Architectural and Asphalt 3-Tab Shingles Comparison
Every Illinois homeowner wants to live in a cozy home where exquisite style, convenience, and comfort are harmoniously combined. However, sometimes, it is time to consider installing a new roof or repairing an old coating. This means you must approach the issue correctly and choose the best local roofing material that meets all your requirements. Some people like standard 3-tab shingles, some prefer asphalt shingles, and some choose architectural shingles. In our review, we will compare 3-tab shingles vs architectural coating and tell you about the important features of each product.
Short notes about 3-tab shingles and architectural shingle
3-tab shingles get their name from their irregular shape with three distinct cutouts, which gives the illusion of separate pieces. This type of shingle is produced in many factories, which ensures its availability and popularity – you will easily find many different 3-tab shingles colors in your area. Also, 3-tab shingles are cheaper than the alternatives, making it a great choice to make a roof replacement inexpensively. What’s more, this material is easier to install, which further reduces installation costs.
Architectural shingle roof. This option is also very modern and pragmatic. This product is made from several layers of asphalt, so architectural shingles are thicker and have a three-dimensional appearance. This manufacturing process gives the coating excellent aesthetic appeal, and also provides a long lifespan. Architectural shingles may serve 30-40 years, while standard 3-tab shingles can last 15-20 years.
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Key Considerations for IL Homeowners
Understanding the difference between 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles is important in making the right choice. Roofing contractors in the Chicago area and Chicago suburbs prefer shingles as a roofing material for several reasons: optimization of the client’s budget, resistance to weather conditions, and design versatility.
Market Trends and Consumer Preferences when Choosing 3-Tab or Architectural Shingles
Evolution does not stand still, and the confrontation of 3-tab shingles vs architectural shingles has been gaining momentum in recent years. Moreover, the market is changing, and so are customers’ tastes. For example, an Illinois homeowner could previously choose an asphalt roof shingle, but today, the trend has changed. We want to draw your attention to the dynamics of changing preferences.
Evolution of Market Preferences
Some of the roofing companies near me may remember the boom of classic 3-tab asphalt shingles from the mid-20th to early 21st century. Such popularity was due to its availability, as 3-tab shingles cost little. Even today, you can perform a quality roof repair for up to $10 per square foot. Also, traditional 3-tab shingles have acceptable technical characteristics and are lightweight, which ensures trouble-free operation and easy installation.
Architectural shingles are made of several layers, which makes them thicker and also provides a textured appearance. Because of this design, architectural shingles are sometimes called dimensional shingles. This option is becoming very popular today, especially in Chicago areas, even though architectural shingles are more expensive than 3-tab shingles. Growing prosperity, decreasing material costs, and buyers’ focus on more advanced characteristics have led to architectural types of asphalt shingles gradually winning this competition.
Roofing installers near me predict a sharp increase in the use of architectural shingles due to its superior performance and aesthetics. Also, innovations in production will help reduce the cost, which will positively affect the final price. Over time, comparing 3-tab shingles vs. architectural shingles price will cease to be a significant factor when choosing. However, these two asphalt shingles will remain on the market and find their customers.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
Key Differences in 3-Tab and Architectural Shingles Features
We continue to consider the differences between 3-tab and architectural shingles. In this section, we want to compare architectural shingle vs 3-tab shingle in terms of design and main properties. In this table, you can see all the main differences.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
Lifespan and Durability of 3-Tab and Architectural Coating
Also, when comparing architectural vs. 3-tab shingles, the product’s technical characteristics must be considered. Professional roofing services near me focus on the following technical characteristics of roof coverings: strength, wear resistance, and heat resistance. If you choose incorrectly, leaks, deformation of the material, and additional costs are possible.
Performance in Extreme Weather Conditions
- Wind resistance. 3-tab shingles typically have a low wind resistance rating. Such a roof can withstand wind gusts of up to 60 mph. Architectural shingles are rated much higher – the roof withstands winds up to 120-130 mph.
