Difference Between Three-Tab and Laminated Asphalt Shingles

Difference Between Three-Tab and Laminated Asphalt Shingles

Three-Tab Shingles – The most commonly used type of shingles are the traditional three-tab asphalt shingles. These are the least expensive option of asphalt shingles. 3 tab shingles appear as three separate shingles because of strips with notches that makes up the three tabs. This leave what is know as a water line going up the roof where the notched our areas should be in alignment making a sort of channel. These shingles can also be installed using what is know as a 5 on five patter that staggers the water lines. This works fantastic on hip roofs.

Laminated Shingles – Laminated shingles are heavier, more expensive, and more durable than traditional 3-tab shingle designs. laminated or architectural, uses two distinct layers which are bonded together with asphalt sealant. Instead of a 3-tab strip they have what are called a dragon tooth cut out and a strip applied to the back, hence laminate. This gives the shingle a raised visual effect to the roof surface.

This video from Certainteed, your trusted source for quality shingles, explains the importance of and the how-to of selecting the right style shingle for your new roof.

Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and bring you as much content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most (not all) cases I will receive a referral commission. Your support in purchasing through these links enables me to keep this site filled with the latest in roof repair tips!

Thank you!

Charles Jines

Filed under: Shingle Roof Repair and Products

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!