Should You Invest in Architectural Shingles?
Owning a home is a huge investment, which is why it’s so important to properly maintain it over time. Natural weathering, aging, and environmental damage can break down many structural aspects of your home that are essential to protecting it, especially your roof. During your routine roof inspection, you may notice damage or signs of wear and tear — evidence your roof has seen better days.
If you’re considering upgrading your roof, architectural shingles are one of the highest quality products used in roofing for both function and aesthetics. In this guide, we’ll present the basics of what you need to know before investing in architectural shingles.
Related Article: Roof Replacement: What to Know Before You Begin
What Are Architectural Shingles?
Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural shingles emerged as a product of changing consumer tastes during the 1980s. Composed of two or more shingles bonded together, architectural shingles are often made from a heavy fiberglass base and ceramic-coated mineral granules embedded in refined, water-resistant asphalt.
In the roofing industry, architectural shingles are engineered to enhance a roof’s visual appeal. While they are a popular option for their aesthetic value, they have similar, enhanced functional properties compared to regular asphalt shingles. Their weight and thickness provide effective protection against wind, rain, and other weather events.
How Are Architectural Shingles Different from Asphalt Shingles?
The most obvious difference between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles is what they look like on your roof. Traditional asphalt shingles tend to sit flat against the roof with limited visual depth or dimension. Architectural shingles, however, are engineered to offer different color variations that add a three-dimensional look to your roof.
Architectural shingles can be installed in different sizes and can be designed to complement the home with curated colors. Some architectural shingles are even made to mimic other materials, like slate and cedar.
Related Article: How to Choose the Color of Your Roof Shingles
How Much Do Architectural Shingles Cost?
Depending on the size, shape, and slope of your roof, the cost of an architectural shingle roof may vary. Pricing can also depend on the amount of labor required. For example, the removal of pre-existing materials can drive up labor costs.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $9,000 for new shingles. If investing in architectural shingles, however, the average price can start in the range of $13,500. Despite the steeper price, there are a few reasons architectural shingles are a great investment.
With enough budget, investing in architectural shingles is a great way to improve your home in many different ways. Other than adding a beautiful, unique, and personalized look to your home, architectural shingles also:
- Give homeowners an average 6% return on investment (ROI)
- Last about 30 to 50 years
- Have higher resistance to elemental damage and age
Don’t Wait! Start Your Roofing Replacement Project
At Advance Inc., we are proud partners with Owens Corning shingle manufacturer, an industry leader in architectural shingles. TruDefinition Duration Shingles from Owens Corning are capable of withstanding 130 mph winds. The summer season is officially upon us, which means homeowners in the Delaware Valley region should be mindful of thunderstorms, strong rains, and even the threat of hurricanes later this season.
Inspect your roof sooner rather than later to make sure it’s structurally sound. If you find it’s in need of repair or replacement, give us a call! We are confident that our services will provide you a roof that’s functional and adds to your home’s curb appeal.
Contact Advance Inc. today to speak to an expert for a quote, or browse our roofing services on our website. We are happy to help!