- Weather resistance. 3-tab shingles are made of budget materials, which provide a small thickness. Such shingles are flat, which makes them more susceptible to high temperatures. Architectural shingles have an additional layer, guaranteeing better thermal insulation, and are optimal for regions with cold climates.
Durability and Warranties of 3-Tab and Architectural Shingles
- Budget classic shingles are available in any region at a nice price. However, this has a downside: the service life of such a roof is less than that of alternatives – about 15-20 years. Architectural shingles are much more durable, so the service life of such a roof can reach 30-40 years.
Whether you choose 3-tab or architectural shingles, it is important to cooperate with Chicago professional roofing companies. You should hire specialists who know how to install architectural shingles over 3-tab shingles and will do it with the highest quality.
Cost Comparison Between Chicago Roof Coating
These shingles are both asphalt, but the features of the production technology make their final price different. Architectural shingles are made of modern materials with additional components, providing increased wear resistance and service life. It is also important to compare the 3-tab vs architectural shingles cost to make your choice as correct and rational as possible.
Initial Cost Differences and Long-Term Expenses
Often, Chicago Metropolitan Area residents choose a standard coating, even though 3-tab shingles are less durable. This approach is due to the low price. You can find budget asphalt shingles for as little as $1 per square foot. This means a 3-tab shingle roof will cost from $8,000 to $16,000 for a standard two-bedroom home.
You can also pay attention to architectural asphalt shingles. Here, you will also find many options suitable in price and quality in Chicago. The starting cost in this case is about $2-3, but there are also exclusive options of architectural three-individual shingles, costing $9-15. In this case, reroofing over 3-tab shingles for a standard home is $15,000-$30,000.
Best Use Cases for 3-Tab and Dimensional Shingles
When comparing 3-tab shingles vs. dimensional shingles, it is important to consider other aspects, such as cost or technical characteristics. This approach allows you to make the perfect choice.
- Design. Pay attention to the type of your home. A standard 3-tab shingle overlap for a classic design will do, while more sophisticated projects require architectural shingles.
- Climate. Roofing companies close to me use architectural shingles for cold climates because of their good insulation properties. 3-tab shingles are generally chosen for areas with moderate climates.
A comprehensive analysis of all factors allows you to make the right decision. We also recommend consulting a designer so your project becomes a real dream home and becomes a reality.
Conclusion
Thanks to our review, you learned what’s the difference between architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles and can make the right choice. We discussed 3-tab shingles in terms of important technical characteristics and features. 3-tab shingles are a basic choice for thrifty Chicago owners who want an acceptable result at a nice price.
Also, you must choose the first option in the architectural vs. 3-tab shingle confrontation to get the most reliable roof that can serve without problems for 30-40 years. However, you must also conclude a contract with professional roofers near you who know how to install 3-tab shingles. You know, our experts can do it perfectly! Contact us and see for yourself.
FAQ
Can architectural shingles be installed over existing 3-tab shingles, and what are the benefits?
Yes, architectural shingles come with the ability to be installed over existing tiles. Moreover, installing architectural shingles over 3-tab coating has advantages because you get an additional thermal insulation layer.
What are the environmental impacts of choosing one type of shingle over another?
Please pay attention to your region’s climatic conditions when comparing architectural versus 3-tab shingles. The first option suits houses in cold regions with harsh climatic conditions. The second option is optimal for moderate climates because 3-tab shingles come with one base layer.
What are the maintenance requirements for each type of shingle?
Architectural coatings, like 3-tab shingles, require regular long-term and trouble-free operation maintenance. We recommend an inspection once a season and regular cleaning of storm drains.
How do I choose the best color for my shingles?
You will find a huge number of architectural shingles vs 3-tab pictures on the Internet, and each option has a large number of shades. However, the most popular colors in Illinois are classic black, brown, and gray. These shades provide optimal thermal insulation and withstand harsh weather conditions well.
