Let's Talk Shingles! (Architectural Vs. Three - Tab)
Tommy Leahy • January 21, 2026
There are many roofing materials available today, but asphalt shingles remain the most common choice for residential homes. When people refer to asphalt shingles, they’re typically talking about one of two main types: Architectural shingles or Three-Tab shingles.
Architectural shingles—also known as dimensional or laminate shingles—are constructed with multiple bonded layers of asphalt and fiberglass. This layered design creates depth and shadow lines, resulting in a more natural, high-end appearance. They began gaining popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s and have since become the dominant roofing choice thanks to their improved durability, stronger wind resistance, and enhanced curb appeal.
Three-tab shingles get their name from the three evenly cut tabs that give each strip the appearance of three separate shingles. They lie flat and uniform, creating a consistent, two-dimensional look. For decades, three-tab shingles were the standard because they were simple and affordable. Today, however, they are far less common due to their thinner construction and shorter lifespan, and they often indicate an older roof.
Roofing over existing shingles was more common in the past, particularly with three-tab shingles, because their flat, uniform design allowed additional layers to look acceptable. Modern architectural shingles are thicker and more textured, and installing new shingles over them can lead to uneven surfaces and performance issues. For this reason, full tear-offs are now commonly recommended as best practice in the industry.
At Peak, we install Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles—higher-grade architectural options designed for long-term performance and durability. These shingles offer enhanced thickness, superior wind resistance, and a more dimensional appearance compared to standard products.
We install every roof using manufacturer-recommended best practices to ensure proper performance and longevity. From full tear-offs to precise layout and proper ventilation, our focus is on delivering a roof that looks great and performs reliably for years to come.
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#localroofer #asphaltshinglesaltshingles #CertainTeed #pioneervalley
Learn how snow retention systems stop dangerous snow slides on metal roofs and why snow rails can be essential for safety and protection.
See our recent shingle installation on the Yetter Building in Greenfield, MA. Learn how quality roofing materials and expert installation protect local homes and buildings.
This exposed fastener metal roof in Florence was a complete transformation for a weathered, uninsulated barn addition that had seen better days. The existing roof had old three-tab shingles layered over three previous installations, leaving the structure in rough shape. Much of the original decking was deteriorated, so we reinforced it by adding new CDX plywood over the existing boards to ensure a solid foundation. Because the building isn’t insulated or finished on the inside, an exposed fastener metal system was the right choice—practical, cost-effective, and perfectly suited for a structure like this. The new roof provides lasting protection and a clean, functional look that elevates the barn’s overall appearance. While exposed fastener systems are durable, it’s worth noting that the screws should be replaced every 15–20 years to maintain a watertight seal as the washers naturally age over time. This installation gave new life to an aging structure while keeping the project efficient and budget-friendly for the homeowner. #FlorenceMA #MetalRoofing #ExposedFastenerRoof #BarnRoof #RoofRestoration #PeakPerformanceRoofing #WesternMassRoofing #RoofRepair #MetalBarnRoof #RoofMaintenance
A little while back—before the doors officially opened at their beautiful new location—we had the pleasure of working on a special project for Roundabout Books in Greenfield, MA. As this beloved independent bookstore prepared to move into its new home at 85 Pierce Street, inside the historic former Diamond Electric Soap Factory building, we helped get the space ready for its next chapter. We installed a new Standing Seam Metal Roof - a durable, timeless upgrade designed to complement the building’s classic red brick and timber character while standing up to New England’s weather for decades to come. The clean lines of the standing seam panels added a fresh, modern touch while preserving the building’s historic charm. The roof was also built solar-ready, allowing for future energy-saving upgrades when the time is right. It was an honor to support a local business that continues to be a cultural hub for the Pioneer Valley—and to help preserve such a beautiful piece of Greenfield’s history. 📚 If you’re looking for the perfect spot to shop local this holiday season, be sure to stop by Roundabout Books for an amazing selection of new, used, and rare books—and the cozy, community-driven atmosphere we all love. #RoundaboutBooks #GreenfieldMA #MetalRoofing #StandingSeamRoof #SolarReadyRoof #PeakPerformanceRoofing #WesternMassBusinesses #ShopLocal #HolidayShop
This stunning home in Florence, MA now features a CertainTeed Landmark roof in Charcoal Black, bringing a bold, timeless finish to its detailed Craftsman-style architecture. The deep, even tone of Charcoal Black complements the home’s soft gray-green siding and crisp white trim, creating a striking contrast that enhances every roofline and gable. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Landmark line offers trusted dual-layer durability and industry-leading protection—perfect for New England’s wide-ranging weather. The result is a sleek, architectural look that feels both modern and enduring, tying together the home’s sharp geometry and natural surroundings. #RoofingFlorence #CharcoalBlack #LandmarkShingles #CertainTeed #PeakPerformanceRoofing
