Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems Phoenix

Asphalt Shingle Comparison: 3-Tab vs Architectural Shingles (And Which Is Best for You)

Are you considering a new asphalt roof installation for your home in Phoenix? When undergoing a new roof installation, you must pick a type of roofing that will last for many years and protect you from the monsoons, haboobs, thunderstorms, harsh winds, hail, and tornadoes in Phoenix. There are many types of asphalt shingles that you can choose from and each has unique benefits for your home. The two most popular types of asphalt shingles are three-tab and architectural. So, what are the differences between the two types of asphalt shingles, and which one is best for your Phoenix residence?

In this article, we’ll dive into:

  • Three-Tab vs Architectural shingles
  • Pros and cons of asphalt shingles
  • Information about Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems

Phoenix Roofing: Asphalt Shingle Comparison 

Three-Tab Shingles: Cost-Effective & Practical

Three-tab shingles are a great, affordable choice for budget homes and rental properties.

Style & Composition: Three-tab shingles are made from asphalt and designed with a flat, uniform look and three tabs. These shingles are constructed of a single-layered uniform shingle with granules and adhesives for the outermost layer and fiberglass for the backing. In addition, these types of shingles are easy to install and suitable for various roof styles.

asphalt shingle comparison in Phoenix

Sturdiness & Longevity: Three-tab shingles are still durable against the weather, but they do tend to need to be replaced more often than other types of asphalt shingles. In Phoenix, three-tab shingles can last around 15 to 20 years. Three-tab shingles are the most common type of asphalt shingles and they are the easiest to maintain. These ratings may range, but three-tab asphalt shingles are often rated for winds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Cost: Three-tab shingles are the most cost-effective asphalt shingle option. The overall price will vary, depending on the size of your home and various installation costs. That being said, you can typically expect to pay less for a three-tab shingle roof than an architectural shingle roof. 

Architectural Shingles: Visual Appeal & Durability

Architectural shingles are a great option for homeowners who value long-lasting weather resistance and enhanced aesthetics. 

Style & Composition: Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, have a visually striking and dimensional look and are made with multiple layers. These types of shingles are made from asphalt and have fiberglass for the backing and granules and adhesives for the outermost layer. Architectural shingles are made with stronger adhesives and with higher-quality asphalt and are a lot more textured and durable than three-tab shingles. These shingles can be designed to resemble cedar shake or slate roofing. In addition, architectural shingles are a great choice for an energy-efficient roofing material and offer superior light deflection and cooling. 

architectural shingle advantages in Phoenix

Sturdiness & Longevity: Due to their high-quality design and durability, architectural shingles will not need to be replaced quite as often as three-tab shingles. Phoenix experiences a range of harsh weather harsh winds, hail, tornadoes, monsoons, thunderstorms, and haboobs and architectural shingles will have long-lasting resistance against these weather conditions and can withstand heavy winds of up to 120 miles per hour. If properly maintained and installed correctly, an architectural asphalt roof can last around 20 to 25 years in Phoenix.

Cost: Architectural shingles tend to cost more than three-tab shingles, but they are still an affordable roofing material. The final cost of asphalt shingle roofing depends on the size and shape of your home and the style of your roofing. 

Asphalt Shingle Comparison: Pros & Cons 

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

  •  Widely available and easily sourced from local suppliers
  • Simple installation and repair 
  • Cost-effective and popular for homeowners on a budget
  • A variety of colors and styles
  • Durability against harsh weather 
  • Enhances the curb appeal of your home
  • Can help reduce electric bills

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

  • Asphalt roofing isn’t recyclable
  • Asphalt roofing won’t last quite as long as materials like metal roofing 

Next Steps: Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems  

Ultimately, there are a lot of three-tab and architectural shingle advantages for your home in Phoenix. If you need more help deciding between the two types of asphalt shingles, reach out to Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems with your questions.

Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems has been serving the Phoenix community since 2003. At Next Gen Coating & Roofing Systems, our skilled team is dedicated to serving residents in Phoenix with high-quality workmanship and personalized roofing solutions. 

Call us today to learn more about our roofing services or to request a free inspection!