Are Architectural Shingles Worth It?

Are Architectural Shingles Worth it?

Shingles serve multiple purposes for your home or business. Not only do they protect your structure from harsh weather and damage caused by ice, rain, and snow, they also offer excellent curb appeal. In addition, architectural shingles are a type of upgraded shingle that can give your home or business a new look and even more protection. So should you buy architectural shingles for your home? Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Architectural shingles are a type of high-quality laminated or multi-dimensional shingle that enhances the appearance of a building’s roof. These shingles are created using a fiberglass foundation mat and adding strong, ceramic-coated particles on top of water-resistant hydrophobic asphalt. The finished shingles may be made up of several layers of these materials.

Some architectural shingles are produced with a synthetic or lab-created slate that mimics natural textures. Synthetic slate shingles are lighter and do not require as much support as heavier, natural slate shingles. Other modern architectural shingles are designed to look like cedarwood, but these shingles are fire-resistant, unlike genuine cedar.

What Are the Benefits of Architectural Shingles?

Architectural shingles generally come with a 25- to 50-year warranty depending on the shingle and material. They can withstand extreme winds of up to 120 mph and snow, ice, and heavy rain. When exposed to extreme weather or prolonged sunshine, architectural shingles do not fracture or shatter. They are also resistant to algae and fungi and will not fade over time.

What Do Architectural Shingles Cost?

Although architectural shingles are approximately 20% more expensive than traditional flat three-tab shingles, they tend to last much longer and add significantly more value to your property overall.

Depending on the pitch, size, and slope of your structure’s roof, the cost of architectural shingles can range anywhere from $13,500 to $21,500. On an average-sized single-story home, you can anticipate paying roughly $1.00 to $1.50 per square foot of shingle or $100 to $150 per square foot of roofing installed, including the cost of labor.

Architectural shingles costs vary widely between regions, so getting a few quotes before reaching out to a contractor is always a good idea. You should also ask for a breakdown of costs, so you know how much labor, materials, and other fees are as well. The contractor you choose to install your architectural shingles matters when it comes to how much you’ll pay for the overall job, how quickly it will get done, and the quality of the finished work. Since these types of shingles are an investment, you must do your homework and look for someone with years of experience, expertise, and skills in roofing.

Head over to Angi (formerly known as Angie’s List) to find a roofer in your area. Browse company profiles, reviews, and learn more about architectural shingles and roofing installation costs.