Compare shingle profiles, product-specific impact testing and the installation details behind the finished roof.
Free roof inspectionA closer look at the roof
Repair or replacementWork that fits the condition
Homes and commercial roofsThe right scope for the building
Choose the Shingle and the Assembly
A shingle choice changes more than color. Profile, exact product, tested performance and the matching roof-system details all matter. The existing deck, roof pitch and flashing still have to support that choice.
Use the comparison to understand the options, then relate them to your roof during a free inspection. A named product’s rating is useful information; the installed roof is still an assembly.
Compare Asphalt Shingle Options
Option
What it changes
What stays important
Three-tab
A flatter repeated tab pattern.
Product requirements, suitable slope, support, fastening and roof connections.
Architectural
A laminated, layered profile with product-specific colors and performance.
Compatible starter, ridge products, underlayment and flashing details.
Designer
Distinct shapes or profiles for a different roof appearance.
The exact product’s weight, details and installation requirements.
Impact-classified
A named product has been tested to a stated impact standard.
A test classification does not guarantee an undamaged roof in every storm.
Impact Testing Is Product Specific
An impact rating belongs to a specific product tested under a defined method. It does not apply automatically to every product sold under the same manufacturer’s name. IBHS also publishes product and year-specific hail testing that looks at damage such as dents, tears and granule loss.
The test result helps compare a product’s performance. Roof condition, installation and the actual storm remain part of the real outcome. Insurance discounts, where offered, depend on the insurer and policy rather than the product label alone.
Color, Warranty and Installation Choices
Appearance
A color sample can look different across a broad roof and in changing light. The house exterior and the profile help guide the visual choice. Appearance does not establish impact performance.
Assembly
Starter, underlayment, ventilation, edges and flashing work with the selected shingles. A compatible material is only part of a correctly built roof.
Coverage terms
Material warranties and workmanship coverage address different problems. The issuer, covered product or work, exclusions and remedy determine the actual coverage.
Shingle Options FAQs
Does architectural mean impact resistant?
No. Architectural describes a shingle construction/profile category. Impact performance is established by the specific product and test classification.
Does a Class 4 label guarantee no hail damage?
No. It describes performance in a particular impact test. Real storms, roof ageing and installation differ from that test.
Can I choose shingles before deciding whether to repair?
You can explore the options, but repair depends on compatibility with the existing roof and sound surrounding material. A new full-roof product choice is a different decision from matching a local repair.
