Asphalt shingles come in several distinct types: 3-tab, architectural, luxury, and impact-resistant, each offering trade-offs in appearance, lifespan, cost, and weather performance. Homeowners in Fargo, ND should consider not just the look of their new roof, but how well it stands up to the region’s freeze-thaw cycles, high winds, and frequent hail. This guide compares the major asphalt shingle categories and explains which type may be the best fit based on durability, warranty options, insurance incentives, and long-term value. Whether you manage a rental property or own your forever home, understanding these differences, when it comes to asphalt shingle roofing, can help you make a smarter roofing decision that lasts through every North Dakota season.
The Main Types of Asphalt Shingles Explained
Asphalt shingles fall into several main categories, each designed with different materials, lifespans, and performance levels. Understanding the core differences between 3-tab, architectural, luxury, and impact-resistant shingles will help you choose the right option for your home and climate.
H3: 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
3-tab shingles are the most basic and budget-friendly type of asphalt roofing, defined by their flat, uniform design with three evenly spaced tabs per strip. Made from a single layer of fiberglass-reinforced asphalt, they offer a lightweight profile that’s easy to install but limited in strength. While often chosen for lower-cost roof replacements or outbuildings, 3-tab shingles typically have a shorter lifespan – around 20 to 25 years and lower wind resistance, with most products rated up to 60 mph. In the Fargo-Moorhead region, where winter storms and wind gusts are common, this type of shingle may fall short in long-term durability compared to newer, reinforced alternatives.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, are a multi-layered upgrade over 3-tab designs, offering better durability, longer warranties, and a more textured, high-end appearance. Made by bonding two or more asphalt layers together, these shingles create a contoured profile that mimics the look of wood shakes or slate, while providing enhanced wind and impact resistance. In the Fargo climate, where roof structures face seasonal freeze-thaw cycles and sustained wind gusts, architectural shingles deliver stronger long-term performance, with many products rated for winds up to 110 or even 130 mph and lifespans reaching 30 years or more.
Luxury or Designer Shingles
Luxury shingles, sometimes called designer shingles, are the thickest, heaviest, and most visually striking asphalt roofing products available. Built with multiple laminated layers and often styled to resemble cedar shakes or quarried slate, these shingles offer high curb appeal for premium homes and historic properties. Their increased weight translates to excellent wind resistance and better insulation against harsh weather conditions, including heavy snow loads and ice dams common in Fargo’s winters. Most luxury shingles come with enhanced lifetime warranties and lifespans exceeding 40 to 50 years when installed correctly. While their upfront cost is higher, many homeowners see them as a long-term investment in both durability and aesthetics, especially when resale value or HOA design standards are a consideration.
Impact-Resistant Shingles
Impact-resistant shingles are engineered to withstand hail strikes and flying debris by incorporating rubber-like asphalt blends or reinforced fiberglass mats that absorb blunt force. Products rated as Class 4 under UL 2218 – the highest impact-resistance designation are tested to resist cracking when struck by steel balls simulating hail up to 2 inches in diameter. While Class 4 shingles aren’t hail-proof and don’t guarantee damage prevention, they significantly reduce the risk of fractures that lead to leaks or early roof failure. In the upper Midwest, where hailstorms are a growing insurance concern, these shingles may qualify for premium discounts, though policies vary by carrier. Compared to standard architectural shingles, Class 4 products look nearly identical but offer an added layer of resilience, making them ideal for homeowners in hail-prone zones or those seeking greater long-term protection.
Asphalt Shingle Comparison Table
| Attribute | 3-Tab Shingles | Architectural Shingles | Luxury/Designer Shingles | Impact-Resistant Shingles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Appearance | Flat, uniform pattern | Layered, dimensional profile | Thick, high-end shake/slate look | Same as architectural (varies by brand) |
| Layers | Single-layer | Multi-layer (laminated) | Multi-layer, premium construction | Multi-layer with reinforced core |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 60 mph | 110–130 mph | 130+ mph | 110–130 mph |
| Hail Protection | Low | Moderate | High | Very High (Class 4 UL 2218) |
| Lifespan | 20–25 years | 30–40 years | 40–50+ years | 30–40 years |
| Warranty | Basic limited | Limited lifetime | Enhanced lifetime | Limited lifetime + enhanced warranty |
| Installed Cost per Sq. | $250–$300 | $350–$550 | $600–$900+ | $450–$700 |
| Weight | Light (180–220 lbs/sq) | Medium (240–300 lbs/sq) | Heavy (300–400+ lbs/sq) | Medium to heavy |
| Best Use Cases | Budget roofs, garages, rentals | Long-term homes, balanced budgets | High-end homes, aesthetic upgrades | Hail zones, insurance incentives |
What’s the Best Asphalt Shingle for Your Fargo-Area Home?
