What are the different types of asphalt roofing shingles?

Why are asphalt roofing shingles so commonly used on homes?

Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing material used on homes across North America, and with good reason. They are designed to protect a home through decades of weathering with minimal upkeep and are available in hundreds of colors and styles.

Readily available and a great value

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing options in the US and Canada, and they offer a wide range of styles, making them an attractive option for homeowners and professional roofers alike. Asphalt shingles are also considered one of the more affordable options, making them appealing for a not-so-inexpensive roofing project. If the existing deck is in good condition, asphalt shingles can even be installed over existing shingles, thereby reducing tear-off costs and helping save money. Contact us to find out if this is a viable option for your project.

Different types of roofing shingles

There are three significant categories of asphalt roofing shingles available today: strip shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles. It is essential to understand the differences among roofing shingles to choose the right product for your home. 

Strip Shingles (3-Tab)

Asphalt shingle strips, commonly known as 3-tab shingles or simply strips, offer a classic, timeless look thanks to their flat appearance and slate design. As the original, most basic type of asphalt shingle, they are made from single layers of asphalt, which contributes to their lighter weight and lower cost compared to other asphalt shingle models. Before designer shingles were created in the 1980s, strip shingles were widely used amongst builders and consumers alike. Today, homebuilders continue to use strip shingles as an affordable option for homes, and homeowners typically opt for strip shingles to replace existing roofing on their residence.

Architectural Shingles

Asphalt shingles—architectural, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are the most popular choice for asphalt roofing materials today. As a superior product compared to other strip shingles, they are produced with two or more layers of asphalt fused, making them thicker and sturdier. Additionally, they have an aesthetic appeal reminiscent of natural slate and wood shakes, which contributes to their growing popularity. Furthermore, due to their robust construction, these architectural shingles often carry extended warranty protection compared to strip shingles. Ultimately, it is no surprise that architectural asphalt shingles are the preferred choice for many homeowners.

Luxury Shingles

Asphalt shingle—luxury is taken to a whole new level with the sophisticated appeal and unmatched protection offered by luxury shingles. As the highest-quality laminated shingles available, these heavyweight shingles make an impressive statement against the elements while providing a stunning aesthetic look that far surpasses traditional architectural shingles. With their realistic texture and varied coloration, luxury shingles give your home or commercial property the classic look of old-world wood shake or quarried slate roofing, while also providing unbeatable protection.

The dynamic benefits of asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles offer many benefits, making them an ideal choice for many roofs. Modern engineering techniques allow manufacturers to create specialty products across all types of shingles with impressive features, such as algae-fighting pigments and enhanced hail resistance, that can actually reduce insurance costs in some storm-prone regions. Additionally, homeowners located in areas prone to wildfires will be relieved to know that asphalt shingles are naturally fire-resistant. Asphalt shingle technology has improved further with the introduction of heat-reflecting colors for roofs, helping homes stay cool and reduce air-conditioning costs! Ultimately, it is clear why asphalt shingles are a popular choice for many housing needs.