Published: 09/30/2021

Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your old rooftop, planning a new shingle installation can be daunting. There are so many different types of shingles on the market, and it can be difficult to tell which offers the greatest balance of value and quality.

Having an idea of how shingle types compare can help ease the process of picking which one is right for your home. Below, we draw up a thorough comparison of two popular shingle types and assess which one offers more advantages.

3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

The 3-tab asphalt shingle is the standard choice for basic installations. You can think of them as the “no-frills” option – they’re made to get the job done, but you won’t get exceptional performance or longevity out of them.

3-tab shingles are fairly thin, given that they comprise a flat, single-layer composite of fiberglass, asphalt, and ceramic. They provide decent waterproofing and UV reflection, but their weaker structure makes them vulnerable to wind forces.

You can’t beat 3-tab shingles when it comes to initial pricing. They cost 40-50% less than higher-grade shingles, making them the most affordable option in the short term. But you should be prepared to replace the shingles within at least 20 years, if not sooner, considering the strain of South Florida’s storms and hurricanes.

Best for: Projects that need a quick, cost-efficient fix, without worry over the expense of future replacement.

GAF Timberline HDZ Architectural Shingles

The class of “architectural” shingles is a grade above the standard 3-tabs. They feature a dimensional construction that consists of multiple layers of material. This extra shaping and thickness enables them to resemble shake and even slate rooftops, giving you the option to get an expensive look for less.

Having a robust structure also provides extra durability. With the GAF Timberline HDZ brand of architectural shingles, you benefit from LayerLock™ Technology that achieves more secure installation. Timberlines come with a wind warranty that sets no limit for wind speed, making them the most storm-resistant shingles available. The built-in algae protection is also quite useful here in South Florida’s tropical humidity.

While GAF’s Timberline shingles are more costly than basic 3-tabs, they end up saving you money in the long run. Installations come with a lifetime warranty, meaning that you shouldn’t need to worry about replacement for as long as you own your property. Thanks to such superior quality, these shingles are known to increase home values by 10% on average.

Best for: Projects that are aiming for the best level of longevity and protection, as well as those that seek a more sophisticated and appealing look.

Get Expert Help with Your Shingle Roof Installation

There’s no doubt that 3-tab shingles can be a solid choice for certain homes, but it’s the GAF Timberline HDZ architectural shingles that offer better overall value and quality.

As GAF-certified contractors, we’re able to help you install these outstanding shingles as soon as you’re ready. We’ll walk you through the process and assist you in choosing the color that will best boost your curb appeal. Contact us today to get a free inspection and quote: (941) 727-3996 or office@akvm.com.

Contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection - call us at (941) 727-3996.