If you notice many new homes sporting beautifully patterned roofs in your neighborhood, these are probably the famous architectural shingles. Architectural shingles are helpful to the roofing industry and a much-awaited product for homeowners.
If you are looking for new shingles and want to learn more about architectural shingles and their growing popularity, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll explain why everyone is switching to architectural shingles and help you understand how they can benefit you too.
What Are Architectural Shingles?
You may also know them by the names limited shingles or dimensional shingles. They are currently the most popular roofing materials in the US. Architectural shingles are made from a wide range of materials, including asphalt, fiberglass, mineral, and clay granules. They have two layers of shingle strips laminated together, which makes them 2 times thicker than 3-tab shingles. This gives them their strength and added protection, not to mention the 3D looks we admire and their flexibility in adapting to different types of deep textures and luxurious designs.
When Did They Arrive?
Architectural shingles were introduced in the 70s, but it wasn’t until the 90s that they gained so much popularity. Their developments and demand have been rising since then. When people came to know about these shingles, the first thing that attracted them was the look and feel of these shingles. As they learned about the superior quality and benefits of laminated shingles, people were no longer interested in using flat, thin, and less durable traditional 3-tab shingles.
Here’s an analysis of architectural shingles, their success, and why homeowners prefer them over other roofing materials.
Architectural Shingles Can Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Architectural shingles are more beautiful and appealing than standard 3-tab shingles. They can fit all types of homes and you can get them in really attractive patterns that can give your home a scenic appearance. You can customize their looks and layer them in different ways to form new, unique designs. In addition to being beautiful, they also mimic other roofing materials, such as slate and wood shakes, in a genuine way! This enhances your home’s curb appeal, and with that comes a lot more benefits.
Enhance Reputation And Resale Value
People often feel positive about appealing homes; your neighbors will appreciate your efforts and hold you in high esteem. If you are willing to sell your home, its value can increase by 7-13%. Most buyers prefer a well-maintained home that looks beautiful and has a roof that doesn’t need to be replaced anytime soon. They are also willing to pay more for such homes.
Architectural Shingles Offer Higher Protection
This is one of the main advantages people enjoy. The resilience and strength of architectural shingles is something you cannot find with every shingle. They have a class 4 rating and better water resistance and fireproofing qualities. If you live in a state like Pennsylvania, architectural shingles can withstand heavy rain, hail, and snow much better than their 3-tab counterparts. The laminated shingles are also water resistant, thanks to the advanced bonding technology used in their manufacturing process. Due to this, they also have superior insulation power to keep unwanted heat, cool temperatures, and moisture out of your home.
They Are More Energy Efficient
They are thick, and they have high heat-reflecting properties, so architectural shingles don’t absorb much heat. This means you will use less energy to cool your home during warm months, and you will see a decrease in your energy bills. It’s also efficient in winter– freezing winds and temperature won’t pass through the architectural shingles, making it easier and more cost-efficient for you to maintain a warm and comfortable atmosphere inside your home.
Architectural Shingles Can Last For 40 Years!
One of the top reasons homeowners choose architectural shingles is because they are more durable and have an extended warranty. Leading manufacturers such as GAF offer a 50-year warranty, which is a unique element. They are sturdy, and their adhesion system and flexibility protect them from warping or cracking over the years. That’s all good news for homeowners because it means they don’t have to repair and replace their shingles for decades to come!
Architectural Shingles Are More Cost-Effective Than 3-Tab In The Long Run
Homeowners often ask us: Are architectural shingles worth the extra cost? The answer is yes!
If you’re looking at shingles and wondering which one is more affordable, you will see that the price of 3-tab shingles is less than architectural shingles, but most homeowners don’t get into the details. If the initial cost of a product is low, it doesn’t mean it’s affordable. 3-tab shingles will wear out after 15 years, so you will have to install new shingles again much quicker.
On the other hand, when you choose architectural shingles, they will stay strong for 40 years and they also come with a 50-year warranty so you won’t be spending on a new roof anytime soon. Plus, you will also not bear the cost of frequent repairs and high energy bills. Many insurance companies also offer discounts on premiums and pass your roof damage claims on top-quality architectural shingles.
These Shingles Are More Affordable Than Other Sturdy Roofing Materials
The cost of a new roof is one of the biggest expenses you’ll ever have to deal with, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of options available. Most premium roofs like tile and slate cost a fortune, whereas architectural shingles come with similar looks and strength but at an affordable price. Here’s the list of material durability and average roof so that costs so you can have an idea about the affordability:
- Hard Slate Roof (over 100 years) : $20,745 to $37,460
- Semi-withering or soft slate roof (75 – 100 years) : $15,000 – $30,000
- Tile Roof (50 -75) : $16,000 to $32,000
- Architectural Shingles (30 – 50 years) : $13,500 to $21,500
If you want to know about some of the best architectural shingles, here’s a list of expert recommendations from North Star Roofing.
Best Architectural Shingles
The industry gives you hundreds of products, but only the top manufacturers come with the exciting benefits you’ve learned about. GAF, Owens Corning, Atlas, and CertainTeed, currently offer the best architectural shingles in the US.
Owens Corning Architectural Shingles
One of the highest-performing shingles are their Timberline HDZ architectural shingles. They are also the fastest-selling roofing material on the market. The shingles have a Class A rating against elements, StainGuard algae protection, and the quickest installation technology. You will be looking at highly appealing designs and vivid textures that instantly catch the eye!
If you want to compare different architectural shingles or need help with the installation, we can help you.
Looking For The Right Architectural Roof?
North Star Roofing is the most trustworthy and top-quality roofing company in North Wales, PA. We have been helping homeowners get the roof they truly desire. We promise you fair prices and 100% satisfaction, and our experts will work hard to provide the peace of mind you deserve.
We are here for you if you want to learn more about architectural shingles and need the perfect shingle installation services. North Star Roofing partners with GAF, Owens Corning, Atlas and DaVinci, and Decra– The top names in the roofing industry, and we build the best roofs with the best technology!
If you feel we can help you, reach out to us at (484) 423-4103. We will be happy to offer you a free consultation and estimate.