The best asphalt shingle for your home in Fargo depends on how long you plan to stay, what kind of weather protection you need, and how much you value appearance versus cost. For homeowners looking for a balance between affordability and resilience, architectural shingles offer the strongest all-around value and are the most commonly installed type in the Fargo-Moorhead area. If you’re in a hail-prone neighborhood or want to pursue possible insurance savings, upgrading to a Class 4 impact-resistant shingle makes practical sense. Luxury shingles, while more expensive, are ideal for custom homes or properties where visual impact and premium warranties matter. Budget-conscious property owners or landlords may still opt for 3-tab shingles but they should be aware of the trade-offs in wind resistance and lifespan, especially in a region where roof performance matters year-round.
Shingle Brands We Trust and Install
At Fargo Roofing & Siding, we install asphalt shingles from three of the most trusted manufacturers in the roofing industry: CertainTeed and Owens Corning. Each of these brands offers a full spectrum of shingles, including 3-tab, architectural, luxury, and Class 4 impact-resistant options, allowing us to match the right product to your home’s needs, budget, and style. These manufacturers are known not just for durability and innovation, but also for standing behind their products with industry-leading warranties, including enhanced coverage when installed by certified contractors. Whether you’re looking for the best value or the highest curb appeal, we source shingles that perform reliably in Fargo’s challenging weather and meet North Dakota building code standards.
North Dakota Roofing Shingle FAQ – Types, Lifespans, and Insurance Benefits
Are 3-tab shingles still used in North Dakota?
Yes, but mostly for budget-conscious projects like detached garages, rental properties, or temporary roof replacements. Most new residential roofs in the Fargo-Moorhead area now use architectural shingles because they offer better performance in wind, snow, and seasonal freeze-thaw conditions.
How do I know if impact-resistant shingles qualify for an insurance discount?
Only Class 4 shingles rated under UL 2218 are considered impact-resistant for insurance purposes. Some North Dakota insurers offer discounts for Class 4 roofs, but eligibility varies – always check with your provider before installation. You’ll likely need documentation from the manufacturer and your contractor.
What’s the difference between architectural and luxury shingles?
Architectural shingles are laminated for depth and strength, while luxury shingles are thicker, heavier, and styled to resemble premium materials like slate or cedar shake. Luxury shingles cost more but deliver higher curb appeal and often come with extended warranties and 50+ year lifespans.
Do asphalt shingles hold up to hail and snow in Fargo?
Yes, but not all types perform equally. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles offer the best protection against hail, while architectural and luxury shingles handle snow loads and freeze-thaw cycles better than 3-tab options. Proper attic ventilation and installation technique are just as important as the shingle type.
How long do different shingle types last?
Lifespans vary by material and build:
- 3-tab: 20-25 years
- Architectural: 30-40 years
- Luxury: 40-50+ years
- Impact-Resistant: 30-40 years, depending on base design
Actual longevity depends on weather exposure, attic ventilation, and installation quality.
Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Shingles for Your Roof
Choosing the right asphalt shingle isn’t just about style, it’s about long-term protection for your home in a climate where roofs take a beating year-round. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each shingle type, Fargo-area homeowners and property managers can make more confident, cost-effective decisions. Whether you’re budgeting for a basic replacement or investing in a premium upgrade, Fargo Roofing & Siding is here to help you navigate your options and ensure your new roof is built to last.
Schedule your free roof inspection or request a quote today – our team will walk you through the best-fit shingles for your home, your goals, and North Dakota’s demanding weather.
