Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing material used on homes today. They are designed to protect a home through decades of weathering with minimal upkeep. They are available in hundreds of colors and styles, are considered relatively easy to install, and offer cost-effective production. DK Haney Roofing is a trusted installer of shingle roofing materials, including IKO and Fortified Metals.
So what are asphalt shingles?
An asphalt shingle is a type of wall or roof shingle that uses asphalt for waterproofing. It is one of the most widely used roofing covers in North America because it has a relatively inexpensive up-front cost and is fairly simple to install.
There are three main types of asphalt roofing shingle products available today – 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles. It is important to understand each type of roofing shingle to pick the right product for your home.
3-Tab Shingles
Named due to the shingle’s cut, 3-tab shingles are the original and most basic asphalt shingles. They are made from a single layer of asphalt and have a very flat appearance that offers a slate look. Since they are made from a single layer, they usually weigh and cost less than other asphalt shingles. Today, 3-tab shingles are most often used by home builders that manufacture inexpensive homes or homeowners replacing roofing shingles on residences that already have 3-tab shingles on the roof.
Architectural Shingles
Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, architectural shingles are the most common asphalt shingles. These products are manufactured with two or more asphalt layers that are fused together for a thicker and richer multi-dimensional appearance and are engineered to replicate the wood shake and natural slate roofing aesthetics. Architectural shingles are typically heavier than 3-tab shingles and have enhanced warranty protection.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles are the highest-quality laminated shingles available, offering a unique appearance and functionality that surpasses architectural shingles. Apart from being more substantial in weight than offering premium protection for weathering, luxury shingles are striking to look at, displaying the highest quality, coloration, and dimensionality. Luxury shingles offer the most realistic representation of the old-world wood shake and quarried slate roofing.
Contact one of our roofing consultants who will work with you to select a quality shingle that fits your home’s aesthetics and stays within your budget. We understand that matching shingles to your home’s color is a difficult decision, so we will work with you to find your perfect shingle color and texture.