Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to roofing materials, Gunning Roofing recommends asphalt shingles, the most popular roofing material in the country. This page covers the information you will need to know when choosing the materials that will be used for your new roof. From three-tab, to architectural, Gunning Roofing has you covered when it comes to covering your roof.

Choosing Shingles

Whether three-tab or architectural, asphalt shingles are the way to go in the Treasure Valley. Not only do asphalt shingles hold up best in the Treasure Valley climate (hot summers and cold winters), they are the most affordable option, low maintenance, durable, and come in a variety of colors and styles.

Three-tab shingles are cheaper upfront and get the job done. Architectural shingles create an interesting look, can provide better value in the long run, and are becoming the residential standard.

Whichever you choose, buying your shingles through a reputable source is key. From our 30 years in the roofing business, we suggest purchasing your shingles through one of these three companies:

Certainteed

Owens Corning

Pabco

We encourage you to explore each website and compare price, warranty, finish, etc. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

The Two Types of Shingles: Architectural and Three-Tab

Three-Tab Shingles

There are two different types of asphalt shingles: Three-tab and architectural. Three-tab shingles are one-layer shingles split into three tabs along the lower edge in order to give the appearance of multiple, uniform shingles. They are easy to install and are the cheapest option in the market, but still make for a fine roof. Even the most basic three-tab shingles should come with some type of warranty (usually around 20 years) and fire-retardant treatment, but that is something you will want to confirm before purchasing.

Certainteed three-tab shingle

options available in nine colors.

Owens Corning three-tab shingle

Options available in eight colors.

Pabco three-tab Shinle

Options available in nine colors.

Architectural Shingles

If you’re looking for a roof with a little more character and substance, architectural shingles are
for you. They are more expensive than three-tab shingles (20% – 40% more), but they’re thicker (dual-layered), more durable, usually come with a longer warranty (up to 50 years) and have more style than their three-tab counterpart. Architectural shingles don’t have to be installed in a specific pattern, so their “random” placement creates a three-dimensional look that can mimic premium roofing material like wood or slate.

There are literally hundreds of architectural shingles available between the three companies. The following examples are just to give you an idea as to what they look like.