Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingle roofs offer durability, affordability, and curb appeal. Compare three-tab, architectural, and luxury shingles and top brands for NC homes.
What are the benefits of an asphalt shingle roof?
Asphalt shingles are popular because they balance durability, affordability, and good looks. They come in three grades to fit different budgets, carry solid warranties, and hold up well to North Carolina weather. For most homeowners, an asphalt roof delivers decades of protection and strong curb appeal at a lower price than metal or slate.
Key takeaways
- Asphalt shingles come in three grades: three-tab, architectural, and luxury.
- Architectural shingles are now the go-to choice across North America.
- Asphalt costs far less than metal, slate, or cedar while still lasting decades.
- Many architectural and luxury shingles now carry lifetime limited warranties.
- GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning are three trusted asphalt brands.
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles have long been a favorite among homeowners. Their durability, affordability, and range of styles make them a practical, versatile choice for almost any house. On Tops Roofing has installed more than 15,000 asphalt shingle roofs since 1991, so we have seen firsthand how these roofs perform over the years. Below, we walk through the types of asphalt shingles, the benefits they bring, and the major brands worth knowing.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in three main grades, and the one you choose shapes your price, your roof's look, and how long it lasts.
Three-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles are the basic, budget-friendly grade. A single asphalt layer with cutouts gives them a flat, uniform look. For years they were the standard roof across the country, thanks to a low price and easy repairs. They carry a shorter service life, averaging about 15 to 20 years, and handle winds up to 60 mph.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also called laminated or dimensional shingles, use multiple layers for a richer, textured look and better durability. They have overtaken three-tab as the go-to choice in North America, since they add a lot of lifespan and wind resistance for a modest bump in price. Expect roughly 25 to 30 years of service and wind resistance up to 110 mph, and many lines now come with a lifetime limited warranty.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles are the high-end grade, designed to mimic natural slate or wood shake for an upscale look. They are heavier and more durable and come in a wide range of styles and colors. Some upscale neighborhoods with strict HOA guidelines call for this premium look. Expect around 30 to 50 years of service and wind resistance up to 130 mph, at a higher price than the other two grades.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
Beyond the grade you pick, asphalt shingles share a few advantages that keep them at the top of most homeowners' lists.
Longevity
One of asphalt's biggest strengths is how long it lasts for the money. Three-tab has a shorter life, but architectural and luxury grades protect a home for decades with proper installation and upkeep. Against materials like wood shake, asphalt delivers a competitive lifespan at a friendlier price.
Price Range
For affordability, asphalt is tough to beat. It costs less than metal, clay tile, or slate, which makes it a smart value whether you are on a tight budget or simply want strong protection without overspending. Even luxury asphalt runs well below natural slate or cedar. For a quick sense of numbers, our online pricing calculator builds an estimate from real Triangle-area jobs, though it reflects our own pricing rather than other companies'.
Aesthetics
Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can match nearly any look, whether traditional, modern, or rustic. Architectural and luxury grades add depth and texture that boost curb appeal, and with so many options you can tailor the roof to your taste and your home's exterior.
Major Asphalt Shingle Brands
Several trusted brands make quality asphalt shingles. Here are three of the biggest, all of which we install.
GAF
GAF, founded in 1886, is one of the largest roofing manufacturers in North America. Its shingles are known for strong protection against wind, fire, and impact. On Tops is a GAF Master Elite contractor, a credential held by fewer than two percent of roofers nationwide, which lets us offer GAF's strongest warranties on qualifying roofs.
CertainTeed
CertainTeed, in business since 1904, is another respected name, offering shingles that blend looks, durability, and energy efficiency with solid wind, impact, and algae resistance. We are also a CertainTeed ShingleMaster company, so we are certified to install their systems to a high standard.
Owens Corning
Owens Corning, founded in 1938, is a trusted construction brand whose shingles are known for durability, energy efficiency, and a broad palette of colors and styles. It rounds out a strong field of asphalt options for homeowners who want proven performance.
Choosing the Right Asphalt Roof for Your Home
Asphalt shingles give homeowners a rare mix of long life, affordability, and curb appeal, with grades and brands to suit almost any budget and style. On Tops Roofing has installed more than 15,000 asphalt roofs across the Raleigh area since 1991, so we are glad to help you weigh your options and match the right shingle to your home and our climate. You can request a free estimate whenever you are ready.
FAQ
What are the three types of asphalt shingles?
Three-tab, architectural, and luxury. Three-tab is the flat, budget grade, architectural adds layers for a dimensional look and longer life, and luxury mimics slate or wood shake for a high-end appearance. Each steps up in durability, looks, and price.
How long does an asphalt shingle roof last?
It depends on the grade. Three-tab averages 15 to 20 years, architectural runs about 25 to 30 years, and luxury can reach 30 to 50 years. Proper installation, good ventilation, and regular maintenance help any asphalt roof reach the upper end of its range.
Are asphalt shingles cheaper than metal or slate?
Yes. Asphalt is one of the more affordable roofing materials, costing well below metal, clay tile, or slate. Even luxury asphalt shingles run far less than natural slate or cedar shake, which is a big part of their popularity.
Which asphalt shingle brand should I choose?
GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning all make quality shingles, so the right pick often comes down to the specific product, color, and warranty you want. Working with a certified installer matters as much as the brand, since installation quality drives how long the roof lasts.
Are architectural shingles worth the extra cost?
For most homeowners, yes. They cost only a little more than three-tab but add years of life, better wind resistance, a nicer look, and often a lifetime limited warranty. This mix is why architectural shingles have become the standard choice across North America.
