When you think about protecting your home from the elements, architectural roof shingles are one of the first things that should come to mind. They aren’t just about covering your roof they’re about enhancing your home’s beauty, improving its durability, and ensuring you get the most out of your investment. At Next Door Roofing, we work with homeowners every day who are looking for long-lasting solutions, and architectural shingles are often at the top of the list.
In this article, we’re diving deep into what architectural roof shingles are, why they’ve become the go-to choice for many homeowners, how they compare to traditional roofing materials, and how you can make the right choice for your property.
What Are Architectural Roof Shingles?
When people hear the term architectural roof shingles, they often wonder what makes them different from basic shingles. Architectural shingles (also called dimensional shingles or laminate shingles) are an upgraded version of traditional asphalt shingles. Not only do they protect your home, but they also enhance its appearance.
Standard 3-tab shingles are flat with a uniform pattern, while architectural shingles are built with multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass. Layers are fused to create a thicker, heavier shingle that stands out visually. Adding thickness gives your roof a dimensional appearance, similar to natural materials like cedar shakes or slate tiles, without the high cost.
Strength and style make architectural roof shingles appealing. Because they’re thicker, they can withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and minor hail. For areas that experience storms or strong seasonal winds, architectural shingles are rated to withstand winds up to 120-130 mph.
There are also many colors and styles to choose from. Architectural shingles can complement your home’s architecture, whether you want a classic, rustic, or modern look. Their versatility makes them a popular choice for both new construction and roof replacement.
The architectural roof shingle is considered a premium roofing material because it is stronger, longer-lasting, and more attractive than traditional shingles, while still being more affordable and easier to maintain than luxury materials.
Why Choose Architectural Roof Shingles for Your Home?
Choosing a new roof or selecting materials for a new house isn’t just about cost; it’s about finding the right balance between durability, visual appeal, and long-term value. There is no better place to display architectural roof shingles than here. Homeowners who want a roof that not only performs well but also looks aesthetically pleasing have come to love them.
These architectural shingles last a long time, can stand up to bad weather, and look nice without costing a lot. Here are the main reasons why Next Door Roofing tells people to get them.
1. Enhanced Durability
Architectural roof shingles are renowned for their exceptional durability, a key selling point. Multiple laminated asphalt and fibreglass layers create a shingle that’s significantly thicker and heavier than a standard 3-tab shingle. The extra weight makes the shingles more resistant to curling, cracking, and wind uplift.
Today, the majority of architectural shingles available on the market are rated to withstand wind speeds of 120 to 130 miles per hour. Strong winds, hail, or heavy rain can be very bad for people who live in places that are prone to storms. Fewer shingles are likely to blow off during bad weather, which means less damage from the storm.
2. Longer Lifespan
It’s a significant investment, and most homeowners don’t want to replace their roofs anytime soon. Asphalt shingles usually last 15 to 20 years, depending on climate and maintenance. A properly maintained architectural roof shingle will last 25 to 30 years, while some premium lines may even last 40 years or more.
Their multi-layer design and higher-quality materials contribute to this longer lifespan. A basic roof can last nearly twice as long with architectural shingles, without the high cost of luxury roofing materials.
3. Superior Curb Appeal
One of the first things people notice about your home is the roof, which is why aesthetics are essential. Architectural roof shingles resemble high-end roofing materials such as wood shakes, slate, and tile.
Architectural shingles create depth and shadowing, giving your roof a premium, upscale appearance. You can also choose a design that fits your home’s architecture, whether you prefer a classic, rustic, or modern style.
A premium roof can even increase a homeowner’s resale value if they plan to sell in the future.
4. Energy Efficiency
Modern roofing materials do more than keep water out. They help regulate the temperature of your home. A new generation of architectural shingles includes reflective granules that reduce heat absorption. During hot summer months, your attic and living spaces stay cooler, reducing strain on your air conditioning system.
Homeowners seeking to make their homes greener and more cost-effective can benefit from energy-efficient shingles.
5. Greater Value for Money
Architectural roof shingles do cost more up front than the three-tab shingles that are commonly used for roofing. The overall cost of ownership is lower when you factor in their longer lifespans, reduced maintenance needs, and improved weather resistance.
If you install 3-tab shingles, you may need to replace them in 15 to 20 years. You might not have to replace architectural shingles for 30 years or more. Over time, that means fewer roofing projects and possibly less disruption to your life.
Installation of Architectural Roof Shingles
The quality of the installation determines how long your roof will last and how well it will perform against harsh weather conditions. At Next Door Roofing, we take pride in delivering a meticulous installation process that ensures our roofs will withstand the test of time. Taking care of even the most minor details, our experienced team follows industry best practices and local building codes.
What to expect when you hire us to do the work on your roof and how we put ornamental shingles on:
Step 1: Initial Roof Inspection and Assessment.
We conduct a comprehensive roof inspection before installing new shingles on your roof. The team at our roofing company takes a close look at your roof to identify any signs of damage, such as rotting wood, leaks, soft spots, or compromised flashing around chimneys.
