If you’re considering a roof replacement or you’re looking for a new roof, you might be wondering which shingles are best for your home. At Northkit Roofing, we carry three different types of shingles: architectural, luxury, and 3-tab shingles. You might be wondering if one of these options is the right choice for you.
As a locally owned and operated New Jersey roofing company, we understand that the needs of homeowners are unique to the individual. That’s what led us to create this blog dedicated to exploring the details of architectural shingles vs. 3-tab shingles vs. luxury shingles.
After reading the following blog post, you’ll be well-informed about all shingle types. Armed with this knowledge, you can feel confident that you’re making the right decision for your home.
3-Tab vs. Luxury Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles
When it’s time to find a new roofing material for your home, many products are available to help you get the best results. There is something for every budget and style preference, whether you choose three-tab shingles or architectural shingles. Get an in-depth look at the most popular options on the market today.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles Explained
This is one of the most famous asphalt shingles, widely available in the market. If you walk around the streets, you are likely to see these shingles installed on the majority of the roofs.
These shingles are made up of a single strip, with each strip cut into three identical parts, known as tabs. It is the best option If you’re looking for affordable and durable shingles:
- The tabs are of the same size, which helps in giving a uniform and a structured look to your roof.
- Almost every roofing contractor has expertise in installing 3-tab asphalt shingles. It can be installed on a DIY basis as well.
- This type of shingle includes the widest variety of colors.
Best 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles For New Jersey Homes
There are many 3-tab asphalt shingles products available in New Jersey to provide top performance. But the best ones are Royal Sovereign® shingles by GAF and XT™ 25 by CertainTeed.
Architectural Shingles
As the name suggests, dimensional shingles are manufactured with double layers of asphalt shingles, giving a 3D or dimensional-style appearance. These shingles are a type of roofing material designed to replicate the look of cedar shakes and slate tiles at a lower cost.
Due to the dimensional design, the shingles come with an enhanced look and texture and are also known as architectural shingles.
This dual-layer method used also makes them more durable than traditional asphalt shingles — as well as longer lasting.
Dimensional shingles are more resistant than the basic 3-tab, and they are better able to handle wind loads, fire, and hail.
Best Architectural Shingles In New Jersey
The following are some of the architectural shingles available that can give your roof an exquisite look:
- Pinnacle® Pristine from Atlas
- Oakridge® and Duration® Shingles from Owens Corning
- Grand Manor® from CertainTeed
Luxury Asphalt Shingles
The luxury asphalt shingles range results from the rapid strides the asphalt shingle range have made over the years. Luxury or ‘premium’ shingles have taken asphalt shingles to a whole new level.
This is one of the best types of shingles that vows to give your home’s roof a premium look.
These are typically thicker and heavier than ordinary asphalt shingles, with an old-world aesthetic reminiscent of natural slate or wood shake roofing. Whether you’re looking for a classic color or something more colorful, there are options in this range.
However, like most premium things in the market, these also cost much more than your regular shingles.
Best Luxury Asphalt Shingles:
- Carriage House® from CertainTeed
- Crowne Slate and Armourshake™ from IKO
Our team at Northkit Roofing works very hard to provide you with the best residential roofing services in Montclair. We are proud to offer Atlas Signature Select® roofing systems. We specialize in installing their best products, including Pinnacle Pristine shingles, and are eligible to offer other benefits and additional warranties.
We have provided you with a brief overview of the three major types of asphalt shingles now. Next, let’s delve into the architectural shingles vs. 3-tab vs. luxury shingles and which one suits you.
All the three types of asphalt shingles mentioned above differ in various parameters. These parameters are the following:
- Cost
- Design
- Durability
- Lifespan
Cost Of Asphalt Shingle
The first and foremost factor that plays a very influential role in your ultimate choice of material is the price of the shingle.
The traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles are the most budget-friendly material out of all three types. In addition, 3-tab shingles generally have a lower price point, which is a significant reason for their popularity.
Dimensional shingles tend to be a bit more expensive. The price of the dimensional shingle materials is roughly 15-20% more than their 3-tab counterparts. Luxury shingles are more costly than the other two options, but some people love how they look in their homes.
Design
The following important factor is the design of the material. Nowadays, price is not the only differentiating factor for architectural shingles vs. 3-tab vs. luxury shingles. How the roof looks visually is also very important for the homeowner.
The iconic 3-tab shingle offers a classic, traditional design, with a woodgrain look and affordable price tag. You can choose this look if you like a uniform and simple look on your roof. But if you want your roof to stand out and give your home a distinct, unique appearance, dimensional or luxury asphalt shingles are indeed the way to go.
Durability
When it comes to the durability of these three types of asphalt shingles, the luxury and architectural asphalt shingles are way ahead of the traditional 3-tab shingles.
Architectural shingles are much more durable than their 3-tab counterparts, making them ideal for just about any roof. That’s because the material is twice as thick, making it less vulnerable to curling — a significant issue with 3-tab shingles that can lead to leaks and water damage.
Luxury shingles are the most durable of the lot. In addition, these dimensional shingles are more resistant to weather elements such as fire, rain, storm, etc.
Lifespan
Last but not least, to put the conclusion for architectural shingles vs. 3-tabs vs. luxury shingles, you need to consider the lifespan!
The lifespan of your roof indicates how long your roof will last. The 3-tab shingles have a lifetime of up to 25 years which is good considering their affordability, but for the most reliable protection of your home, go for Dimensional or Luxury shingles. Both these styles can last for more than 30 years. The luxury style can stay even more.
Note: The life of your shingles is very subjective. This depends on the quality of the material, the area you reside, and maintenance.
Warranties
The asphalt shingles manufacturers know that the roof material plays a vital role in deciding the life span. This is why they offer warranties on their products.
3-Tabs are the most common and affordable option but come with a 25-year warranty. Dimensional or luxury shingles are more expensive than 3-tabs but come with a 30-year warranty — which is also prorated. These options can also give you a chance to increase your warranty for up to 50 years.
Note: Warranties are subject to the manufacturing company.
Final Thoughts
We hope you have got sufficient information about the three types of asphalt shingles and their capabilities from this blog. Northkit Roofing is a certified and licensed roofing contractor in New Jersey. Our team has years of experience installing various asphalt shingles. So, when it’s time for roof replacement, you can always connect with us for a free consultation.
Our team loves getting to know residents of Cedar Grove, Montclair, and surrounding areas. We would be happy to assist you in making an informed decision between architectural shingles vs. 3-tab shingles. Moreover, you can always schedule a free roofing inspection with us. Contact us today at (973) 396-7416.
