When choosing roofing shingles for your home, it can be overwhelming to navigate the many types, styles, and colors available. Plus, everyone seems to have a different opinion on what’s best, adding to the confusion.
This guide will help you compare three popular types of asphalt shingles so you can make an informed decision:
- 3-tab shingles
- Architectural shingles
- Designer shingles
We’ll also discuss how local weather can influence your choice of roofing material. At Linta Roofing, we complete around 400 roofing projects a year in Myrtle Beach and often recommend architectural shingles for their cost-effectiveness and durability. However, comparing all your options is key to finding the right fit for your needs and location.
Comparing Asphalt Roof Shingles: 3-Tab, Architectural, and Designer Shingles
Asphalt shingles are available in three kinds: 3-Tab shingles, Architectural shingles, and Designer shingles. Each of these shingle kinds come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, which can impact the aesthetics, durability, and overall value of your roofing investment. Here, we'll go over the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for your home!
3-Tab Shingles:
$330-$450 (per square)
A 3-tab shingle is known as a builder-grade shingle. These shingles are made of a single layer of material with notches or cutouts that create 3 individual tabs along the lower edge of each shingle. These tabs are usually evenly spaced and give the shingle a uniform, flat appearance.
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Architectural Shingles:
$350-$550 (per square)
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are an intermediate roofing material designed to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and durability of a roof. Their distinct multi-dimensional look mimics the texture of natural materials like wood shake. These shingles have multiple layers, making them more resilient to harsh weather conditions.
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Designer Shingles: 
$400-$600 (per square)
Designer shingles are high-end roofing shingles. Designer shingles combine aesthetic elegance and extraordinary performance. These shingles are crafted to feature unique patterns, textures, and colors to maximize curb appeal. Not only that, but designer shingles also have superior resistance against extreme weather conditions, UV rays, and wear and tear.
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These options allow you to have some control over the longevity of your shingles and the look you are hoping to achieve with your new roof! Gaining a better understanding of the pricing for each type of shingle and the various factors influencing a roof replacement will assist you making a decision. As you determine the most suitable option for your home, consider your specific location and the weather conditions your roof must endure.
Choosing a Shingle Type Based on Your Location
Every type of shingle has an average lifespan, but this can vary depending on your location, climate, and weather conditions. Consider the following factors:
- Location: Homes away from the beach with plenty of surrounding trees typically have shingles with a longer lifespan.
- Weather Exposure: Shingles on homes exposed to direct sunlight, heavy rain, or extreme weather tend to have a shorter lifespan.
- Climate: For Myrtle Beach residents, we recommend shingles that can withstand high heat and endure hurricane season.
When choosing shingles, think about the conditions in your area. Do you need shingles that can handle heavy snowfall or extreme heat? Ask yourself these questions to help find the right shingles for your roof.
Installing the Right Shingles for Your Home
When it comes to choosing the right shingles for your home, you may hear plenty of friends, family, and neighbors say things like “lighter-colored shingles are better” or “you want a shingle that will last 30 years”. And while asking these questions may be helpful, it also can become overwhelming quickly, leaving you as the homeowner confused about what to do.
Now, you can silence all false beliefs by making your choice based on what truly counts: the lifespan of your new roof and the aesthetic look you hope to achieve.
Your roofing shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the elements. Now that you know more about the quality of each shingle kind, it is important to consider the factors that contribute to the overall cost of your roofing project.
As you gain knowledge about roofing materials and your chosen roofing contractor, we hope to provide information that will allow you to proceed with your roofing project with confidence!
