Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles: What’s the Difference?

By Industrial Degreasers

August 28, 2023

Asphalt shingles are some of the most popular roofing materials on the market. Known for their durability and longevity, this material is a common choice for homes. However, there is another type of shingle that is increasing in popularity: architectural shingles.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the difference between asphalt and architectural shingles.

Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles: What’s the Difference?

When properly taken care of, asphalt-based shingles can last about 30 years. They consist of a hardened mixture of waterproof materials such as:

Fiberglass
Asphalt
Granules
Sealant
Release film

The most common variety of these shingles is known as the 3-tab. The 3-tab variety is what you see on most residences.

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are a more high-end version of asphalt-based shingles and are all-around more versatile and durable. They are thicker than the standard 3-tab shingles, allowing them to defend your roof against the elements better.

When it comes to the difference in appearance between these two types of roofing materials, architectural shingles are often considered more attractive. Unlike the 3-tab, architectural shingles come in different shapes and styles that can be overlapped to create different designs, while 3-tabs can only be laid in one direction with little room for variety.

The downside of architectural shingles is that they can be more expensive than the 3-tab. However, they tend to have a longer lifespan than the 3-tab and make for a better investment.

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