The difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles is construction: 3-tab shingles are a single flat layer cut into three uniform tabs; architectural (dimensional or laminated) shingles bond two or more layers together for a thicker shingle with depth and shadow lines. Architectural shingles cost more but carry far better wind and warranty terms: Owens Corning’s Supreme 3-tab has a 25-year limited warranty and a 60 mph wind warranty, while its Oakridge architectural shingle has a limited lifetime warranty and a 110 mph wind warranty, or 130 mph when installed with six nails and Owens Corning starter shingles at the eaves and rakes. For a home in Colorado Springs, choose architectural; 3-tab still makes sense on sheds and outbuildings.
Side by side
| 3-tab (Owens Corning Supreme) | Architectural (Owens Corning Oakridge) | |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | One layer, three uniform tabs | Laminated layers with varied shapes |
| Look | Flat, brick-like pattern | Dimensional; can suggest shake or slate |
| Wind | 60 mph limited warranty | 110 mph; 130 mph with six nails and OC starter at eaves and rakes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited | Limited lifetime |
| Fire | Class A UL fire rating | See the product listing |
| Impact (hail) | Not impact-rated | Not impact-rated |
| Best for | Sheds, outbuildings, short-term rentals | Most homes |
Figures are Owens Corning’s own published product and warranty statements; other manufacturers’ lines differ.
Why architectural wins on most Colorado Springs homes
- Wind. Front Range wind lifts shingles at the edges and ridge. A 60 mph wind warranty leaves little margin; the architectural line starts at 110 mph.
- Weight and thickness. Laminated layers stand up better to wear and handling, and they hide minor deck irregularities.
- Curb appeal. Dimensional shingles read as a newer, more finished roof, which matters at resale.
- Matching after repairs. If the color or profile on an older roof has been discontinued, a patch will not match. On a 3-tab roof that is often the deciding factor after a storm.
Where 3-tab still makes sense
- Detached garages, sheds and outbuildings.
- A rental or a house you will sell soon, where the lowest installed cost wins.
- A small repair on an existing 3-tab roof that is otherwise sound.
What drives the price difference
We do not quote prices off the internet, because roofs differ too much. The difference between the two comes from the shingle cost per square, the matching hip and ridge and starter, nail count for the wind rating, and how steep and cut-up the roof is. On a quote from us, Good, Better and Best options sit side by side so you can see the exact difference on your house. Our Colorado Springs roof replacement cost guide lists the other cost drivers.
Beyond architectural: Class 4 and designer shingles
If hail is your main worry, the next step up is a UL 2218 Class 4 shingle. Read is a Class 4 shingle worth it in Colorado? and compare the full range in Owens Corning shingles we install. For the terms you will see on an insurance estimate, see composition shingles explained. Low-slope sections have their own rules; see planning your roof’s slope. Choosing a color in Texas heat? See Austin’s most popular roof colors.
Our shingle and product guides cover Class 4 shingles, underlayment and ventilation, and our roof material comparisons cover metal, tile, slate and cedar.
Compare them on your roof
Integrity Roofing and Painting is veteran-owned and family-run since 1990, an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred contractor with 650+ Google reviews. Call (719) 488-2800 or book a free Colorado Springs roof inspection, and see asphalt shingle roofing in Colorado Springs. Financing is available.
Sources: Owens Corning, Supreme 3-tab shingles and Oakridge shingles; Owens Corning newsroom, Oakridge introduction (2013); City and County of Denver, Roofing Guide and Checklist (updated 4/11/2024).
