Asphalt remains the top roofing material for both residential and commercial properties. It’s reliable, affordable and can easily fit most homes, regardless of architectural style. There are three main types of asphalt roof system: three-tab, laminate and designer shingles. Each one has its own unique strengths and areas it excels in.
Storm Master Construction and Roofing, your local roofing contractor, compares these three types of asphalt shingles to help you pick the right one for your home.
Three-Tab Shingles
These are your entry-level asphalt shingle systems and the most affordable choice. The typical one-piece and single-layer three-tab shingle combines affordability and functionality and you can install it on any home. It’s made from a durable fiberglass basemat coated with mineral granules, making it a lightweight but durable roof.
It has an average life span of 20 years, although this depends on the environmental conditions. As the basic asphalt roof system, it has lower but passable durability compared with the other three roof choices. Timely roof repair and maintenance will allow you to maximize three-tab shingle life span.
Laminate Shingles
Also known as architectural or dimensional shingles, these are the direct upgrade to three-tab shingles and they boast higher durability and a longer life span at an average of 30 years. As their other name suggests, these shingles feature a multi-dimensional texture and appearance that can increase the curb appeal of your home. It’s more expensive than three-tab shingles, but you’re getting considerably more out of your new roof.
Designer Shingles
These are technically the same as laminate shingles and are indeed a variant of the quintessential architectural asphalt roof. The difference is that these are specifically designed to replicate the look of natural slate and cedar shake roofs, hence their moniker “designer”.
They boast maximum durability, weather tolerance and energy efficiency compared to all asphalt roofs. Designer shingles are more expensive, but they’re top-quality when it comes to this roofing material. If you want a long-lasting and attractive asphalt shingle roof for your next roof replacement project, we recommend this type.
Our team will help you pick the right asphalt roof that fits your needs and budget. Call us today at to learn more about our services. We are a local roofing contractor in Denton, TX.