The difference between 3-tabs and dimensional shingle roofs in Miami is broken down in detail. Roofer Mike makes a compelling case for homeowners wrestling with the choice.
In Miami Dade tile roofs dominate and define the area with metal roofs coming on strong in the last decade. 3-tab shingles have an average life cycle of about twenty years in the face of the South Florida heat, basically a budget alternative for Miami homeowners given that tile lasts 30-40 years and metal roofs are potentially a lifetime system. However, dimensional roof shingles in Miami are a real option. With a little maintenance they can last 25 years or more.
Added thickness gives dimensional roof shingles a longer life cycle as well as greater wind resistance. Most 3-tabs are warranted to 60mph. GAF Timberline HD dimensional shingles, my personal preference, are covered up to 130mph. Considering they only cost a bit more and are more attractive, the decision is a no-brainer when given the choice.
Dimensional Shingles – A Great Value
The owners of these homes considered the choice : 3-tab or dimensional . . . 70mph or 130mph . . . just OK or aesthetically attractive? 3-tabs cost us about $70/sq . . . Timberlines $90. Each roof was 2000 – 3000 square feet. So, the extra cost was $400-$600. That is a modest increase for roofs starting at $10,000. We do not mark up shingle options for labor or profit. For these jobs we added $20/sq. Cost, period. It really is a “no-brainer”, so it came as no surprise when all three chose the upgrade. Over the years that has almost always been the case with the exception of the occasional homeowner who is selling , “flippers” and landlords. I try not to work for the latter two, They want it cheap and right now, not a good combination for me, so we don’t do many 3-tabs.
People usually think of metal roofs, tile roofs and shingle roofs as their three basic choices for sloped roof systems. Considering their superiority over 3-tabs for only 20¢ a foot, a strong case can be made for dimensional roof shingles deserving of their own category.
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