What Are 3-Tab Shingles - And Why Are They Being Replaced by Architectural Shingles?

 

What Are 3-Tab Shingles?

3-tab shingles are made from a single layer of asphalt and are designed with three evenly spaced “tabs,” giving them a flat, uniform look. For years, they were a budget-friendly roofing option and widely used across residential homes.

However, their thin construction, limited durability, and basic appearance have led to a shift in the industry—and for good reason.

3-Tab vs. Architectural Shingles: What’s the Difference?

Feature	3-Tab Shingles	Architectural Shingles (IKO Dynasty)
Appearance	Flat and uniform	Dimensional, textured, premium look
Construction	Single layer	Multi-layered for extra thickness
Durability	Prone to wind and weather damage	Engineered for extreme weather
Lifespan	15–20 years	30+ years with proper installation
Wind Rating	60–70 mph	Up to 130 mph with IKO’s ArmourZone®
Warranty	Limited	Industry-leading limited lifetime warranty
Curb Appeal	Basic	High-end, modern look with deep shadow lines

Why 3-Tab Shingles Are Being Phased Out

1. Shorter Lifespan
   3-tab shingles simply don’t last as long. They wear out faster, especially in areas with heavy rainfall, snow, or strong sun exposure.
2. Less Wind and Impact Resistance
   Because they’re lightweight and thin, they’re more likely to blow off or crack under pressure. In contrast, IKO Dynasty shingles include ArmourZone® reinforced nailing strips that provide superior wind and uplift protection—rated up to 130 mph.
3. Outdated Appearance
   Homeowners today want more than basic. Architectural shingles offer a bold, dimensional look that enhances curb appeal and adds value to the home.
4. Fewer Manufacturer Options
   Many shingle manufacturers are reducing or discontinuing 3-tab lines, offering fewer color choices and shorter warranties. The roofing industry is moving forward—and so are we.

Why Brown Roofing Chooses IKO Dynasty Shingles

At Brown Roofing, we believe in using only the best materials for our customers. That’s why we exclusively install IKO Dynasty shingles on all our roofing projects.

Why IKO Dynasty?

• Built-in ArmourZone® technology for unmatched wind resistance
• Thick, dimensional design for a premium look
• Wide nailing zone for better installation and long-term reliability
• Algae-resistant granules to prevent unsightly staining
• Backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry

Whether you're replacing a worn-out 3-tab roof or building new, IKO Dynasty shingles give you the peace of mind and protection your home deserves.

How Can a Homeowner Tell If They Have 3-Tab or Architectural Shingles?

Not sure what kind of shingles are on your roof? Don’t worry—there are a few simple ways to tell the difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles just by looking at the roof from the ground.

1. Look at the Pattern

• 3-Tab Shingles:
  These have a flat, uniform pattern. Each shingle is cut into three equal “tabs,” giving the roof a clean, straight-lined appearance across the entire surface—like rows of rectangles.
• Architectural Shingles:
  These have a staggered, dimensional look. The shingles vary in shape and size, creating a textured, layered appearance that mimics wood shakes or slate. You’ll notice more shadowing and depth when you look at the roof.

2. Check the Thickness

• 3-Tab Shingles:
  They’re made from a single layer of material and appear very flat on the roof.
• Architectural Shingles:
  These are made with multiple layers of asphalt, making them visibly thicker and giving the roof a more substantial, sculpted look.

3. Consider the Age of the Roof

• If your roof is over 15–20 years old, there’s a good chance it’s a 3-tab roof.
• Architectural shingles became the industry standard over the last 15 years, so if your roof is newer, it’s more likely to have architectural shingles.

4. Look for Shingle Damage or Curling

• 3-tab shingles are more prone to curling at the edges, especially as they age.
• Architectural shingles typically hold their shape longer and resist curling due to their thicker, layered construction.

5. Ask a Roofing Professional

If you're still unsure, the easiest way to find out is to schedule a free roof inspection. At Brown Roofing, we’re happy to come out, take a look, and let you know exactly what type of shingle you have—and whether it’s time to consider an upgrade.

Spot the Difference, Protect Your Home

Being able to identify your shingle type is the first step toward making smart roofing decisions. If you suspect you have aging 3-tab shingles, now’s the perfect time to consider replacing them with IKO Dynasty architectural shingles—a beautiful and durable solution that will stand the test of time.

Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?

If your home still has a 3-tab roof, now is the perfect time to consider an upgrade. The team at Brown Roofing will walk you through every step—from color selection to final inspection—and ensure your new roof looks great and stands the test of time.

Contact us today to schedule a free estimate or learn more about the benefits of architectural shingles.