When Moore & Sons Roofing meets with Grand Rapids homeowners and business owners exploring roof replacement options, one of the first questions we hear is: What are the types of shingles used when roofing? The answer comes down to three distinct categories of asphalt shingles—3-Tab, Architectural (also called Dimensional), and Luxury (or Premium). Each type offers different levels of durability, aesthetic appeal, and weather resistance for Michigan’s challenging climate. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right shingle for your property’s needs and budget.
Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and occasional severe storms make shingle selection particularly important. The type you choose affects everything from your roof’s lifespan to its ability to handle ice damming and wind uplift, whether you’re protecting a residence or a commercial building.
The Three Main Types of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles fall into three categories based on their construction and performance characteristics. 3-Tab shingles represent the most basic option, featuring a single flat layer with uniform cutouts that create a repetitive pattern. Architectural shingles use multiple laminated layers for added thickness and a dimensional appearance that mimics traditional slate or wood shake. Luxury shingles take this concept further with even heavier construction, enhanced visual depth, and premium features designed for maximum durability. Each type serves different needs, and what type of roof shingles are best depends on factors like your budget, property style, and how long you plan to own the building.
3-Tab Shingles: The Budget-Friendly Option
3-Tab shingles offer an economical roofing solution for property owners focused on basic protection for sloped roofs. These shingles typically weigh 200-250 pounds per square (100 square feet) and provide a flat, uniform look suitable for rental properties, smaller commercial buildings, or budget-conscious projects. They’re called “3-Tab” because three individual tabs are visible per shingle strip.
In Michigan’s climate, 3-Tab shingles generally last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. They carry wind ratings of 60-70 MPH and basic hail resistance. The thinner profile makes them more susceptible to damage from freeze-thaw cycles common in Grand Rapids winters.
Most manufacturers offer limited warranties of 20-25 years on 3-Tab products. While they cost less upfront—typically $90-150 per square—the shorter lifespan means you may need replacement sooner than with higher-grade options.
Architectural Shingles: The Popular Middle Ground
Architectural shingles dominate Michigan roofing for both residential and commercial properties because they balance performance and cost effectively. These shingles use two or more layers of asphalt laminated together, creating 300-400 pounds per square of protective weight. The multi-layer construction provides superior durability against cracking from temperature swings.
Architectural shingles typically last 25-30 years in Michigan conditions and carry wind ratings of 110-130 MPH—important protection against summer storms and winter gales. The thicker material composition offers better resistance to algae growth (those unsightly black streaks) when treated with copper or zinc granules.
Most manufacturers provide 30-50-year limited lifetime warranties with longer non-prorated coverage periods. Installation costs remain similar to 3-Tab shingles because the application process doesn’t require special techniques. At $150-250 per square, Architectural shingles deliver the best long-term value for most Grand Rapids properties.
Luxury Shingles: Premium Protection and Appearance
Luxury shingles sit at the top end of asphalt roofing, designed to deliver standout durability along with a high-end, dimensional appearance. Weighing 400-550 pounds per square, these premium products use multiple thick layers with varied sizes and shapes to create authentic slate or cedar shake aesthetics.
They excel in Michigan’s harsh climate, often lasting 35-50 years with proper care. Wind ratings reach 130-150 MPH, and many carry Class 4 impact resistance—the highest hail rating available. The substantial thickness provides excellent defense against freeze-thaw damage and ice-damming issues. Luxury shingles often include “Cool Roof” reflective options that reduce attic heat in summer, though Michigan’s moderate temperatures make this less critical than in southern climates.
Warranties extend to 50 years or lifetime coverage with generous non-prorated periods. The main consideration: Older homes or roofs with multiple existing layers may require a structural assessment to verify that the roof frame can support the additional weight. Pricing typically falls between $300 and $500 per square, making them ideal for high-end homes, professional offices, or commercial properties where appearance matters.
Which Type Provides the Best Defense Against Michigan Weather?
Michigan’s climate creates unique roofing challenges that influence which type of roofing shingles to put on your property. Freeze-thaw cycles cause ice to form in small gaps, then expand and contract repeatedly, leading to cracks and deterioration. Architectural and Luxury shingles handle these conditions better due to their thicker, more flexible composition. The multiple layers allow slight movement without breaking, while 3-Tab shingles’ rigid structure makes them prone to cracking.
For wind uplift resistance, Michigan typically experiences gusts of 50-70 MPH during storms, with occasional severe events reaching 80-100 MPH. The recommended minimum wind rating for Grand Rapids area properties is 110 MPH, which means Architectural or Luxury shingles provide appropriate protection.
Ice damming happens when warmth rises through the roof surface, causing snow to melt and then freeze again along the eaves. While proper attic insulation and ventilation matter most, heavier shingles may be more resistant to damage if water intrusion occurs, and proper underlayment assists with the defense.
Cost Comparison and Long-Term Value
Understanding the cost difference between shingle types helps you make an informed investment decision. For a typical 2,000 square foot property (approximately 20 roofing squares), 3-Tab shingles cost $1,800-3,000 in materials alone. Architectural shingles run $3,000-5,000, while Luxury options reach $6,000-10,000. Labor costs remain relatively consistent across types—$150-250 per square in the Grand Rapids area—because installation techniques don’t vary significantly.
The real value calculation involves lifespan: 3-Tab shingles at 15-20 years cost roughly $90-150 per year of protection, while Architectural shingles at 25-30 years cost $100-167 per year, and Luxury shingles at 35-50 years cost $120-200 per year. When you factor in avoiding a second replacement, Architectural shingles typically offer the best value for most properties.
Warranty differences matter too. Most 3-Tab warranties are heavily prorated after 10 years, meaning you’ll pay most replacement costs if failure occurs. Architectural and Luxury shingles often include 10-15 year non-prorated coverage and stronger wind/hail guarantees.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between 3-Tab, Architectural, and Luxury shingles depends on your specific situation. If you’re managing rental properties or need basic protection for a commercial building, 3-Tab shingles may suffice.
For most long-term Michigan property owners, Architectural shingles provide the ideal combination of durability, weather resistance, and value. Luxury shingles make sense when you want maximum longevity, have a higher-end property where appearance matters, or operate in an area particularly prone to severe storms.
Consider your building’s structural capacity, especially if constructed before 1980, before committing to heavier options. The team at Moore & Sons Roofing can assess your roof framing during a free inspection to determine weight limitations for both residential and commercial properties.
Get Expert Guidance for Your Michigan Roof
Selecting the right asphalt shingle type protects your property and maximizes your roofing investment. Moore & Sons Roofing has helped Grand Rapids area homeowners and business owners navigate these decisions since 2010, bringing second-generation expertise to every project.
We’ll evaluate your property’s specific needs, explain the performance differences between shingle types in Michigan’s climate, and provide transparent pricing for each option. Contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection and get personalized recommendations for your residential or commercial property.