Moreover, the roof deck must be able to support the additional weight of architectural shingles, which are heavier than standard 3-tab shingles. Repairs or reinforcements are addressed before moving forward. When installed over a damaged or weak foundation, even the best-quality shingles will not perform well.
Step 2: Removal of old roofing materials
The first step to a quality roofing job is to start from scratch. We remove all existing shingles, nails, and underlayment carefully to avoid compromising the new installation. That step allows us to examine the floor underneath very carefully and identify any damage that wasn’t apparent a few days ago.
When new shingles are installed over old materials, they can cause uneven surfaces, leaks, and premature wear: more work upfront, but a stronger, longer-lasting roof.
Step 3: Preparing the Roof Deck and Installing Underlayment
The old materials are removed from the roof deck, and any damaged sections are repaired and smoothed before replacement shingles are applied. We then install a high-quality underlayment to protect against moisture.
If shingles are damaged or lifted during storms, underlayment prevents water infiltration. Protective coverings against water and ice are installed in valleys, eaves, and other vulnerable areas, as well as around openings.
Step 4: Flashing installation for leak protection
Flashing is a crucial yet often overlooked component of a roof. We install or replace flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents to make sure a watertight seal and keep water out of your house. You can ensure that your roof is watertight and that your home’s interior is protected the next time it rains or snows.
Step 5: Precise Installation of Architectural Roof Shingles
When it comes to installing architectural shingles, craftsmanship makes all the difference. The homeowner loves the dimensional look these shingles achieve when aligned and layered correctly. Our team follows manufacturer guidelines and uses precise techniques to ensure every shingle is positioned correctly.
We also pay attention to the nailing patterns and ventilation systems to ensure the roof is safe from wind uplift and has sufficient airflow to prevent moisture accumulation. Not only does the careful method improve performance, it also protects your warranty.
Step 6: Final Cleanup and Inspection
After the shingles are on, we thoroughly clean your house, removing all nails, trash, and excess materials. We then conduct a final quality check to ensure everything meets our high standards. To ensure your new roof lasts, verify that the flashing is tight and the edges are adequately covered.
After the check, we provide you with advice on how to maintain your roof in good condition, address any questions you may have, and offer additional assistance if needed.
Architectural Roof Shingles vs. Other Roofing Materials
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the various roofing options, including metal, slate, wood shakes, clay tiles, and more. So how do architectural shingles stack up?
3-Tab Shingles
- Durability: Architectural shingles are thicker and can withstand harsher weather conditions.
- Appearance: 3-tab shingles are flat; architectural shingles are textured and dimensional.
- Cost: Architectural shingles are pricier but last nearly twice as long.
Metal Roofing
- Cost: Metal roofing is more expensive upfront.
- Appearance: Architectural shingles mimic traditional roofing styles; metal offers a modern look.
- Maintenance: Both are low maintenance, but shingles are easier to replace in small sections.
Wood Shakes
- Cost & Maintenance: Wood shakes are beautiful but high-maintenance and costly. Architectural shingles offer the same rustic look without constant upkeep.
Cost of Architectural Roof Shingles
Architectural shingles are more expensive than basic asphalt shingles but much cheaper than slate or tile. On average, expect:
- Material cost: $100 – $200 per square (100 sq. ft.)
- Installed cost: $350 – $550 per square (varies by region and roof complexity)
While upfront costs are higher, the added lifespan and fewer repairs make them a cost-effective choice over time.
Architectural Shingle Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your architectural roof shingles isn’t complicated, but it’s important:
- Schedule Annual Inspections: Catch small issues like loose shingles or flashing damage before they become leaks.
- Keep Gutters Clean: Prevent water backup that can damage shingles and fascia.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Reduce debris buildup and minimize impact damage during storms.
- Address Moss and Algae Growth: Use safe cleaning methods to prevent deterioration.
- Fix Damage Quickly: Replace missing or damaged shingles promptly to prevent leaks.
FAQs About Architectural Roof Shingles
1. Are architectural roof shingles worth the extra cost?
Absolutely. While they cost more upfront than 3-tab shingles, their longer lifespan, better durability, and improved curb appeal make them a smarter investment.
2. Can architectural shingles handle severe weather?
Yes. Many are rated for winds up to 130 mph and are more resistant to hail and heavy rain than traditional asphalt shingles.
3. Do architectural shingles require special maintenance?
Not really just standard roof care like annual inspections, gutter cleaning, and timely repairs.
4. Can I upgrade to architectural shingles from 3-tab shingles?
Yes. Most homes can easily switch to architectural shingles during replacement without structural changes.
5. How long does installation take?
Most installations are completed within a few days, depending on roof size and weather conditions.
Conclusion:
Architectural roof shingles are the best choice for homeowners who want style, durability, and value. This option gives your home long-lasting protection and a beautiful look that makes it look better from the street, whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old one. We help people pick out the best materials for their homes every day at Next Door Roofing, and architectural shingles are often at the top of that list.
If you want to upgrade your roof, give us a call right now to set up an inspection or get a free estimate. There are many choices for a new roof. We’ll help you understand the costs and make sure the roof is built to last.