Selecting shingles for your roof replacement may seem like a no-brainer. After all, to the untrained eye, all residential roof shingles look similar. In reality, a new roof is a major investment, and it’s important to weigh the pros and cons when choosing your materials. Not sure where to start? In southwest Missouri, fiberglass composition roofs are currently the most popular choice. Fiberglass composition roofs are fire-resistant and easy to install and remove, which means you can spend more time enjoying your home and less time waiting on the final product. Once you’ve decided on a fiberglass composition roof, there are several key factors to consider when planning your roof replacement—factors including budget, aesthetics, warranty length, and durability. That’s where different types of composition shingles, such as architectural composition shingles and dimensional composition shingles, come into play.

Types of Composition Shingles

3-Tab Shingles

If you’re looking to replace your roof without breaking the bank, 3-tab shingles could be a perfect fit. 3-tab shingles take their name from a series of vertical slots that are notched into the shingle, splitting its lower half into three “tabs.” The tabs create a classic roof shingle pattern commonly seen in composition shingles.

One of the most appealing factors of 3-tab shingles is their relatively low cost. These shingles have a lower initial installation cost than other shingle options, making them a great choice for a first home. However, it’s worth noting that 3-tab shingles are typically not as long-lasting as other composition roofing shingles. They usually come with shorter warranties and can be more susceptible to decay and mold caused by excess trapped moisture. Additionally, 3-tab shingles don’t stand up to high winds and tough weather conditions as well as other roof types, such as dimensional composition shingles or architectural composition shingles. While 3-tabs can be an economical choice for a starter home, they may not compare to other types of composition roofing when it comes to overall durability and quality.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as laminate or dimensional composition shingles, are currently the most popular choice when it comes to composition roofs. These shingles represent a significant upgrade from basic 3-tab shingles, offering enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal. Architectural shingles are also more affordable than some premium composition shingles, making them an excellent option for homeowners looking for a high-quality, attractive roofing solution.

One of the key features of architectural composition shingles is their second tabbed layer, which effectively doubles the thickness of the shingle. Like 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles are available in a wide range of colors and styles. They also come with longer warranties, typically offering options for 30-year, 50-year, and limited-lifetime manufacturer warranties. In addition to their durability, architectural shingles provide a natural, appealing look that can mimic the appearance of wood or slate. They are significantly more durable than 3-tab shingles, making them better suited for withstanding high winds and harsh weather conditions.

Premium Composition Shingles

If you’re prepared to make a serious investment in your home, premium composition shingles are the way to go. Premium composition shingles are the highest quality option when it comes to composition roofs, greatly increasing the value of your home with durability and style. Premium shingles are often larger and much heavier than standard shingles, making them heartily weather-resistant. They also have a variety of attractive styles that can mimic wood, slate, or tile.

While premium shingles are attractive, resilient, and highly weatherproof, they do come with a heftier price tag. That price tag is, however, reflected in the product’s long warranties. If you’re willing to make the financial commitment, premium composition shingles can withstand difficult weather conditions while adding stylish flair to your home.

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Let GlennStone Guide You Through Your Roofing Investment

A new roof is a serious investment. It can be challenging to weigh the pros and cons when deciding which type of shingle is right for you – especially if you’re a first-time homeowner. At GlennStone, we’re prepared to do the heavy lifting for you. Give us a call at 417-860-8125 to set up a consultation.