What Are Architectural Shingles?

Most people expect to shell out $10-$20,000 every 10 to 15 years for a new roof. 

But what if you could double that timeline to 20 or 30 years? 

Fortunately, there are solutions that can help, and one of them is the architectural shingle. 

Three times thicker and heavier than a traditional shingle (and a lot more beautiful), architectural shingles are the go-to choice for modern residential roofs. 

In this article, we'll talk about what sets architectural shingles apart from traditional 3-tab shingles, including: 

• Weather resistance
• Pricing
• Lifespan
• Warranties

....and more.

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Architectural shingles on the left; 3-tab shingles on the right

Architectural roof shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, are a type of asphalt shingle designed with a more textured appearance than traditional 3-tab shingles.

Unlike 3-tab shingles, which are flat and uniform, architectural shingles are built with multiple staggered layers of asphalt, which makes them up to three times thicker than 3-tab shingles and creates shadows which give them a multi-dimensional look that is particularly striking when viewed from the street.

This multi-layered construction not only makes architectural shingles beautiful, it also makes them more resistant to wind, hail, and long-term weathering, which means, if you’re looking for both beauty and durability, architecturals are a great choice.

Materials Used (Asphalt, Fiberglass, etc.)

Architectural shingles are primarily made from a combination of asphalt and fiberglass, which are the core materials that give these shingles their strength and weather resistance. The base layer of the shingle typically consists of a fiberglass mat, which is coated with asphalt to create a waterproof barrier.

On top of the fiberglass and asphalt layers, mineral granules are embedded into the surface of the shingle. These granules not only add color and texture but also prevent damage from the sun’s rays. The granules come in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose shingles in a huge variety of colors.

Some architectural shingles also incorporate other materials like copper or zinc in the granules to provide additional benefits, such as algae resistance, which is particularly useful in humid climates.

Benefits of Architectural Roof Shingles

1. Durability and Longevity

Architectural shingles typically last around 30 years, with some premium options offering lifespans of up to 50 years. In contrast, 3-tab shingles usually have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

This enhanced durability of architectural shingles means that you can get anywhere from 10-30 more years of life out of your roof.

2. Resistance to Wind, Hail, Rain, and Algae

Architectural shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions better than their 3-tab counterparts. Their thicker, multi-layered construction provides greater resistance to wind uplift. Most architectural shingles are rated to withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph, with some premium options offering wind resistance ratings as high as 130 mph. 3-tab shingles, by contrast, are typically rated for wind speeds of 60-70 mph.

In addition to wind resistance, architectural shingles are also more resilient to impact, such as from hail or falling debris. The added thickness and multiple layers help absorb the force of impacts, reducing the likelihood of cracking or other damage. This makes them a great option for homeowners in Texas, where we get more hail than any other part of the US.

Moreover, architectural shingles are less prone to problems such as algae growth, especially if you opt for shingles with built-in algae resistance. This reduces the need for regular cleaning or treatments, further lowering your ongoing maintenance costs. 

3. Enhanced Curb Appeal

Their dimensional design and rich textures create a more sophisticated and attractive appearance, which can make your home stand out in the neighborhood. The enhanced visual appeal of architectural shingles can also increase your home's resale value, as potential buyers often view a high-quality roof as a key selling point.

4. Lots of Colors and Designs

Architectural shingles offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs, allowing you to customize the look of your roof to match your personal style and the architectural style of your home. Whether you prefer the classic look of traditional roofing materials like slate or you want to explore modern color palettes, there are architectural shingles to suit every taste.

How Much Do Architectural Shingles Cost?

Architectural shingles typically fall in the mid-to-upper price range compared to other roofing materials. They are more expensive than traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles but less expensive than premium roofing options like slate, wood shakes, or metal.

To give you a clearer idea, the cost of architectural shingles can range from $5-8 per square foot, including installation. In contrast, 3-tab shingles usually cost around $4-6 per square foot, while higher-end materials like slate can cost anywhere from $10 to $25 per square foot.

Factors That Influence Cost (Brand, Quality, Installation)

Several factors can influence the cost of architectural shingles, including the brand, the quality of the shingles, and the installation process.

Brand: Like most products, roofing shingles come in a range of brands, each with its pricing and reputation for quality. Well-known brands like CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning often offer a variety of architectural shingles at different price points. Premium brands may offer superior durability, longer warranties, and a broader range of styles, but they also come with a higher price tag.

Quality: Architectural shingles come in various grades, with higher-quality options offering better durability, thicker construction, and more intricate designs. Higher-grade shingles often have better impact and wind resistance, making them a more resilient choice, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions. These higher-quality shingles will generally cost more upfront, but they can offer better protection and longevity, making them a wise investment.

