Asphalt shingles are a well-loved choice in roofing because of their affordability, flexibility, and durability, which are all important for practicality and aesthetics.
That is why in this blog post, we’ll explore three types of asphalt shingles to help you choose the one that best meets your roofing needs and improves the look and function of your roof.
*Please note that price ranges associated with installation may not reflect the final cost of your project. Prices are subject to change based on various factors such as local labor rates, material quality, and more. All costs established in this article are rough estimates based on average industry rates.
What Are The Different Types Of Asphalt Shingles?
#1. 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
3-Tab asphalt shingles are widely chosen for their affordability, simplicity, and reliability in various climates. Their single-layer construction features three uniform tabs along the lower edge, creating a distinctive appearance of three separate pieces when installed, commonly seen in new construction projects.
These shingles offer a clean and uniform aesthetic suitable for many homes with a lightweight nature that makes them easy to install. The construction includes a bottom base mat, a middle layer of waterproof asphalt, and colorful ceramic granules on top, providing both color and protection from UV rays to enhance durability.
Pros
- Affordable: 3-Tab asphalt shingles offer budget-friendly roofing opportunities
- Easy Repair: They’re simple to repair, reducing costs associated with maintenance and repairs
- Style Variety: Despite their simplicity, they offer diverse styles and colors
Cons
- Limited Lifespan: Lasting around 15 to 20 years, they have a shorter lifespan compared to other types of shingles
- Weather Vulnerability: Less resistant to harsh conditions and wind, leading to quicker wear
- Moisture Risks: Trapped moisture can cause decay and mold, needing proper ventilation
- Curb Appeal: They don’t significantly enhance a home’s value or appearance compared to higher-quality options
Installation Cost
Approximately around $200 to $500 per square
#2. Luxury Asphalt Shingles
Luxury asphalt shingles, often marketed as premium or designer options, are top-tier roofing materials designed to enhance a home’s curb appeal and durability. Characterized by their substantial size, thickness, and advanced construction, these shingles offer great protection. Made from high-quality materials like a fiberglass mat base, ceramic-coated mineral granules, and laminated tabs, they give the appearance of natural materials while providing unmatched resilience.
Despite their higher initial cost, luxury asphalt shingles offer extended longevity, enhanced performance, and increased value, lasting up to around 50 years. With a range of colors and textures available for customization, they are preferred for their durability, fire resistance, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice among those wanting top-tier roofing solutions.
Pros
- Aesthetics: Luxury asphalt shingles can mimic the look of natural slate, boosting curb appeal
- Durability: Thicker than standard shingles, they resist wear and tear better than other options
- Longevity: Lasting around 40 to 50 years, they reduce the frequent need and cost of replacements
- Customization: Available in various colors and textures, allowing ease of personalization
- Energy Efficiency: Some offer energy-saving features, improving the efficiency of a home
Cons
- Higher Cost: More expensive upfront compared to standard options
- Environmental Impact: Pose concerns due to production and disposal
- Installation Complexity: Requires expertise for installation, potentially raising costs
Installation Cost
Approximately around $500 to $700 per square
#3. Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Architectural asphalt shingles, also called dimensional shingles, blend style with functionality for residential roofing. These shingles offer a textured, visually appealing look unlike standard 3-tab shingles, with a thicker profile and multiple layers for increased durability and weather resistance.
Their unique design features, including shadow bands and irregular patterns, create a dynamic and visually intriguing surface, mimicking the look of luxury materials without the same price tag. With a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years and resistance to hail and high winds, architectural asphalt shingles provide long-lasting protection for homes in various climates. Though they may cost more upfront, their lasting performance makes them a valuable investment for homeowners seeking enhanced aesthetic appeal and a reliable roofing material.
Pros
- Aesthetic Appeal: Architectural shingles offer diverse colors and styles, enhancing curb appeal
- Durability and Performance: These shingles are durable, low-maintenance, fire-resistant, insect-resistant, and resilient to various weather conditions. Quality architectural shingles are wind-resistant, typically rated up to 130 mph or more.
- Installation and Maintenance: Architectural shingles are quick to install, saving you money on labor costs.
