Why would you choose dimensional shingles over 3-tab shingles? The two types of shingles are made in very different ways. 3-tab shingles are constructed of three individual asphalt tabs. These tabs are one foot wide and placed in a repeating pattern. On the other hand, architectural shingles are made with two strips of asphalt that have been glued together. These asphalt tabs have different widths and colors, allowing homeowners to create a custom look. Because of this construction, dimensional shingles offer more protection from wind and hail, a longer lifespan, and are generally more attractive than their traditional counterparts.
The double bonded layer of dimensional shingles makes dimensional shingles more robust. They offer more protection from wind and hail, with the heaviest grades able to withstand 130 mph winds. In comparison, 3-tab shingles are typically rated for wind speeds of up to 60 mph. They also offer better impact and fire resistance.
Because of the way dimensional shingles are bonded together, they can last well over 40 years
Dimensional shingles also last longer than traditional 3-tab shingles. Because of the way dimensional shingles are bonded together, they can last well over 40 years. Significantly longer than the typical 15-year lifespan of 3-tab shingles.
While dimensional shingles have several practical benefits over traditional 3-tab shingles, they were originally created as an aesthetically pleasing alternative for higher end clients. Dimensional shingles have multiple widths and colors, allowing homeowners to create a customized look for their home. They satisfied a marketplace need for a material that looked like cedar shingles, but performed like asphalt.
Dimensional shingles can be considerably more expensive than traditional options – adding up to 20% more to material costs. However, their considerable advantages more than outweigh the increase in cost. If you are seeking a higher-end look to your next roofing project, or are interested in shingles that will last for decades, contact New Heights Roofing and talk to a roofing expert about the benefits of dimensional shingles.