5 Reasons to Upgrade Your 3-Tab Shingles to Architectural Shingles
When it’s time for an asphalt roof replacement, one of the first decisions you’ll make is which type of shingle to install. In many cases, homeowners simply replace what’s already on the roof.
But when we inspect a home with Standard 3-tab shingles, we almost always recommend upgrading to architectural (dimensional) shingles.
We get it—“upgrade” usually means a higher upfront cost. And no, this isn’t about upselling or pushing a more expensive option. There are clear, practical reasons why architectural shingles have become the standard for residential roofing.
At Aultman Roofing, we focus on long-term performance, code compliance, and real-world durability—especially in North Georgia’s storm-prone climate. Below are five reasons it’s time to leave 3-tab shingles behind.
1. 3-Tab shingles are being phased out of the roofing industry
3-tab shingles were once the most common roofing material in the country. Today, that’s no longer the case.
Manufacturers are steadily shifting production toward architectural shingles due to advancements in material design, wind performance, and longevity. As a result:
Fewer 3-Tab color options are available
Matching existing shingles for repairs is increasingly difficult
Some suppliers no longer stock them regularly
Architectural shingles have effectively replaced 3-tab shingles as the default residential asphalt roofing material. While 3-tab shingles won’t disappear overnight, availability and compatibility will continue to decline.
2. Architectural shingles offer significantly better curb appeal
Curb appeal matters—whether you plan to sell your home or just want it to look its best.
3-tab shingles lay flat and uniform, which can make a roof look plain or dated. Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are designed with layered depth and random patterns that add dimension to the roof surface.
Many architectural styles even mimic the look of wood shake or slate, giving your home a more substantial, modern appearance.
While aesthetics are subjective, most homeowners agree that architectural shingles look better from the street—and that perception can directly impact resale value.
3. Architectural shingles last longer than 3-tab shingles
Longevity is one of the biggest differences between these two shingle types.
3-tab shingles: Typically replaced after 12-18 years
Architectural shingles: Most architectural shingles last 22-25 years
In real-world conditions, shingles rarely reach their advertised lifespan. Things that shorten the life are poor ventilation, installation issues, and weather events. In Georgia, we see a very wide range of temperatures. The summers can have shingles reaching 150+ degrees and occasionally below freezing in the winter. These wide temperature swings lead to a shorter life as the shingle is constantly heating and cooling.
That generally translates to:
~15 years for 3-tab shingles
~23 years for architectural shingles
Over the life of your roof, that added durability can delay replacement and reduce long-term costs.
4. Architectural shingles offer better warranty options
Both 3-tab and architectural shingles come with manufacturer warranties—but architectural shingles open the door to far better coverage.
While 3-tab shingles typically carry a basic prorated warranty, architectural shingles often qualify for enhanced system warranties, which can include:
Extended non-prorated coverage
System-wide protection (shingles, underlayment, accessories)
Longer material and workmanship terms
To qualify, the roof must be installed as a complete system using manufacturer-approved components and proper ventilation. Poor installation or inadequate attic ventilation can void these warranties—making contractor quality critical.
5. Architectural shingles perform better in high winds
North Georgia sees its share of severe storms, and wind resistance is often overlooked until shingles start missing.
The difference between these two shingle types is substantial:
Standard 3-tab shingles often carry wind ratings around 60 mph
Architectural shingles commonly carry 130 mph ratings, with higher ratings available when installed with matching starter strips and ridge components
If we’re called out for missing shingles after a storm, there’s a strong chance the roof is covered with 3-tab shingles. Architectural shingles are heavier, thicker, and engineered to stay in place when wind loads increase.
Of course, wind ratings only matter if the roof is installed correctly. Proper fastening, layout, and accessories make all the difference.
Is upgrading to architectural shingles worth the cost?
For most homeowners, yes.
Even if curb appeal isn’t a priority, the added lifespan, improved warranties, and better storm resistance make architectural shingles a smart long-term investment.
The remaining question is price—and that’s an important one. The cost difference is real, but so is the value gained.
If you’re considering an upgrade, the best next step is understanding what architectural shingles cost for your specific roof, not just national averages.
Need help deciding?
At Aultman Roofing, we don’t push one-size-fits-all solutions. We evaluate your roof, your goals, and your budget—and then give you the information you need to decide confidently.