- Energy Efficiency: Some shingles have reflective granules, improving energy efficiency and reducing cooling costs.
Cons
- Installation Limitations: These can’t be installed during extreme weather and require a pitch of at least 4/12
- Environmental Impact: The production of these shingles causes environmental concerns, although recycling efforts are improving
- Potential Damage: Heavy hail and friction can damage shingles and cause granules to loosen
Installation Cost
Approximately around $400 to $600 per square
3 Best Types Of Asphalt Shingle Manufacturers & Products
#1. GAF
GAF, a reputable roofing manufacturer, offers the Royal Sovereign® shingles, renowned for their exceptional wind resistance with a ASTM D7158 Class H rating. Featuring Advanced Protection® technology, these shingles undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure longevity, performance, and weather resistance.
Notable for their StainGuard® Protection which actively prevents blue-green algae growth, these shingles also maintain aesthetic appeal over time with Color Lock™ technology and come in seven colors. Backed by a 25-year Limited Warranty, homeowners trust the Royal Sovereign series for its durability, solidifying GAF’s reputation as a trusted provider of top-tier roofing solutions.
Price Per Square
Approximately around $90 to $160
#2. CertainTeed®
CertainTeed, a renowned roofing manufacturer, is known for its high-quality roofing materials, including its premium Grand Manor® luxury shingle line. These multi-layered laminated shingles give the appearance of natural slate and offer exceptional durability and performance.
Integrated with StreakFighter® Protection to repel algae, these shingles maintain long-lasting aesthetic appeal. With color options and a lifetime-limited warranty, Class A fire resistance, algae resistance, and a 110 mph wind warranty (with an ability to upgrade to 130 mph), Grand Manor shingles offer homeowners peace of mind and superior protection, making them the preferred choice for enhancing home exteriors.
Price Per Square
Approximately around $90 to $170
#3. Owens Corning
Owens Corning’s Duration® shingles are renowned as a premium roofing product favored for their quality, durability, and trusted architectural shingles. These shingles reflect the company’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, with several key features and benefits.
They offer true coverage and excel in granule retention, thanks to their SureNail® Technology, which ensures superior strength and durability. This technology incorporates a wide fabric strip that facilitates precise installation and provides excellent gripping power, along with triple-layer reinforcement. Moreover, they come with a limited lifetime warranty and a robust 130 mph wind warranty, underlining their resilience against extreme weather. The warranties provided, including the Limited Lifetime warranty and other enhanced options such as the Platinum warranty, offer comprehensive coverage for both materials and workmanship, ensuring peace of mind and reliability.
Price Per Square
Approximately around $80 to $150
What Type Of Asphalt Shingles Qualify For Tax Credits?
For an asphalt shingle roof to be eligible for tax credits it meet specific energy efficiency and environmental standards. The product should be Energy Star certified and contain cooling granules or coatings to reduce heat transfer. Reflecting more sunlight, these shingles lower the surface temperature of the roof and contribute to energy savings.
Qualification Requirements:
- Energy Star Certification: Shingles must be Energy Star certified for energy efficiency
- Cooling Granules or Coatings: The shingles should have components that deflect heat from the sun, improving energy efficiency
- Reflective Properties: Certified shingles reflect sunlight, reducing roof temperature and saving energy
Tax Credit Details:
Homeowners can get a tax credit of up to 10% of the replacement cost for qualifying asphalt roofing materials. This credit applies within specific calendar years, offering relief on the overall tax burden. While the credit amount may not be substantial, the long-term energy savings brought on by using these materials benefit homeowners.
Conclusion
When choosing asphalt shingles for your roof, consider key factors like budget, design preferences, and local environmental conditions. Whether you prefer traditional 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles for added depth, or luxury shingles for impact-resistant, each type offers unique benefits. Evaluate strengths and weaknesses carefully, and consult with a trusted roofing contractor for guidance.
For professional guidance, Clear Cut Xteriors is committed to assisting you in making the right choice for your roofing needs. With our expertise and high-quality asphalt shingle installations, we ensure that your home’s roof remains beautiful and resilient. Trust Clear Cut Xteriors for quality and professionalism in asphalt shingle solutions. Give us a call today at (651) 340-2839 to find out how we can help you!