Installation: The cost of installation is another significant factor to consider. Professional installation is crucial for ensuring the shingles perform as expected, and the price for labor can vary based on your location, the complexity of your roof, and the contractor you choose. Generally, installation costs for architectural shingles can range from $150 to $300 per square. While you might be tempted to save money by opting for cheaper labor, it’s essential to prioritize quality to avoid potential issues down the road.

Architectural Shingle Warranties

There are typically two main types of warranties you should be aware of: manufacturer warranties and contractor warranties.

Manufacturer Warranties: These warranties are provided by the company that produces the shingles and cover defects in the materials themselves. A standard manufacturer warranty for architectural shingles often ranges from 25 to 50 years, depending on the specific product and brand. Some manufacturers offer different levels of coverage, such as:

• Basic Limited Warranty: Covers the shingles against manufacturing defects for a specified period, often with prorated coverage as the roof ages.
• Extended or Lifetime Warranty: Some manufacturers offer an extended or lifetime warranty that provides longer coverage, sometimes up to the life of the roof (which they define as 50 years). These warranties often include non-prorated coverage for a portion of the warranty period, meaning if a defect occurs early in the roof’s life, you may get full replacement value.

Contractor Warranties: These warranties are provided by the roofing contractor and cover the workmanship of the installation. Contractor warranties typically range from 1 to 10 years, depending on the contractor and the scope of the job. A strong contractor warranty ensures that if there are any issues related to how the shingles were installed, the contractor will take responsibility for the repairs.

It’s important to note that some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties if you use a contractor certified by them to install the shingles. These enhanced warranties can include both material and labor coverage, providing a more comprehensive protection plan.

What Is Typically Covered Under Warranty

Understanding what is covered under your shingles’ warranty helps you make an informed decision and avoid unpleasant surprises down the road. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically included:

• Material Defects: Most manufacturer warranties cover defects in the shingles themselves, such as premature cracking, granule loss, or curling. If your shingles fail due to a manufacturing defect within the warranty period, the manufacturer may provide replacement shingles or, in some cases, reimburse you for the defective materials.
• Workmanship Issues: Contractor warranties cover issues arising from improper installation, such as leaks or poor alignment. These warranties ensure that the contractor will fix any installation-related problems without additional cost during the warranty period.
• Wind Damage: Many architectural shingles are rated for high wind resistance, and some warranties include coverage for wind damage up to a specified speed (e.g., 110 mph or 130 mph). If your shingles blow off within the warranty period due to wind speeds below the rated limit, the manufacturer may cover the cost of replacement.
• Algae Resistance: Some architectural shingles come with warranties that cover algae growth, which can cause unsightly dark streaks on your roof. Typically, these warranties last for 10 to 15 years, ensuring your roof remains aesthetically pleasing.
• Non-Prorated Coverage: In the early years of a lifetime warranty, many manufacturers offer non-prorated coverage, meaning they will cover 100% of the cost of defective shingles and possibly the labor costs associated with replacement. As the roof ages, the coverage often becomes prorated, meaning you’ll only receive partial reimbursement based on the roof’s age.

Environmental Impact of Architectural Roof Shingles

As more homeowners become environmentally conscious, the sustainability of roofing materials like architectural shingles has gained attention. Architectural shingles offer several eco-friendly features that make them a more sustainable choice compared to some traditional roofing options.

Recycling Architectural Shingles: One of the significant advantages of architectural shingles is that they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Asphalt shingles, including architectural ones, are among the most recyclable roofing materials available. Recycled shingles can be repurposed into various products, such as asphalt pavement for roads, reducing the need for new raw materials and helping to divert waste from landfills.

Many manufacturers are now emphasizing the recyclability of their shingles, and some even use recycled materials in the production of new shingles. For example, some shingles contain post-consumer or post-industrial recycled content, such as reclaimed asphalt, which reduces the demand for virgin resources and lowers the environmental impact of shingle production.

Eco-Friendly Manufacturing Practices: In response to growing environmental concerns, many manufacturers of architectural shingles have adopted more sustainable practices. This includes using less energy-intensive production processes, reducing emissions, and minimizing waste during manufacturing. Some companies also focus on sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers or use renewable energy in their production facilities.

Cool Roof Options: Certain architectural shingles are designed with "cool roof" technology, which reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat. These cool roof shingles can help reduce the urban heat island effect, where densely populated areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings because of human activity. Cool roof shingles also reduce the amount of heat entering your home, which can substantially lower your energy usage.

The Upshot

Choosing architectural shingles for your roof isn't just about getting a longer-lasting, more durable option—it's about investing in the beauty and value of your home. With their enhanced weather resistance, extended lifespan, and wide range of design choices, architectural shingles offer a superior roofing solution that pays off in the long run. Whether you're looking to boost your home's curb appeal or ensure it stands strong against the elements for decades to come, architectural shingles are a smart and stylish choice.