roofing

3-tab asphalt shingles

Flat-profile asphalt-saturated shingles with three pre-cut tabs. The lowest-cost asphalt option; flatter, more uniform appearance than architectural shingles.

Cost tier

BUDGET

Cost / sqft

$2–$4

Install

trade

Durability

medium

Maintenance

low

Moisture

excellent

Cost notes

Service life ~15-20 years. Wind rating typically 60 mph; consider architectural for higher.

Aesthetic

Finish: matte
Color range: black, gray, brown, weatherwood
Visual weight: light

Climate suitability

✓ Hot-humid

✓ Hot-dry

✓ Mixed-humid

✓ Mixed-dry

✓ Cold

✓ Arctic

Code notes

IRC R905.2 governs asphalt shingles. Class A, B, or C fire rating depending on product. In WUI areas, Class A is recommended per FEMA ember-protection guidance.

Codes & rules that govern this material

FEMA P-2325 §U.S. Virgin Islands Case Study (HPRP)

Roofing must be properly attached for high-wind survival

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) · recommended

FEMA P-2325 §Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI)

In WUI zones, protect openings from wind-blown embers

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) · recommended

Source

Architectural Graphic Standards — Architectural Graphic Standards (Ramsey/Sleeper) — Materials chapter

Tags: asphalt, budget, shingle