Timberline, Designer, IR, and 3 Tab. What do they all have in common?
They all have GAF-backed Warranties. All are available in various color palettes. And we can install all four options on your home. Not all at once— of course!
So, which one should you trust for your Virginia Beach roof replacement?
There’s a lot to consider. Aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, costs, durability, warranties, etc. Etc.
Let’s focus on these three:
- Weather resistance: What kind of damage can it take? What kind of winds can it withstand? Which extremes can it protect against?
- Budget: We always try to be transparent with prices.
- Maintenance: What do you have to do over the course of your ownership?
Aesthetic appeal is a matter of taste— your taste. Luckily, each option has various colors. Energy efficiency? If you’re interested, you’ll probably enjoy more fulfillment from a solar power system or a metal roof. Warranties? All of our projects are backed by manufacturer and workmanship warranties.
3-Tab Shingles
3-Tab shingles are your grandpa’s roofing material. It’s true; older houses are more likely to have 3-tab shingles. They’ve been installing them on houses since the 1950s. We keep using them because they are affordable and straightforward to install.
They also have the lowest wind resistance rating (60 to 70 MPH). Newer designs evolved higher wind resistance.
These shingles can range from $3.20 to $7.75 per square foot. On average, they are around $4.00 to $4.65 per square foot. Remember, these are rough estimates. The best way to get a better estimate is to have someone inspect your roof.
On the maintenance side, they are more prone to mold and mildew growth. Due to their low durability, they are also more likely to need frequent repairs. However, they are easy to maintain in the sense that bad shingles are easy to replace.
Modified IR Shingles
IR stands for impact resistant, and it is designed for that purpose. It can withstand severe weather and hail hits, up to 130-150 mph winds, and hail 2 inches in diameter. For context, category 3 hurricanes have winds from 111 to 129 mph. Their durability makes them perfect for Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads Area.
They require less maintenance than 3-Tab Shingles and are less likely to need roof repairs after severe weather.
Budget-wise, they are more expensive than 3-Tab Shingles, but the cost is justified in strength. Again, it’s hard to give an exact estimate without a roof to estimate. Factors such as roof complexity, labor, and timeline influence costs.
Designer shingles
These are the most expensive but also the most visually enhancing. While they offer good protection, their design goal is aesthetic.
As the name suggests, designer shingles come in various colors and palettes. They can even mimic the look of materials like slate or wood shakes. Their premium look and durability can increase a home’s value, making them popular among home flippers.
Their durability helps with roofing maintenance. However, it’s recommended that you clean designer shingles routinely (every 1 to 3 years) to maintain their aesthetic value.
Timberline Collection
The Timberline Collection is GAF’s most popular line of shingles. They are designed to provide strong wind resistance, long-term durability, and beauty.
Timberline is a jack of all trades. These shingles come in various colors and palettes. They are durable and less likely to need frequent repairs. They can withstand winds ranging from 80 to 130 mph. However, we recommend inspecting them at least twice a year or after major storms.
A solid, well-rounded shingle for almost every home. However, that comes at a higher price range and average cost. These shingles can range from $4.50 to $12.25 per square foot. The average cost is around $5.86 per square foot. More expensive than IR but less costly than Designer Shingles.
Which one should you choose?
That depends on your homeownership goals, budget, and needs. Nonetheless, we’re here to help! We are an expert local roofing company in Virginia Beach. Schedule a free, no-pressure roofing inspection to discuss your options.