Architectural shingles are specialized laminated or dimensional shingles that add elegance and context to your roof. The shingles are constructed from a fiberglass mat base and reinforced with ceramic coating. A single shingle can consist of multiple layers of roofing material.
Dimensional shingles can emulate the look of other materials such as slate or stone. The advantage of dimensional shingles is that they weigh less and do not require the same support as tile, slate, or stone. Plus, they last longer than other materials they mimic, such as cedarwood shingles.
You can choose from a wide range of colors, textures, and sizes. Below is a brief guide to architectural shingles and why they are a smart investment for your home or business. If you have any further questions, contact Quality Roofing today. We are your premier roofing contractor in Florida and Alabama.
The Difference Between Asphalt and Architectural Shingles
Not all shingles are alike. Architectural shingles differ from asphalt shingles in key areas.
First, three-tab asphalt shingles contain a single tab size and shape with three different tabs that are typically 12 inches in width. Each shingle is reinforced with a weather-proof coating that resists moisture. Architectural shingles are either dimensional or laminated. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The shingles are also thicker than traditional shingles. As a result, they are heavier. However, they are not too heavy for most supporting structures. Plus, architectural shingles require fewer repairs than asphalt shingles. You will spend less money on maintenance over the years.
Two Main Types of Architectural Shingles
There are two main types of architectural shingles.
1. Laminated Shingles
Laminated shingles are constructed with a heavier base mat and multiple layers of refined asphalt. The shingles come in different sizes and shapes, giving them a more two or three-dimensional appearance. You have the flexibility to make different designs and patterns on your roof.
2. Dimensional Shingles
Dimensional shingles are slightly different from laminated shingles. The main difference is that they only contain two layers of shingle material that are bonded together. Random notches have been removed from each shingle, exposing the bottom layer. The result is a three-dimensional look, with different low and high tabs. Dimensional shingles are popular because of their aesthetic appeal.
What to Consider Before You Purchase Architectural Shingles
Before you move forward with a professional roof replacement, there are some items you need to consider, such as:
- Installing architectural shingles will cost more.
- Choose the right shingles based on your home’s current design.
- Make sure your roof can support the extra weight.
- Work with a roofing contractor that has experience with architectural shingles.
One of the most important things to consider when installing architectural shingles is the roofing contractor that you hire to do the job. There are some differences between how 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles are installed. Therefore, choose a roofing contractor that has experience installing these types of shingles.
What Are the Benefits of Architectural Shingles?
There are several reasons why architectural shingles are a good choice for your next roof replacement project.
Most architectural shingle manufacturers offer a 25 to the 50-year warranty on their products, making architectural shingles impressively durable. They are more resilient than regular asphalt shingles, resisting wind speeds of up to 120mph. They are also perfect for the Florida and Alabama climate, where humidity and salty air can cause early deterioration in other roofing materials.
Architectural singles do not break or crack when exposed to recurring high heat and sunlight. They retain their new finish long after the installation. Also, they resist mold and algae growth. Once your contractor installs the shingles on the roof, you will enjoy them for many years to come
On average, you will pay 20 percent more for architectural shingles than you will for three-tab asphalt shingles. However, the trade-off is that they last up to twice as long as traditional shingles. Originally designed for luxury homes, architectural shingles have grown in popularity because they are a substantial investment in your home.
Regardless of what type of home you own, adding architectural shingles to your house can raise its resale value by $5,000 to $10,000. The average return on investment (ROI) on a new roof replacement project is nearly 70 percent. Of all the roofing materials available, architectural shingles are one of the most cost-effective.
Architectural shingles are fully customizable and work in almost any residential setting. You can customize your shingles to suit your taste. No matter what you are looking for, the shingles offer a myriad of colors, textures, and sizes. They even take on characteristics that are similar to cedar shake, tile, terracotta, or stone roofing materials.
If you are not sure what styles or products are available, then contact your local roofing contractor in Florida and Alabama. They can meet with you to discuss your ideas; your project goals and what products are currently available. The right shingles will match the look and feel of your current home exterior design.
Any roofing material you choose needs to hold well in the Florida and Alabama climate. One of the main challenges that homeowners face is combating mold and algae. This is due to the high levels of humidity in the area. While regular asphalt shingles do a fair job of resisting mold, architectural shingles are far superior.
One of the biggest benefits you’ll notice is that there are no black streaks caused by algae. Manufacturers have solved the algae problem by creating products that resist algae, mold, and other substances that tarnish the shingle’s finish. Shingles are coated with copper or zinc granules that inhibit the development of mold.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
Quality Roofing offers premier roofing services for homeowners in Florida and Alabama. To schedule a free roof inspection, call (850) 204-0443 or fill out the quick form on our contact page.
