Asphalt Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles: Which to Choose?

Asphalt Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles: Which to Choose?

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Do you have to put a new roof on? Or maybe an old roof needs redoing? Roof shingles are an extremely important part of most buildings. However, with time, old shingles need replacing to keep a building weather-tight.

This article will discuss asphalt shingles and architectural shingles, going into detail about the differences, strengths, and weaknesses of each of them. Once you’ve finished reading this article, you’ll know which type of roofing material to choose for your roof.

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

For years, asphalt roof shingles have been the most popular choice for roofs in North America. A shingle is the outermost part of a roof that provides the first layer of protection from water and weather. Shingles are rectangular shaped and layered over one another to allow water to run from the top of the roof down into a gutter at the bottom of the roof.

Traditionally, asphalt shingles are made from a combination of materials. The bottom layer is usually felt, which provides waterproofing and strength. On top of the felt is the asphalt, then a top layer. This top layer functions as a UV protector, stopping the sun from degrading the shingle too quickly.

There are different styles of asphalt shingles, with varying numbers of tile-like tabs. The most common shingle has three tabs, but two and four are also available. Each shingle has an adhesive strip running along its length. When the shingles are laid and the sun heats them up, this adhesive strip activates. Once this is activated, it prevents wind from getting underneath the bottom of the shingle and lifting it up.

Traditional asphalt shingles are so popular because they provide a long-lasting, affordable, and energy-efficient roofing option. Asphalt shingles are readily available in most locations in North America, where you can buy them in a broad range of colors and styles. We wrote more about their advantages (and disadvantages) here.

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Architectural shingles are also known as dimensional or laminated shingles. The roofing material is an evolution from traditional asphalt shingles, with both styles sharing a lot of features. Essentially, the concept of architectural shingles is the same as an asphalt shingle, however, they differ in how the two have been manufactured.

The design of architectural shingles means the material can imitate the look of more expensive and appealing roofing materials, such as slate tiles or wooden shakes. The benefit here is that the shingles can look like more desirable materials, whilst providing lower expense, installation time, maintenance, and fire risk.

Beyond the aesthetic qualities of this roofing option, there is a practical improvement as well. By increasing thickness to mimic natural materials, architectural shingles are stronger and more durable than traditional asphalt.

Asphalt Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles: What Are the Differences?

In this section, we’ll compare asphalt and architectural shingles in a number of key areas, including lifespan, durability, cost, appearance, and availability.

Lifespan

One of the reasons asphalt shingles are so widely used in America is because of their longevity. As an evolution of the asphalt shingle, architectural shingles improve on the already impressive lifespan.

Depending on the weather, a three-tab asphalt shingle can last between 10 and 20 years. In perfect conditions, asphalt shingles can last up to 25 years. Comparatively, architectural shingles have an average lifespan of 15 to 25 years. In ideal weather climates, architectural shingles can last up to 30 years.

Durability

Architectural shingles have more layers of material than asphalt shingles, which creates a more durable product. Architectural shingles can remain secure in winds up to 110 miles an hour and resist snow and hail damage more effectively. Asphalt shingles will also protect a home from the elements, but will degrade more quickly.

Cost

Price-wise, asphalt shingles are cheaper than their newer counterpart. Depending on your location, a pack of architectural shingles could cost between $35 and $45. Comparatively, a pack of three-tab asphalt shingles could cost $25. Concentrating on the initial cost can be a false economy though, with the asphalt shingles needing replacing and repairing sooner than architectural.

Appearance

Architectural shingles are designed to look more like natural materials, such as slate, tiles, and shakes. They are thicker, with more depth and variation in shape. Color-wise, they will follow more natural tones. However, there are some manufacturers that offer wider selections. Comparatively, asphalt shingles sit flat on a roof. A roof laid with asphalt will look very uniform and is noticeably different from natural tiles and architectural shingles.

Availability

Neither of these roofing materials is difficult to source. Asphalt shingles are usually available from most hardware stores. If you are going to pay extra for architectural shingles, it is worth shopping around to get the perfect ones to match your requirements.

Asphalt Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles: Which One Should You Use?

Deciding on architectural or more traditional asphalt shingles is not always an easy choice. There are multiple factors to consider when roofing a building. In this section, we’ll walk you through some of the variables that will influence what material you choose.

As with most building work, the cost of the material is a huge factor. Do you have the budget for architectural shingles? If not, the decision is easy, and asphalt is the better choice. However, if you can afford architectural shingles, the additional cost brings benefits like longer warranties, increased durability, and better aesthetics.

Is there a specific style you want for your home? For some areas, you will have to roof your home in a similar way to the surrounding buildings. Consult local planning laws and neighborhood committees to make sure there aren’t any restrictions before paying for roofing materials. Most people agree that architectural shingles look much better if you can find a style that matches your wants.

Another point to consider is how long the roof needs to last. For example, a shed roof doesn’t have the same requirements as a three-story home because it is much easier to access. Alongside this, if the climate is harsh, traditional asphalt will degrade much quicker than architectural tiles.

Summary

Using the right shingles is vital when creating a safe, warm, and dry home. Asphalt shingles do a fantastic job of protecting a building from the elements, but if you can afford architectural shingles, they offer more longevity and better looks.