St. Pete Roofing Companies Compare Shingles

Choosing the Right Shingles: 3-Tab vs. Architectural vs. Luxury — What St. Pete Homeowners Need to Know

Roofing materials are not uniform in quality, particularly when it comes to asphalt shingles. In St. Petersburg, Florida, roofs must withstand intense heat, high humidity, and powerful hurricane winds. As such, selecting high-quality roofing materials is important. If you are currently evaluating your options and seeking reputable St. Pete roofing companies to assist in your decision-making process, Drew Roofing is well-equipped to guide you towards the optimal choice for your needs.

Are There Different Kinds Of Asphalt Shingles Used By St. Pete Roofing Companies?

There are three primary categories of asphalt shingles widely utilized in the roofing industry: 3-Tab, Architectural, and Luxury. Each variety possesses distinct advantages and disadvantages that homeowners will want to consider.

3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

3-Tab shingles, also known as strip shingles, are among the most economical and lightweight options. As a result, they feature a flat, uniform appearance with a single layer of material. While cost-effective, they may not offer the same durability or aesthetic appeal as their counterparts.

Pros:

Lowest initial cost
Lightweight (easier on older roof structures)
Simple, clean look

Cons:

Shorter lifespan (typically 10-15 years)
Less resistant to high winds — not ideal for hurricane-prone areas like St. Petersburg
Limited curb appeal
More prone to curling or blowing off over time

Three tab shingles are the best choice for budget-conscious projects or short-term ownership (e.g., rental properties, flips). Furthermore, while they may not offer the longevity or durability of higher-end shingles, they provide a practical solution when budget and simplicity are key concerns.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, often referred to as dimensional or laminated shingles, boast a multi-layered construction that creates a textured, three-dimensional appearance. They’re thicker, more durable, and offer a more textured, layered appearance. Consequently, this design enhances visual depth and provides increased resistance to weather elements. This shingle type is used by most St. Pete roofing companies when installing a new roof. However, architectural shingles typically command a higher price point compared to 3-Tab variants.

Pros:

Longer lifespan (15-20 years)
Better resistance to wind and impact — crucial in the Florida climate
Visually appealing (adds depth and texture to your roof)
Great value for the cost

Cons:

More expensive than 3-tab
Heavier, which may require roof reinforcement for some older homes

These shingles are ideal for most residential homes in St. Petersburg, Florida. They offer durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness. Thus, making them a great choice for homeowners seeking a well-rounded roofing solution.

Luxury Shingles

Luxury asphalt shingles represent the highest tier of asphalt roofing. In fact, they offer exceptional durability, weather resistance, and visual appeal. They are expertly engineered to replicate the rich, dimensional look of natural slate or hand-split cedar shake, giving homes a premium finish without the weight or cost of real materials. Ideal for upscale properties, these shingles combine striking aesthetics with long-lasting performance.

Pros:

Longest lifespan (20-30 years)
Superior wind and impact resistance — great for Florida storms
High-end curb appeal — great for upscale homes
Potential insurance discounts due to impact resistance

Cons:

Highest cost
Heaviest shingle type — may need structural reinforcement
Longer installation time and higher labor costs

Luxury asphalt shingles are an excellent choice for high-end homes, coastal properties, and discerning homeowners seeking a long-term roofing solution. In fact, their superior durability and resistance to wind, moisture, and impact make them especially well-suited for Florida’s challenging coastal climate. With their upscale appearance and extended lifespan, they offer both aesthetic value and a strong return on investment over time.

What Works Best for St. Pete Homes?

Living in St. Petersburg means roofing materials must stand up to sun, salt air, and tropical storms. For this reason, we usually recommend architectural asphalt shingles for most homeowners in the area. Consequently, while 3-tab shingles may save money upfront, they often don’t hold up well in Florida’s harsh climate, which leads to earlier replacement and higher lifetime costs. Although luxury asphalt shingles offer the kind of durability many homeowners seek, the higher expense might be overkill. For those considering luxury asphalt shingles for their durability, upgrading to a metal roof might be a more viable option instead.

If You Are Searching for the Best St. Pete Roofing Companies, Call Drew Roofing Today

Drew Roofing is proud to be one of the top-rated St. Pete roofing companies. Here, we serve homeowners with expert installation, local knowledge, and roofing systems built to last in Florida weather. Therefore, if you are in need of a roof replacement or building something new, we’ll help you choose the perfect shingles for your budget and style. Call Drew Roofing at (727) 522-3739 today and get a free estimate or contact us on our website here. When it comes to protecting your home, see why more St. Pete homeowners trust Drew Roofing.