Roofing Asphalt Shingles

The great thing about your home is how customizable it is;  you can add a game room, renovate a bathroom, incorporate a lounge area or just add a dog or cat, the options are endless! You also have several choices when it comes to your roof and we’re here to help with your decision and exceed your expectations.

In the midwest asphalt shingles are the most popular roof covering; but shingles come in a variety of textures commonly known as slate, clay, cedar/wood shake, and of course asphalt. Asphalt shingles come in several varieties: the most popular are 3- tab and architectural. So let’s take a look at the differences and similarities between the two to better understand how we can turn your vision into reality.

Shingle Appearance, Size, and Shape

A 3-tab shingle is usually 36-inches long and is divided into three, 12-inch lengths, this gives the shingle its name. These shingles are the same style and lay flat on top of the moisture barrier and resemble a standard brick layout.

Architectural shingles are also 36 inches long but the tab varies in both size and shape and has overlap which creates dimension and a unique texture. Most people say it resembles a cedar shake roof with multiple different color options.

Pictured above is one of our favorite examples of an architectural roof! Check out the texture and how it blends with the siding, gutters, and window trim!

Weight, Thickness, and Lifespan of the Shingle

Architectural shingles are composed of a heavy fiberglass mat base and ceramic-coated mineral granules that are tightly embedded in carefully refined, water-resistant asphalt and because of the unique composition they weigh about 50% more and are thicker than 3- tab shingles. This contributes to a longer life expectancy of the architectural shingle in comparison to 3 tab. A 3-tab shingle can be expected to last up to 25 years and an architectural shingles can last up to 50 years depending on the variety. In addition to the limited lifetime warranty that comes standard with the install, manufacturers have extended warranties available for purchase. Contact your Above Par rep for any specific questions pertaining to warranties and be sure to review each product warranty on our website.

Installation

You can choose the most durable and best product on the market but unless it is installed correctly by a licensed professional, the roofing system may be compromised. You can cause further damage to the roof and add greater complications to your home. Call your local, licensed professionals at Above Par for a complimentary evaluation today!

Resistance to Wind Damage

Outside of hail, the second biggest threat to your roof is wind, While a 3- tab roof is rated to withstand wind gusts up to 70 mph, an architectural shingle is rated to protect against up to 150 mph winds.

Effect on Home Value

Kerri Nicketta, REALTOR® with Keller Williams Success Realty in Barrington IL, strongly recommends architectural shingles, “Potential buyers won’t just prefer the sophisticated and modern look but will also really appreciate the lifespan and durability. If you’re planning to sell your house soon or in the next few years, I highly recommend having a roof evaluation to determine any possible flaws in the roofing system and to identify how much life is left in your current roof. Installing a new roof will add value, and if you don’t install new, at least knowing the condition will assist when it comes to pricing your home.