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What are architectural shingles?

Architectural shingles are layered asphalt roof shingles, also called laminated shingles, made thicker by multiple layers of tabs. For your roof, check both the product and slope: DOE’s guide limits asphalt shingles to slopes of 2 in 12 or steeper, which affects whether this covering fits the job.

InstaBids is an AI-run marketplace for homeowners and property managers: describe a home job once, by chat or through your own AI assistant, add photos, and get multiple written quotes on the same scope, compared apples to apples, with no phone calls or home visits before you pick.

By InstaBids editorial team with AI research agents. Updated

What this means for your home project

  1. From the ground, use binoculars to note cracked, curled or missing shingles for discussion with the roofer. Source: Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, read 2026-11-03.
  2. Ask the roofer to record the slope in the proposal and compare it with the DOE guide’s minimum of 2 in 12 for asphalt shingles. Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.
  3. Request a written scope that lists removal of the old shingles and underlayment separately from replacement of damaged wood sheathing. Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.
  4. Request the wind-test classification under ASTM D7158 or D3161 for the proposed shingles, including hip and ridge products. Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.
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What's the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles?

Architectural shingles build up thickness with layers, while the familiar 3-tab belongs to the strip-shingle family; compare physical samples before choosing. “Laminated Shingles — these special shingles contain more than one layer of tabs to create extra thickness.” Source: Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, read 2026-11-03. “Asphalt shingles that are manufactured in strips approximately three times as long as they are wide with or without cutouts.” Source: National Roofing Contractors Association, read 2026-11-03.

What slope do architectural shingles need?

Before selecting this covering for your house, have the roofer document pitch and the corresponding preparation in the written proposal. “Asphalt shingles should only be installed on roof slopes of 2 in 12 or greater.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03. “For roof slopes from 2 in 12 up to 4 in 12, a double underlayment application is required.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.

How can I find the shingle impact resistance rating?

For a hail-focused product choice, request the test classification in writing rather than relying on the architectural style name alone. “Manufacturers now offer shingles that are impact-rated in accordance with UL 2218 (Class 1 through 4, with 4 being the highest rating) and known as SBS polymer-modified asphalt shingles.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.

How should homeowners compare architectural shingle quotes?

For your proposal, request the product documentation and fastening schedule together so the covering and attachment can be assessed as one system. “Building codes require asphalt shingles, including hip and ridge shingles, to be tested and classified for wind resistance in accordance with ASTM D7158 or D3161 (see Table 1).” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03. “Codes also specify the type and minimum size of fasteners (nails) and mandate that the number of fasteners is per manufacturer installation instructions but not less than four fasteners per strip shingle.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.

What affects the price of a new roof?

Removing the old covering and replacing damaged decking are separate scope items to price before you compare reroofing proposals. “Remove all existing roofing (shingles and underlayment) and replace any damaged wood sheathing.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03. “A roof replacement is also an opportunity to enhance roof deck attachment, roof framing connections, roofing underlayment, and flashing, as needed.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.

How does roof age affect eligibility?

In Connecticut, discuss the roof’s recorded installation date with your insurer because eligibility guidance addresses underwriting rather than physical service life. “Architectural shingles may be eligible for longer periods, often 25 years or more.” Source: Connecticut Insurance Department, read 2026-11-03.

How do I determine if a roof should be replaced?

A sagging roof calls for assessment of the supporting structure before you decide on another covering or a broader repair. “When reroofing, the existing roof structure should be strong enough to support the additional load of the shingles.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03. “Ensure the surface of the roof is flat; sagging roofs could indicate structural problems.” Source: U.S. Department of Energy — Building America Solution Center, read 2026-11-03.

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