Know Your Roof · Shingles & Roofing Materials
Architectural vs 3-Tab Shingles: What's the Difference?
Quick answer
Architectural shingles are thicker, laminated shingles with a layered, dimensional look. 3-tab shingles are flat, single-layer shingles cut into three tabs, a thinner and older style. Architectural shingles generally hold up better to wind and weather, which is why they're the usual choice for a full roof replacement.
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What a 3-tab shingle is
A 3-tab shingle is a single flat layer of asphalt shingle with two cutouts along the bottom edge, so each strip looks like three separate shingles. On the roof, it gives a flat, even, repeating pattern. It was the standard asphalt shingle for decades.
What an architectural shingle is
An architectural shingle, also called a dimensional or laminated shingle, is made of two or more layers laminated together. The layers create shadow lines and a textured look. They're thicker and heavier than 3-tab shingles.
Side by side
| Item | 3-tab | Architectural |
|---|---|---|
| Build | One flat layer | Two or more laminated layers |
| Look | Flat and even | Layered, with shadow lines |
| Thickness | Thinner and lighter | Thicker and heavier |
| Wind resistance | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Where you see it | Older roofs, sheds and outbuildings | Most new residential roofs |
Which one is right for your home?
For a full replacement, most homeowners choose architectural shingles for the look and the added durability. 3-tab shingles still come up when matching an older roof for a small repair. Either way, your estimate should name the exact shingle line being installed.
Can you mix them?
Patching a 3-tab roof with architectural shingles, or the other way around, usually stands out because the shape and thickness don't match. On a full replacement, the whole roof gets the same shingle, with ridge cap shingles made to match.
Looking for another word? See the roofing terms glossary, A to Z.