By Dawn Killough
02-22-2021
What Are Architectural Shingles?
Architectural, or laminate shingles, consist of two or more layers of material. They are made of asphalt coated fiberglass and are installed over the roof deck and underlayment. They also have a thicker coating of asphalt than single layer 3-tab singles.
Types of Shingles
There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, architectural, and designer. How do the other types of shingles compare?
- 3-tab or strip shingles provide a single layer of asphalt-coated fiberglass that is cut into equally sized shingles or tabs. This type of shingle typically comes with a warranty of 20 to 30 years. It’s available in a few colors and styles, and overall it’s the most economical roofing material (explaining why it is so common to see on homes).
- Designer shingles are manufactured to look similar to shake or slate roofing tiles. They work well on homes that require a specific style of shingle to match the decor or where it’s desired for aesthetic appeal.
Benefits of Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles provide many benefits over traditional 3-tab shingles. They usually provide better wind warranties, which can be a real advantage. When installed with the required combination of GAF accessories, GAF’s Timberline® HDZ™ Shingles may even be eligible for a wind warranty* with no maximum wind speed limitation. They also fit with most design styles. You can take your pick of shingles in several different colors and style variations. They look similar to wood or slate roof tiles, which fit many architectural styles and can increase the value and curb appeal of a residence in one easy installation.
These shingles have been increasing in popularity over the last 20 years, mainly due to their aesthetic appeal and their durability.
Are Architectural Shingles Good for Roof Replacement?
If you currently have architectural shingles installed that need to be replaced, you can replace your roof with the same shingle type. You can even take the opportunity to consider a new style or color.
If you currently have 3-tab shingles installed on your roof, you can upgrade your roof to architectural shingles for enhanced aesthetics and warranty options.
