If you plan to enhance your home’s exterior, particularly the roof deck, installing architectural shingles could be an excellent option. These shingles significantly improve curb appeal and add an extra layer of protection against water damage.
I’ve installed these shingles on several homes, and the difference in aesthetics and protection is noticeable. From my experience, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial costs.
While architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles share similarities, homeowners should be aware of key differences. 3-tab shingles, for instance, lay flat on the roof and are relatively straightforward to install.
However, they lack the dimensionality and durability of architectural shingles. In my years of working with both types, I’ve observed that architectural shingles provide a more refined look and contribute to a longer-lasting roof.
How to Install Architectural Shingles over 3 Tabs
Many older homes feature the standard 3-tab shingles, which, although economical, offer less durability and a shorter lifespan. Having replaced numerous roofs with architectural shingles, I can confirm that the investment in these higher-quality shingles is well justified.
According to research, while 3-tab shingles typically last 15-18 years, architectural shingles can last up to 30 years or more, significantly enhancing the roof’s longevity.
Architectural shingles are renowned for their extended lifespan compared to standard 3-tab shingles. This increase in durability translates to fewer replacements over time, making them a cost-effective choice.
Personally, I’ve seen architectural shingles withstand severe weather conditions, where 3-tab shingles would typically falter. In fact, the increased lifespan, often up to 30 years, makes the higher upfront cost a wise investment for long-term homeowners.
Read also: Are Architectural Shingles Worth Extra Cost
Architectural shingles enhance your roof’s protection and increase its resistance to extreme weather conditions thanks to their superior wind resistance of up to 120 mph. This added protection, coupled with the improved curb appeal, significantly boosts home value. From my perspective as a roofer, these shingles are a top choice for homeowners seeking both longevity and aesthetics.
If your home already uses standard shingles, you may want to update it by installing architectural shingles over them. This is less expensive than dismantling the existing roof and starting from scratch.
It’s essential to remember that architectural shingles should be overlayed over 3-tab shingles only once. From my extensive work in roofing, I’ve encountered cases where repeated overlays led to structural issues, increasing the likelihood of costly repairs and reducing the roof’s overall lifespan. Therefore, it’s advisable to consider a complete tear-off if your existing shingles show signs of significant wear.
If you think of doing a DIY project on this matter, then check out first the guide on how to install architectural shingles over 3 tab shingles in the following:
- Begin by nailing down the very bottom row of roof shingles.
- Set shingles from the sides and arrange them to overlap as you go on.
- Ensure that the first shingles’ row you lay must extend the drip edge for about one inch.
- Nail down each shingle with four nails for each. Set it on under the tar perimeter and about 0.5 inches under the overlapping shingles.
- Complete each side first, then set the ridge cap shingles. In an organized way, start from the left to the right.
- Ensure the shingles overlap so the nail under them is covered, then nail the upper part down.
- Continue the 6th step on how to install 3-tab shingles until all the roofing area is covered.
- Cover all the nails with roofing tar to make them waterproof.
Architectural shingles cost about $25 per sq ft. The price is obviously higher than regular shingles, but the quality is worth it. As mentioned above, they are very durable. Architectural shingles can offer better insulation, and when you add the increase in home value to the equation, you may consider them actually affordable.
Read also: How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?
The installation methods are similar if you want to install standard composition shingles or random cutout shingles. With the help of one or two people, you could complete the overlaying project of 1,500 sq ft in a couple of days.
While the guide on installing architectural shingles over 3-tab shingles provides a simpler and easier way to perform the roofing project, it is not a task for everyone. It’s always better to discuss or ask for help from a professional roofer or the construction service company before deciding to do it yourself.
