Tags: Roofing Materials, General Roofing Information
Asphalt shingles are on roughly 80% of homes in America, and the percentage is even higher along the Wasatch Front. They are the most popular roofing material for good reason: they work well, they are available in a huge range of colors and styles, they are affordable relative to other materials, and when installed correctly, they handle Utah's climate.
But "asphalt shingles" is a broad category. There are real differences between types, and understanding those differences helps you make a smarter decision when it is time for a new roof.
How asphalt shingles are made
Every asphalt shingle starts with a base mat, either fiberglass or organic. Virtually all modern shingles use fiberglass. That mat gets coated with asphalt, which is the waterproofing agent. Then ceramic granules are embedded into the surface. The granules do two things: they protect the asphalt from UV degradation, and they give the shingle its color.
The quality of each of those components varies by manufacturer and product line. Better granules adhere more tightly and resist UV longer. Better asphalt formulations stay flexible in cold weather and resist cracking. The base mat weight affects the overall durability and dimensional stability of the shingle.
Three-tab shingles
Three-tab shingles are the basic, traditional asphalt shingle. They are a single flat layer with cutouts that create the appearance of three separate tabs. They lay flat against the roof and create a uniform, repeating pattern.
Three-tabs are thinner and lighter than architectural shingles. They typically carry a 20 to 25 year warranty and are rated for winds up to about 60 miles per hour. They are the least expensive asphalt option and they do the job. But they are being phased out by most manufacturers in favor of architectural shingles, and honestly, the price difference between the two has gotten small enough that three-tab rarely makes sense anymore.
Architectural shingles
Architectural shingles, also called dimensional or laminated shingles, are the standard for most residential roofing today. They have multiple layers of asphalt laminated together, which gives them a thicker, more dimensional appearance. On the roof, they create a textured, shadow-line look that is far more attractive than a flat three-tab. We go deeper on these in our dedicated architectural shingles article.
Beyond aesthetics, architectural shingles are heavier, more durable, and offer better wind resistance, typically rated for 110 to 130 mph winds. Their warranties are significantly stronger, often 30 years to lifetime depending on the product line and installation credentials.
Premium and designer shingles
Above architectural, there are premium and designer lines that mimic the look of slate, wood shake, or tile at a fraction of the weight and cost. CertainTeed's Grand Manor and Carriage House lines fall into this category. They are beautiful products, but they come at a premium price.
For most homeowners along the Wasatch Front, a quality architectural shingle is the sweet spot. It gives you excellent performance, great curb appeal, strong warranty protection, and a price that makes sense. Premium products are there if you want them, but you do not need to spend designer money to get a roof that performs well for 25 years.
What to look for when choosing
When you are comparing shingles, here are the things that actually matter: wind rating (look for 110+ mph), warranty terms and length, granule adhesion quality, and how the product handles cold-weather flexibility. In Utah, that last one is a big deal because of our temperature swings. A shingle that gets brittle in the cold is more likely to crack during winter installation or under ice and snow loads.
And remember, the installer matters more than the brand. Choose your contractor first, then work with them to select the best material for your budget and your home.
Have questions about your roof? We offer free roof assessments. We will take a look, tell you what we see, and give you honest recommendations. No pressure, no obligation. Give us a call or schedule online.
"The price was very competitive and he did some extra ice barrier for the edge. Roof passed all city inspection. Bob is local not like some of those other roofers who say they are local but not really."TI Panchev , Google Review