Asphalt roof shingles have been used for more than 100 years in the United States. Their deep roots in our country’s history and their affordability have made them the go-to roofing material. If you are in the market for a new roof, then you may consider making the switch to asphalt shingles, or you may want to consider a different type of shingle roofing.

You may not have known about the other types of asphalt shingles available to you. That is possible as many homeowners are unaware of the three types of asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles come in three different types: 3-tab, dimensional, and luxury. Each type of asphalt shingle is different in its own way. The details below can help you make a decision on which to choose.

1. 3-Tab Roof Shingles

red 3-tab asphalt shingle

3-tab roof shingles are actually only one piece. They receive their name from the three tabs made along the lower edge of the shingle. Since they are installed with only one layer, these shingles provide a uniform look on your home. 3-tab shingles are a popular choice of shingles because of their color options and affordability.

3-tab shingles are built with a durable fiberglass coating and mineral granules. Unfortunately, 3-tab shingles are slowly being faded out. Their durability is good, but it significantly lacks compared to other shingles. Simultaneously, the types of aesthetics and styles of 3-tab shingles are not as broad as other types of roofing types.

Here are the pros and cons of 3-tab shingles:

Pros

  • affordable
  • color options
  • uniform look

Cons

  • short lifespan
  • slowly being faded out
  • lack of aesthetics

2. Luxury Asphalt Shingles

luxury asphalt roof shingles

With an adjective like “luxury,” you can expect these types of asphalt shingles to provide a unique look and protection for your home. Luxury asphalt shingles are meant to replicate other materials such as wood or natural stone. Wood and slate roofs are expensive. Not to mention, these roofs are extremely arduous to install.

Since these shingles are designed to replicate other materials, they feature a unique multi-dimensional texture. Rather than being flat or uniform like the 3-tab shingle, luxury shingles have an extra layer adding to their beauty. Unfortunately, that layer also adds to their weight, which is not suitable for all homes. The weight is all bad, though! You can expect better protection from the elements with luxury asphalt shingles.

Here is the breakdown of luxury asphalt shingles:

Pros

  • improved protection from the elements
  • replicate the look of wood or slate
  • longer-lasting

Cons

  • double the weight of 3-tab shingles
  • not built for every home
  • higher price

3. Dimensional Asphalt Shingles

dimensional asphalt roof shingles

Dimensional roof shingles are the most durable shingles on this list. You can expect a roof with dimensional shingles to last around 30 years or longer. These shingles are the most common types of shingles in the United States. Fine Home Magazine reported nearly three-quarters of all asphalt roofing sales comprised of dimensional shingles.

The durability of dimensional shingles comes from there multiple layers. Instead of one or even two layers, dimensional shingles use several to provide a strong roof against the elements. Even though you’ll pay a higher price than any other shingle type, dimensional shingles often come with a 30-year warranty.

On top of all that, dimensional asphalt shingles are gorgeous. Like other asphalt roof shingles, dimensional shingles come in a wide range of colors and designs.

Here is the good and the bad for dimensional asphalt shingles:

Pros

  • most common asphalt shingle
  • color options
  • durability
  • potential warranty
  • 30+ years of life

Cons

  • high cost

Which Asphalt Roof Shingle is Right for You?

Now that you know the three types of asphalt shingles, you can determine which is right for your home. Golden City Remodeling believes in residents choosing the best roofing material for their home. Our roofing experts can talk to you about the styles and designs available. We only use the most trusted roofing brands in the industry. Give us a call today, and we can help you choose the right roofing.