Composition Shingles vs Architectural Shingles – The Best Roofing Choice for Chicago Weather
Before making a roof replacement, you need to carefully study this topic. No one wants to choose the wrong roofing material for a new roof, right? The two most common materials available in Chicago are composition shingles and asphalt shingles. They differ in their composition, appearance, durability, service life, and cost. That’s why today we’re going to look at all the differences between these materials and help you choose the best one for your home in Illinois!
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Chicago Roof Installers: Composition Shingles (3-tab Shingle Roof)
Well, needs to know about composition shingles? Then let’s get started! This is a fairly popular material in Chicago for covering residential buildings. Manufacturers in IL combine fiberglass mat, asphalt, and mineral granules together to form a complete roof system.
Main characteristics:
- The most commonly used material for residential roofing, especially in surrounding neighborhoods, due to its affordability and versatility.
- Good protection against water, UV, and wind.
- There are different colors and styles to match the architecture of the house in Chicago.
- A balance between cost and quality, cheaper than slate or wood flooring.
- Easy to install and maintain, light in weight.
- From 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality.
Besides, different types of composite tiles are available in the entire Chicago area:
- 3-tab – 3-tab shingles generally are a simple and cheap option with a flat appearance and three separate tabs.
- Architectural tiles – Multi-layered, more aesthetically pleasing, and looks like wood or slate.
- Luxury options – The most expensive and durable, imitating expensive materials such as cedar or slate.
- Specialized types – Resistant to impact or reflect sunlight to reduce heat.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
Architectural Shingle Roofing (Asphalt Shingles) in Chicago
In general, professional roofing services in Chicago areas use different terms for this material. You may hear names such as dimensional shingles, and possibly different types of asphalt shingles. However, all of these belong to the same category – architectural shingles. This is a premium type of asphalt roofing material that consists of several layers to create thicker and stronger shingles with a three-dimensional appearance.
Main components:
- Fiberglass mat – Provides strength.
- Asphalt – Protects against moisture.
- Mineral granules – Add color, UV protection, and fire resistance.
- Adhesive strips – Connect the layers on the roof.
Advantages:
- It has a three-dimensional appearance that imitates expensive materials such as wood or slate.
- Architectural shingles are thicker and heavier than regular shingles, and resistant to wind (110-130 mph) and weather conditions.
- Typically lasts 30-50 years especially when installed by a roofing company close to me with experience in ensuring long-lasting results.
- Available in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of any home in Chicagoland.
Composition Shingles vs Architectural Shingles Wind Rating
So, a composition shingle roof and architectural shingles are the same thing? Let’s take a closer look at the comparison of architectural shingles vs composition shingles and the difference between them.
Appearance
Composite shingles (especially 3-tab) have a flat, uniform appearance. Their style is simpler and less voluminous, so they are suitable for creating a minimalist look for homes in the suburbs. Architectural tiles look more voluminous due to their multi-layer construction. This type can replicate high-end materials like wood or slate tiles and comes in more varieties of colors and designs and thus you can be able to match the design of the house in Chicago and the suburbs well.
We also recommend viewing composition shingles vs architectural shingles photos to better understand the differences between them.
Cost
Well, what about composition shingles vs architectural shingles cost? The cost of a composition roof is less, it costs $70-120 per 100 sq. ft. but it needs to be repaired and replaced more often.
Architectural tiles are higher in price ($145-355 per 100 sq. ft.), but due to their greater durability, they require less maintenance and repairs, making them more cost-effective in the long run. To help you decide which option is best, consult with roofers near me for expert advice and estimates.
Lifespan and Durability
Composite shingles usually last 15-20 years and have a lower level of resistance to wind and weather (up to 60-70 mph). Architectural shingles can withstand stronger winds (110-130 mph), have a longer service life (25-30 years, some types up to 50 years), and better protect against hail and UV.
Eco-Friendliness
Composite shingles are usually made from recycled materials (plastic, rubber, wood), which makes them more environmentally friendly. They are easier to recycle at the end of their service life. Architectural tiles are made from petroleum products, which are less environmentally friendly. Although it can also be recycled, such recycling programs are less common. If you’re interested in using more eco-friendly materials for your roof, you can find a roofer near you who specializes in these options.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
Comparison: Laminated Composition Shingles vs Architectural Shingles
Pro Tips for Homeowners – Are Compositions and Asphalt Shingles the Same Thing?
Keep these points in mind to choosing the best roof for your home:
- Composite shingles come at a lower cost, but architectural shingles offer long-term advantages. While architectural shingles have a higher upfront price, they provide a longer lifespan.
- Architectural shingles have a more rustic look.
- Architectural shingles are more resistant to wind and extreme weather conditions.
Advice for Installation of Luxury Shingles
It is recommended to contact professionals for the installation of both composite and architectural tiles to avoid mistakes and warranty issues. If you’re searching for roofing repairs near me, we also have some care tips for you:
- Carry out inspections twice a year (spring and fall).
- Keep the roof clean of debris, moss, and algae.
- Trim overhanging branches and clean gutters regularly.
- Repair minor damage quickly to avoid bigger problems.
Conclusion
So, which tile to choose? Now everything is much easier because you know what is the difference between composition and architectural shingles. Composite shingles offer a cost-effective solution with a straightforward design, whereas architectural shingles provide both durability and enhanced visual appeal.
Not sure what to choose? Our specialists from a roofing company close to me will assist you in selecting the most suitable roof for your dreams while considering all your demands. Please give us a call to get a more detailed consultation and to determine an individual offer.
FAQ
Can architectural shingles be installed over existing composition shingles?
Yes, in most cases, architectural tiles can be installed over existing composite tiles. However, this requires a thorough inspection of the old roof and may require additional work. For example, removing the old coating or reinforcing the rafters.
What are the maintenance requirements for composition vs architectural shingles?
Both types of tiles need regular cleaning from leaves, moss, and other contaminants. Architectural tiles, due to their durability, may require less maintenance. However, regular inspections and minor repairs will extend the life of any roof.
How do I choose the best color and style for my home’s roof?
While choosing the color and style of tiles, think about the general style of your house, about the color of the facades, and about the colors of the area where your house is located. This means that a different color on the roof will help the house to be more conspicuous while a similar color gives the house a more classy look.
What are the potential drawbacks of choosing a cheaper composition shingle?
Cheaper composite shingles tend to have a shorter service life, less weather resistance, and a less attractive appearance. They can fade faster in the sun, deform under the influence of high temperatures, and leak moisture.
How do architectural shingles perform in extreme weather conditions?
Architectural tiles, due to their strength and multilayer structure, better withstand extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, hail, and snow loads. It is less prone to deformation and damage.
