Three-tab shingles have been around for decades and remain one of the most widely recognized roofing materials. In the world of Olympia roofing, they’ve long been the budget-friendly option for homeowners. Simple in design and easier on the wallet, these shingles give families an affordable way to cover their homes without sacrificing basic protection.
At United Roofing Solutions, we still see plenty of homes across Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater with three-tab shingle systems. They may not offer the dimensional look of architectural shingles or the longevity of metal, but for many homeowners, they strike the right balance between affordability and function.
Call today at (360) 915-9116 for fast, friendly service from your trusted Olympia roofing contractor.
💲 Cost Rating: $$
⭐ Energy Efficiency: ★★☆☆☆
⭐ Longevity: ★★☆☆☆ (15–20 years)
⭐ Curb Appeal: ★★☆☆☆
⭐ Maintenance: ★★☆☆☆
⭐ Moss Resistance: ★★☆☆☆
⭐ Overall: ★★☆☆☆
Three-tab shingles score lower on longevity and moss resistance compared to other options. Still, they remain a practical entry point for Olympia homeowners looking to manage costs.
Affordability is the biggest advantage of three-tab shingles. Compared to architectural shingles or premium products, three-tab shingles are significantly less expensive upfront, which can be a deciding factor for many Olympia families. They’re also lightweight, which means most homes don’t need structural upgrades to support them.
Another benefit is availability. Because they’re so common, three-tab shingles are easy to source and install. This makes repairs simpler and often cheaper, which can be important when unexpected storm damage occurs. For homeowners on a budget who still need reliable roof installation, three-tab shingles offer a straightforward solution.
Call today at (360) 915-9116 for fast, friendly service from your trusted Olympia roofing contractor.
The downsides of three-tab shingles are tied directly to our Northwest climate. Olympia sees heavy rainfall and long stretches of damp weather, which often leads to moss and algae growth.
Three-tab shingles have thinner profiles and less resistance to moss intrusion compared to thicker, laminated architectural shingles. Regular roof maintenance and moss removal are essential to get the most life out of them.
Their lifespan is also shorter, typically around 15–20 years. That’s a decade less than many architectural shingles, and much less than materials like metal or slate. For homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term, it often makes sense to consider an upgrade to architectural composition shingles or even metal roofing.
United Roofing Solutions provides start-to-finish support for metal systems:
cost-effective solutions for homeowners watching their budget.
upgrading old three-tab systems to modern shingles.
spotting early signs of wear, curling, or lifting.
helping homeowners keep shingles moss-free for longer life.
fixing leaks, torn tabs, or missing shingles after storms.
Lower upfront cost
Lightweight and easy to install
Widely available materials and colors
Simple repairs
Shorter lifespan (15–20 years)
Poor moss resistance in Olympia’s damp climate
Less attractive than architectural shingles
May need replacement sooner
Call today at (360) 915-9116 for fast, friendly service from your trusted Olympia roofing contractor.
Even though three-tab shingles aren’t the longest-lasting option, they remain a smart choice for homeowners focused on upfront costs. At United Roofing Solutions, we know how to maximize the performance of three-tab shingles in Olympia’s wet weather.
From proper installation to ongoing inspections and moss control, we help homeowners get the most value from their roofs.
Locally owned and operated
Honest pricing with no gimmicks
Fast turnaround times
Strong workmanship warranties
Friendly, respectful crew
When you need a Olympia roofing contractor who puts your needs first, United Roofing Solutions is the clear choice. Call (360) 915-9116 today.
The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) notes that asphalt shingles, including three-tab, remain the most widely used steep-slope roofing material in the U.S. because of their affordability and ease of installation.
Meanwhile, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) reports that three-tab shingles typically last 15–20 years, compared to 25–30 years for architectural shingles. This highlights the tradeoff homeowners make when choosing the budget option.
Looking for reliable roofing contractor in the Olympia Area?
From expert roof repairs to full roof replacements, United Roofing Solutions delivers long-lasting, professional roofing services you can trust.
Protect your home—contact the best roofing contractor in Olympia today!
The Lattin’s Country Cider Mill and Farm is a great place to take a break from your daily routine. They have plenty of different bakery items, as well as multiple types of delicious Ciders. They opened in 1956, and are very cost efficient in terms of pricing.
The Hands On Children’s Museum is a great Family-Friendly entertainment center to take your kids. They are a very popular place to go to while visiting Olympia, Washington. We recommend taking a look at the museum’s many activities if your taking a trip with your kids to Olympia.
Construction of the old Capitol building was completed in 1892. It first served Thurston County as it’s Courthouse. In the early nineteen-hundreds it was purchased for use as the State Capitol Building. Olympia was centrally located for landholders to be able to visit the government as needed.
7615 Rainier Rd SE,
Olympia, WA 98513
(360) 915-9116
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