3-tab roof shingles have been around the roofing industry for a long time. They even used to be the most common type of roofing material used around the country.
But the truth is, 3-tab roof shingles are slowly being pushed aside. So, if you already have or are seriously considering a 3-tab shingle roof, there are some things to know before choosing it for your roof replacement.
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners understand the ins and outs of the roofing industry. Now we’ll help you determine if 3-tab roof shingles are really the best choice for your roof replacement.
Let’s get to the 4 things you need to know before choosing 3-tab roof shingles for your new roof.
1. 3-tab roof shingles are being phased out of the roofing industry
The first thing you need to know before choosing 3-tab roof shingles is their future. 3-tab roof shingles are starting to be phased out of the roofing industry.
Because of this, they’re getting harder to find, and your color options will be limited. It’s even possible suppliers in your area aren’t carrying 3-tab roof shingles anymore.
This makes it harder to find color matches for repairs and to find a color you like for your roof replacement. The simple reason why they’re being phased out comes down to improvements in shingle technology.
With the improved technology, manufacturers developed architectural asphalt shingles. Architectural shingles are a higher-quality material and have taken 3-tab’s place as the most common roofing material used around the country.
Just know every 3-tab roof shingle won’t disappear overnight. However, you may not find the exact color you’re looking for, and it could be hard to find them in general.
2. The look of a 3-tab shingle roof
The next thing to know about 3-tab roof shingles is the look they offer your home. 3-tab roof shingles have the lowest curb appeal of the 3 types of asphalt shingles.
For an example, let’s compare the look of a 3-tab shingle roof to an architectural shingle roof.
(3-tab shingle roof)
3-tab roof shingles lay flat and get their name from the 3 tabs on each shingle strip.
(Architectural shingle roof)
On the other hand, architectural roof shingles give you a random pattern or simulate the look of a wood shake roof.
Now, I’m not saying that a 3-tab shingle roof is a bad-looking roof. And honestly, the look of a roof is subjective.
However, 3-tab roof shingles don’t have the color options and patterns to make your roof stand out like other shingles. If you already have a 3-tab shingle roof and like the look, great.
Just know they don’t offer the same curb appeal boost other roofing materials do.
3. 3-tab roof shingles have the shortest lifespan of the common roofing materials
The lifespan of your roof is how many years you get out of it. Depending on the roofing material, this could be 20 years, 30 years, or even 50 plus years.
With that in mind, 3-tab roof shingles have the shortest lifespan of the common roofing materials. 3-tab roof shingles have a manufacturer-specified lifespan of 25 years.
Realistically, you should get around 80-85% of a 3-tab roof shingle’s maximum lifespan. This means you can expect to get around 20-22 years out of a 3-tab shingle roof.
For comparison, an architectural shingle roof should last around 25-28 years. Once you get to more premium roof systems, that number keeps going up.
Keep in mind there’s always the possibility your roof won't reach its maximum lifespan because of the factors that impact the life of a roof. But if a 3-tab shingle roof is properly installed and the attic is adequately ventilated, it should get close to that 20-year mark.
4. 3-tab roof shingles are the cheapest roofing material option
3-tab roof shingles are actually the cheapest roofing material option available. This is why homeowners consider a 3-tab roof shingle for their roof replacement.
But the reason they’re the cheapest comes down to the quality. This isn’t a bad thing; it’s just the truth when comparing 3-tab roof shingles to the other roofing materials.
Just know a new roof will always be an investment. So, I understand it’s important to look for an affordable option.
But if you’re seriously considering a 3-tab shingle roof, it’s crucial not to try to find the cheapest roof replacement possible. Doing this leads to premature roof failure right off the bat.
If you decide a 3-tab shingle roof is right for you, make sure to invest in quality materials and hire a great roofing contractor to get the most out of your new roof.
Is a 3-tab shingle roof the best choice for you?
Now you know the 4 things to consider before choosing 3-tab roof shingles. After reading this article, you should have a pretty good idea if a 3-tab shingle roof is right for you.
If it is, you’re ready to talk to a local roofing contractor about starting the roof replacement process. But if you’re on the fence or just want to know your options, we have just the thing to help you make the right roofing material decision.
The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Roof has the disadvantages and advantages of the top residential roofing materials. It also includes the lifespan, warranty, and cost information for each one.
But that’s not all. The buyer’s guide will help you find a great roofing contractor, break down the components you’ll pay for, how to pay for a new roof, and so much more.
Keep going to get The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Roof so that you can make the right purchasing decisions for your upcoming roof replacement.
Since 1990, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality roof replacements to thousands of homeowners in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee areas. When getting a roof from us, you can count on decades of protection for you and your family.
Here’s The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Roof to help you find the perfect roofing material for your upcoming roof replacement.
