QA

Quick Answer: How To Install 3 Tab Shingles

Are 3-tab shingles easier to install?

3-tab shingles are easily identifiable because of their design. They have three notches at the lower edge of the shingles, making them easy to install. It is composed of thin, lightweight material, and it does not take much effort in the installation process.

Do you need starter strip for 3-tab shingles?

A lot of roofers claim you don’t need to use officially designated starter strip shingles and instead opt for using repurposed 3-tab shingles as the starter strip. Starter shingles should always overhang the eave and rake edges of the roof by about 1/4″-3/4″ to ensure adequate rain water drainage.

How many nails do you put in a 3-tab shingle?

NAILING: Use galvanized (zinc coated) roofing nails, 11 or 12 gauge, with at least 3/8″ diameter heads, long enough to penetrate through plywood or 3/4″ into boards. Use 4 nails per shingle placed 6-1/8″ above the butt edge, 1″ and 13″ in from each end and 1/2″ above each cutout.

How far should shingles overhang drip edge?

Asphalt shingles should overhang the exterior edge of the drip edge by ¼ to ¾-inch. Check local building code for drip edge requirements prior to the start of your roofing project.

What’s the difference between architectural shingles and 3 tab shingles?

3-tab shingles are flat, and they have a single tab shape and size. Architectural shingles are also referred to as dimensional shingles. This is because they provide a more dimensional look to the roof. Each shingle appears more dimensional because it is; multiple layers of materials adhere to the base.

How many layers of shingles can you put on a roof?

In most states, you’re only allowed to have 2 layers of shingles on a roof for fire safety reasons. However, you’ll still see roofs that have 3 or 4 layers today. If you already have 2 or more layers, a contractor will recommend a full replacement.

Are dimensional shingles better than 3 tab shingles?

Dimensional shingles are about 15% more than 3-tab shingles, but give you more life and better warranty options. Luxury shingles are the most expensive option of the 3 types. They’re going to be almost double the cost of dimensional shingles, but they’re one of the most aesthetically pleasing roofs you’ll see.

Are architectural shingles worth it?

In a word, yes—the benefits of architectural shingles make the extra cost more than worth it. (Which, depending on your contractor, is around $15 per square. Architectural shingles have many benefits, including better curb appeal, improved wind resistance, and a longer manufacturer warranty.

What is the price difference between 3 tab shingles and architectural?

When it comes to cost, architectural shingles typically runs $35 to $45 per bundle. Three-tab shingles cost an average of $25 to $30 per bundle. On the surface, the architectural shingles are 40 to 50 percent more expensive.

Do you put starter shingles on the rake?

A starter shingle is used to seal with the field shingle at the first course along the eave and rake. This helps prevent wind and water from getting beneath the shingle in this critical location. Starter shingles are installed so they overhang the edge of the eaves slightly to allow for water runoff.

Do you put starter shingles over ice and water shield?

We don’t recommend installing a drip edge after your starter shingles. In fact, the proper order to follow should be your drip edge first, along with an underlayment such as an ice and water shield. Roofing felt should also go before installing starter shingles.

How long do 30 year architectural shingles really last?

The truth is, a 30-year shingle will not really last 30 years. The expected service life of a 30-year product, if properly cared for, is approximately 25 years. If it’s not cared for properly, that 30 year shingle will only last 12 to 15 years.

What size nails do you use for shingles?

If you’re using typical architectural shingles and 3/8-inch-thick sheathing, you’ll need 1‐inch nails. If your building codes require thicker sheathing, you’ll need 1 ¼-inch nails. When installing thicker shingles, you may need to use a longer nail in order to penetrate the OSB beneath fully.

Are you supposed to remove the plastic strip on the back of shingles?

The GAF shingle application instructions for our entire product line specifically state that that film does not need to be removed. Note: The film strips on the back of each shingle are to prevent sticking together of the shingles while in the bundle. Their removal is NOT required during application.

How far should shingles overhang the rake?

The edge of the shingles should hang over a roof between an inch and an inch and a half — or between a half inch and three-quarters of an inch if drip edge flashing is installed. Too much overhang and the shingles could blow off in high winds; too little can allow water to seep into rake or fascia boards.