ROOFING TYPES
Roofing Types: 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Cost: Low
Durability: Very Low (10-15 Years)
Energy Efficiency: Bad
COST
DURABILITY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
3-Tab Roofing Types &Material
3-tab asphalt shingles are the least expensive of all roofing types nowadays. Like many other building materials, they mass produced in large quantities due to the regular demand. 3-tab shingles are fairly easy to produce as they are made of only fiberglass, asphalt, adhesive, and granules; the back is slathered in adhesive. Living in Lakeland, or any other area of Florida comes with an expectation of high winds from time to time during thunderstorms and even hurricanes. Since this material is very lightweight, it can easily be caught by heavy winds and torn off the roof. The adhesive is added to glue it to the roof tightly but a high enough wind can tug at the corners and eventually peel the covering off. One function of the granules is to cut the impact of the wind but this doesn’t always prevent damage
Labor
This roofing type is very easy to install because of the weight and minimal material it takes to complete the job. Although a bundle of shingles seems heavy to an individual, it is one of the lighter types of coverings. After the roof is prepped for covering, a length of 3-tab single can be laid in literally 30 seconds. Because of the weight and minimal material, labor is simple and quick. This factor certainly helps with the installation cost and time. The adhesive, some of the material used to install this type, is already present on the back of the shingles. The other material used, roofing nails, are somewhat inexpensive compared to other hardware/fasteners used in roofing. In addition to this, asphalt shingles (3-tab and architectural) are the most common of all roof coverings so most roofers out there install nothing but this type.
The Aesthetics of These Roofing Types
The 3-tab asphalt shingle is a classic look that has been around for decades throughout many parts of the country. Since it came much later than the ancient roof covering types (tile, slate, wood, etc.), it is considered a modern look. It is clean, fresh, and compliments the contours of any roof type as it sits flat and flush with the structure of the roof. Roofing types like these come in many color options. Nowadays, you can get asphalt shingles in almost any color you can think of. Therefore, those that like to design their home to their specific color scheme can chose a color that matches and flows with the outside aesthetics of their home. Not only can one choose the color of the 3-tab single when installed, but they can also be painted if the desire is to hold off on replacing the roof.
Conclusion
Of all the roofing types available today, 3-tab is one of the most common. The reason for this is the cost and ease of installation. However, the durability is extremely low and after a decade or so, they start to wear and need to be replaced. Not only do they wear quickly but they are the easiest damaged during a storm. Therefore, although 3-tab is a low cost option, it is not recommended due to the fact that they just don’t last nearly as long as the other options out there.