We're finally getting around to replacing our roof (yay adulthood, right?), and I'm kinda stuck deciding between regular 3-tab shingles and those fancier architectural ones. I've heard architectural shingles last longer and look nicer, but they're also pricier. Is the extra cost actually justified, or is it mostly just marketing hype? Curious if anyone here has experience with either type and can share some honest thoughts...
We went through this exact debate a few years back when our roof needed replacing. At first, I was definitely leaning towards the cheaper 3-tab shingles because, honestly, who wants to spend more money on something as boring as roofing? But after chatting with a few neighbors and doing some digging, we ended up going with architectural shingles.
Here's the thing—yeah, they're pricier upfront, but the difference wasn't as massive as I'd initially feared. And aesthetically speaking, the architectural shingles really do make a noticeable difference. Our house isn't exactly a mansion or anything, but it just looks... nicer? More put-together, somehow. We even got compliments from neighbors (which never happened before, trust me).
Durability-wise, we've had zero issues so far. Our area gets some pretty harsh weather—hailstorms, high winds—and these shingles have held up like champs. Meanwhile, our neighbor down the street who stuck with standard 3-tabs had to replace several shingles after a nasty storm last year. Could be coincidence or luck, sure, but it made me feel better about our choice.
One thing I'd suggest is checking if your insurance company offers any discounts for using architectural shingles. Ours actually did since they're rated better for wind resistance and longevity. It wasn't huge, but hey, every little bit helps.
Honestly though, if you're planning to stay in your home long-term, the extra investment feels worth it. If you're thinking of selling in a couple of years, maybe it's less important—but potential buyers might appreciate the upgrade anyway. Either way, definitely shop around and get multiple quotes. Prices can vary a lot depending on who you talk to.
Good luck with your decision...adulting never stops being complicated, does it?