This weathered barn in Williamsburg stood as a reminder of the area’s rural craftsmanship—until time and the elements took their toll. To preserve its rustic charm while ensuring decades of protection, we replaced the deteriorating corrugated panels with a brand-new exposed fastener metal roofing system. For barns, sheds, and outbuildings, exposed fastener panels are ideal: they’re cost-effective, quick to install, and perfectly suited to structures that need durability without the expense of standing seam. The visible screws add a rugged, traditional look that fits the character of old New England barns. By contrast, standing seam systems are better for residential and commercial applications, offering hidden fasteners for a sleek, watertight finish that complements modern architecture. This Williamsburg roofing project blends history and practicality—proving that sometimes, the best way to protect the past is with a smarter, stronger roof for the future. #RoofingWilliamsburgMA #MetalRoofing #ExposedFastener #BarnRestoration #PeakPerformanceRoofing #LocalRoofer
Earthdance Retreat Center, Plainfield MA – A New Red Standing Seam Roof for a Beloved Creative Space
Tucked away in the Berkshire hills, Earthdance is a renowned artist-run retreat center and residential community in Plainfield, Massachusetts. Since the 1980s, it has served as a home for dance, movement, and creative collaboration, hosting residencies, workshops, and community gatherings that celebrate art, mindfulness, and connection to nature. Its rustic architecture and peaceful setting have made it a cornerstone of the region’s artistic and spiritual landscape. When we were called to assess the roof, the main studio building was showing its age—failing asphalt shingles, water staining, and visible wear threatened the structure and its artistic spaces below. To restore both beauty and protection, our team installed a Standing Seam Metal Roof in Colonial Red. The new roof provides unmatched longevity, weather resistance, and energy efficiency, ensuring Earthdance remains a safe and inspiring space for decades to come. The bold red finish complements the natural wood siding and surrounding forest while harmonizing with the property’s other green metal roofs. This upgrade doesn’t just enhance durability—it captures the creative spirit of Earthdance itself: vibrant, enduring, and deeply connected to the natural world. #StandingSeamMetal #MetalRoofing #EarthdanceRetreat #PlainfieldMA #PeakPerformanceRoofing
This October, we had the honor of sponsoring the Swing FORE Recovery charity golf event in Baltimore, alongside our friends at Project Map It. The event raised over $18,000 for Roofers in Recovery, a nonprofit that helps individuals in the roofing industry access professional treatment for addiction. We’ve seen firsthand how meaningful this cause is. Roofers in Recovery provides 30-day recovery programs for those ready to make a change — and gives them the support they need to rebuild. It’s a mission we deeply believe in, and one that reflects the strength and solidarity of the roofing community. Seeing so many roofing companies come together to support this event — through sponsorships, donations, and participation — was both inspiring and humbling. We’re proud to have had our name alongside so many others who care about making a real difference. Thank you to Project Map It for organizing such a powerful and successful event. We’re already looking forward to 2026 and helping reach next year’s fundraising goal of $30,000. To learn more about Roofers in Recovery and their mission, visit: www.roofersinrecovery.com To learn more about Project Map It and the work they do for contractors: www.projectmapit.com — #RoofersInRecovery #SwingFORERecovery #ProjectMapIt #RoofingCommunity #RecoveryIsPossible #RoofersHelpingRoofers #GolfForGood #PeakPerformanceRoofing #RoofingLife #AddictionRecovery #WesternMassRoofing #ShingleStrong #MetalRoofing #SupportMatters
This Easthampton home now shines with a brand-new Landmark Pro roof in Max Def Coastal Blue, a color that perfectly balances depth and dimension. In direct sunlight, the shingles reveal bright ocean-toned highlights that bring a vibrant, refreshing look to the home’s exterior. As the light softens, the color shifts to a rich charcoal-blue with subtle shadowing that adds definition and contrast. This shade is exclusive to CertainTeed’s Landmark Pro line, designed for homeowners who want lasting durability with enhanced granule color technology. The result is a striking, long-lasting roof that looks elegant in any light—bright and coastal in the sun, bold and refined in the shade. - #RoofingEasthampton #LandmarkPro #CertainTeedRoofing #CoastalBlue #PeakPerformanceRoofing #RooferNearMe #LocalRoofer
Mitchell’s Funeral Home in Easthampton chose Peak Performance Roofing LLC for a Specialty Roofing Solution that blends timeless beauty with modern performance. The client wanted the classic look of clay roof tiles without the maintenance, so our team installed ATAS Techno Tile metal roofing—a durable, energy-efficient alternative that replicates the rich texture and color of traditional clay. We later expanded the project to include matching Techno Tiles on the elegant porte-cochère, enhancing the building’s curb appeal and architectural charm. This Easthampton roofing project perfectly showcases how metal roofing can deliver both style and longevity—proving it’s always a beautiful day for a beautiful roof. #RoofingEasthampton #RoofingEasthamptonMA #MetalRoofing #SpecialtyRoofing #PeakPerformanceRoofing #ATASTechnoTile
