The Difference Between Asphalt and Architectural Shingles

If you are thinking of building or renovating the roof of your house, it is important first of all to choose the right materials, which meet the optimal conditions of strength and durability, and meet your needs in terms of quality. On the market we will find various options, such as asphalt and metal, from engineered shingles, as well as flat roofs. Speaking of which, asphalt is the most sought after and recommended material by roofing contractors. If you make this decision we are going to recommend the following guide to help you know and differentiate between traditional asphalt shingles and architectural asphalt shingles.

What are asphalt shingles and benefits of asphalt shingles?

The asphalt shingle has in its bottom layer a felt or fiberglass composite that protects the shingle from water seepage, after this layer is the actual asphalt protected by a surface material which has a mineral granulation with ultraviolet ray protection that protects the shingle and increases its life span, this type of shingle allows waterproofing, the most common of them are the three tab shingles that shows a dispersion aspect but offer maximum firmness. These shingles have a sealing strip that are activated by the heat that reaches the roof and offer resistance to climatic changes. Their durability and variety in styles and colors, their easy installation, offer a solution that adds up in benefits.

What are and benefits of architectural asphalt shingles?

In their physical composition, both traditional and architectural asphalt shingles are similar, what makes them different is the way they are installed, how they overlap, this type of shingles were manufactured with an imitation wood strip style, which form two layers that give a contoured type figure as they are composed of two laminated layers, which offers an aesthetic and elegant view to your roof, this type of shingle offers greater durability and resistance to winds.

Recommendations for choosing the right shingle for your roof

PRICE: traditional asphalt shingles are more economical, but architectural asphalt shingles compensate their initial value with greater durability and warranty.
PERFORMANCE: here the geographic location of the property plays a role, in moderate climates the traditional asphalt shingles have greater durability, but the architectural asphalt shingles offer greater protection and resistance when your property is located in areas of extreme winter or winds, because they are thicker and of maximum quality.
STYLE: In their appearance they are different, the traditional ones are flat, while the architectural ones are known as dimensional because several layers of materials are adhered to the base which gives a dimensional aspect to the roof.
LIFESPAN: architectural asphalt shingles have a useful life of 18 to 20 years, extendable to 30 years in suitable conditions, they withstand weather conditions better, while traditional asphalt shingles have a useful life of 7 to 10 years.
WARRANTY: warranties show their total value, traditional asphalt shingles are guaranteed for 20 to 30 years, while architectural shingles are guaranteed for 50 years.


The choice of your roof according to the type of shingle chosen is also related to the type of housing, traditional asphalt shingles are more accessible in the short term and are used in rental or economic housing, while architectural asphalt shingles are considered for their useful life for durability and aesthetics for homes of higher value.

If you’re in the market for new roofing in Allegheny County, PA, turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC Roofing Contractor in Ross Township, PA This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.

Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC