Architectural shingles, dimensional shingles, laminated shingles, composite shingles— the roofing material with many names and even more benefits! Architectural shingles fit under the popular asphalt shingle category, and most homeowners choose them when getting roof replacements.

So what’s the big deal with dimensional shingles? And why are they the golden child of the roofing world? Let’s take a closer look at all the details!

How Do Architectural Roofing Shingles Differ From 3-Tab Shingles?

The main difference you’ll notice between architectural and 3-tab shingles is in the shape. Architectural shingles are thicker and have more of a dimensional look (hence the name “dimensional shingles”), while 3-tab shingles are flatter and have a more uniform appearance.

This dimensional look is created by layering the shingles on top of each other during manufacturing.
The asphalt base is coated with a layer of adhesive, then covered with colored mineral granules.
A second layer of adhesive is applied, followed by another layer of granules. This process is repeated until the desired thickness and size are achieved.

Architectural shingles are designed to be a more lightweight, affordable material that mimics the look of more expensive roofing materials like cedar shakes and slate tiles.

They are also more durable than 3-tab shingles and can last up to 30+ years with proper care and maintenance.

How Much Do Architectural Shingles Cost?

The cost of architectural shingles varies depending on the quality of the product, the size of your roof, and your location.

On average, you can expect to pay around $100-200 per square (100 sq. feet) installed. This may seem like a lot, but it’s important to remember that architectural shingles are a long-term investment.

They not only look great, but they also offer superior protection against weather and wind damage. On the higher end, you can expect to pay up to roughly $18,000 for an architectural shingle roof on a larger home (bigger than 2,000 square feet).

Even though there might be some sticker shock with this price, dimensional shingles are actually still much more affordable than other types of roofing materials. They’re more pricey than 3-tab shingles, but they’re still more affordable than metal, clay tiles, and slate. Most homeowners find this to be a happy medium because you’ll get impressive durability and beautiful aesthetics out of an architectural shingle roof.

The Pros and Cons of Dimensional Shingles

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of architectural shingles, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons to help you decide if they’re the right choice for your home.

👍 Pros:

Enhanced curb appeal: The dimensional look of architectural shingles can give your home an upscale appearance without the high price tag of more premium materials.
Increased protection: Asphalt shingles are already pretty durable, but architectural shingles take it one step further. The multiple layers and reinforced structure make them resistant to wind damage and other weather-related problems.
Easy installation: Architectural shingles are easier to install than many other types of roofing materials. This means that the installation process is faster and less expensive.
Large color selection: Dimensional shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles. This gives you the freedom to choose the perfect look for your home.
Lightweight: Architectural shingles are lighter than many other roofing materials, which makes them easier to work with and less likely to cause structural damage to your home.

👎 Cons:

Not suitable for all climates: In areas with severe weather conditions (high wind, hail, etc.), architectural shingles may not offer enough protection. In these cases, it’s best to consult with a professional roofer to see what your best options are.
Not as durable as other materials: While architectural shingles are more durable than 3-tab shingles, they still don’t offer the same level of protection as materials like metal or slate. Can be more expensive: The initial cost of architectural shingles is typically higher than other types of asphalt shingles. However, you have to consider the long-term savings you’ll get from their increased durability and easy maintenance.
Not as eco-friendly: Architectural shingles are made with asphalt, which is a petroleum product. This means that they’re not as eco-friendly as some other roofing materials like metal or slate. They also frequently end up in landfills after they serve their term on someone’s roof.

Are They Right for Your Home?

If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish roofing material that offers enhanced protection against the elements, architectural shingles may be the right choice for you.

Just keep in mind that they’re not suitable for all climates and may not offer enough protection in areas with severe weather conditions.

If you’re unsure if architectural shingles are right for your home, the best thing to do is consult with a professional roofer. They can help you assess your needs and find the perfect solution for your home.

Here at Gouge Quality Roofing, we’re proud to be an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor. We offer the TruDefinition® Duration® and TruDefinition® Duration® Designer shingle lines. These fantastic lines of dimensional shingles have many eye-catching color options that bring any home design to life. When you choose one of the color options from Owens Corning, your home will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Explore Architectural Shingles for Your Home!

Our entire team at Gouge Quality Roofing is a big fan of architectural shingles. We love how they offer such a striking design for your home’s exterior, all while keeping you protected from inclement weather. If you’re due for a roof replacement soon, dimensional shingles could be the perfect solution for you.

We’d love to connect with you and share more about our Owens Corning architectural shingles. Reach out today for a free estimate!