I’ve wrestled with the color mismatch thing too—had to patch a section after a windstorm, and even after a couple years, you could still spot the difference from the street. I agree, shortcuts during install are a bigger issue than the shingle material itself. For what it’s worth, I went with architectural asphalt shingles last time. They were a bit pricier than 3-tab, but they’ve held up better in our Midwest freeze-thaw swings. If you’re planning to stay put for a while, it might be worth the extra upfront cost for something more durable. Just make sure whoever does the work actually nails down the details—literally and figuratively.
That color mismatch thing drives me nuts too. I had to replace a patch after a hailstorm, and even though the roofer swore it would “blend in over time,” it’s still obvious from the sidewalk. I guess it’s one of those things you notice way more than anyone else, but still, it bugs me.
I hear you on the install being more important than the shingle itself. I went with 3-tab because I was trying to keep costs down, but I do kind of regret not stretching for architectural. The 3-tabs are fine, but I’ve had to replace a few after some rough winds, and I’m not sure they’ll last as long as I hoped. If you’re planning to stay in your place for a while, I think you’re right—spending a bit more upfront might save you headaches (and cash) down the road.
Totally agree about making sure the crew actually does what they say. I learned the hard way that “good enough” isn’t always good enough when it comes to roofs...
That “it’ll blend in over time” line must be in the roofer’s manual or something. I got the same speech after a tree branch took out a chunk of my roof last winter. Still looks like I’m flying a flag up there, but maybe I’m just more sensitive to it than my neighbors.
I went 3-tab too, mainly because my wallet was already crying from the HVAC replacement. They’re fine, but every time we get those spring gusts, I’m half-expecting to find a shingle in my backyard. Did your crew use enough nails? Mine cut corners and I ended up doing some patchwork myself, which is not my idea of a good Saturday.
Ever thought about painting the patch to match? Or is that just asking for trouble?
Ever thought about painting the patch to match? Or is that just asking for trouble?
- Painting shingles can work short-term, but it usually fades weird or peels, especially with sun and rain. Not a huge fan of that fix.
- 3-tabs are notorious for blowing off in gusty areas—you're not alone there. More nails help, but the shingle itself is just lighter.
- That “it’ll blend in” line... yeah, I’ve heard it a lot. Sometimes it does, sometimes it’s just wishful thinking.
- If you’re patching yourself, double-check the nailing pattern. Most issues I see are from too few nails or missing the right spots.
Honestly, if the patch bugs you and you’re not ready for a full redo, maybe try living with it a bit longer. Most folks don’t notice unless they’re looking for it.
Painting patches is something I’ve seen people try more than once after a storm—usually when the replacement shingle just sticks out like a sore thumb. Honestly, it never holds up for long. I remember a client who tried to match a faded gray with off-the-shelf spray paint. Looked okay for the first month, but by the next season, it was patchy and started flaking. The sun and rain just eat through the paint, and then you’re left with an even bigger eyesore.
I hear you on the 3-tabs. Around here, when we get those spring storms, it’s almost always the 3-tabs that end up scattered in the yard. I’ve replaced plenty, and no matter how careful you are with nails, the material itself just isn’t as beefy as architectural shingles.
If the patch is driving you nuts, sometimes it’s worth stepping back and seeing if you notice it after a few weeks. Most neighbors won’t. But if you’re in a spot where curb appeal really matters, or you’re thinking about selling soon, it might be worth considering a bigger upgrade. Just my two cents from patching more than a few roofs over the years...
