs” because they comprise three individual tabs per shingle strip. These shingles are flat and uniformly cut to create a simple, clean look for a roof.
Three-tab shingles consist of a single layer of asphalt and fiberglass mat, making them both lightweight and budget-friendly. Each strip of shingle features three cutouts or tabs, which, upon installation, create the illusion of three distinct shingles. This design prompts the inquiry: does the shape of the shingle matter?
Pros of 3-Tab Shingles
- 3- Tabs Asphalt Shingles are affordable and widely available in the market.
- These shingles are suitable for roofs with steep slopes.
- These are easy to install due to their uniform shape.
Cons of 3-Tab Shingles
- It is less durable compared to other types of asphalt shingles.
- They come in limited design options due to their simple appearance.
- It is less durable compared to other types of asphalt shingles.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Architectural shingles feature two layers of asphalt bonded together. They are much more durable than 3-tab shingles and boast a multi-dimensional texture and appearance lasting 25 years or longer.
Architectural shingles are the most popular asphalt shingle, reportedly making up three-quarters of all roofing sales. They have a thicker profile and can simulate the appearance of natural materials like wood or slate.
Pros of Architectural Asphalt Shingles
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles have Improved durability and wind resistance compared to three-tab shingles.
- These have a greater variety of design options.
- longer lifespan and enhanced warranty coverage.
Cons of Architectural Asphalt Shingles
- Architectural shingles have a higher cost compared to three-tab shingles.
- They are slightly more challenging to install due to their thickness.
Luxury Asphalt Shingles
Luxury asphalt shingles, also known as designer shingles, are the premium option among asphalt shingles. They offer a sophisticated, high-end appearance that closely resembles natural roofing materials such as cedar shakes, slate, or tile.
Luxury shingles typically last 30 years and, due to their weight, have an increased wind resistance compared to the other shingles. They also offer the most realistic representation of old-school wood shake and slate roofs.
Pros of Luxury Asphalt Shingles
- Exceptional aesthetics that resemble high-end roofing materials.
- Superior durability and longevity.
- Enhanced resistance to impact, wind, and fire.
Cons of Luxury Asphalt Shingles
- Luxury shingles have a higher cost compared to other types of asphalt shingles.
- Some of the designs may require professional installation.
Laminate shingles
Laminate shingles are the newest type of asphalt shingle on the market. They are constructed from two or more fiberglass layers and asphalt, making them thicker and more durable than fiberglass shingles. These shingles are highly fire-resistant and can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance.
Pros of Laminate Asphalt Shingles
- Laminate shingles provide a more textured and layered appearance.
- Laminate shingles come in various colors, styles, and designs.
- Laminate shingles have a three-dimensional structure due to their layered construction.
Cons of Laminate Asphalt Shingles
- Laminate shingles are generally more expensive than three-tab shingles.
- Laminate shingles are typically heavier than three-tab shingles due to the multiple layers and increased thickness.
- Laminate shingles may absorb and retain more heat compared to lighter-colored or reflective roofing materials.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Asphalt Roofing
Durability and Lifespan: Asphalt roofing is favored for its resilience and longevity. Typically, there are three types of asphalt shingles.
Three-tab shingles: They are cost-effective and have a 15-20-year lifespan.
Architectural shingles: These thicker shingles offer a layered look that lasts up to 30 years.
Luxury shingles: The most durable and heavyweight, potentially ensuring a longer lifespan.
Laminate shingles: These can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance.
Climate and Environmental Resistance
The performance of asphalt roofing can significantly vary depending on the local climate.
Heat resistance: Areas with intense sunlight require shingles with good UV protection.
Wind resistance: In regions prone to high winds, one should look for shingles rated for higher wind uplift.
Algae and moisture resistance: Shingles with algae-resistant coatings are best in humid climates to prevent staining and deterioration.
Aesthetic Appeal
Asphalt shingles can dramatically affect the look of a home. They come in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their home’s architecture. The style and color choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired curb appeal.
Cost-Effectiveness
Cost is a significant factor, and asphalt roofing balances affordability and quality. Here is a simplified cost breakdown
Three-tab shingles: Three-tab shingles roughly cost around $4.25-$8.25 per square foot.
Architectural shingles : These are generally more expensive than three-tab but less than a luxury.
Luxury shingles: Luxury shingles have the highest cost due to durability and aesthetic features.
Laminate shingles: These are high in price due to their fire-resistance properties and durability.
When considering these factors, homeowners can better determine which type of asphalt roofing best suits their needs and budget, securing a quality roofing solution that provides longevity, withstands local environmental conditions, appeals aesthetically, and remains cost-effective.
Which Type of Asphalt Shingle is Best for Your Home?
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for many homeowners. They are affordable, durable, and available in a variety of colors and textures. When deciding on the best type of asphalt shingle for your house, various factors must be considered to ensure the right choice.
Evoli Roofing should be your top choice in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With a team of highly skilled professionals and years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise to handle any roofing project. We are committed to using only the highest quality materials to ensure that your roof is built to last.
Our reputation for reliability is unmatched. We consistently deliver projects on time and within budget. Customer satisfaction is our priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations at every step. As a licensed and insured roofing company, we prioritize your peace of mind. Trust Evoli Roofing for a roofing experience that combines expertise, quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
