Architectural Shingles
Architectural Shingles | Roofing | Philadelphia
Transform your Philadelphia home into a standout on the block with HEP’s premium architectural shingles. Our craftsmen layer each shingle for dramatic depth and shadow, giving you the upscale look of slate or cedar without the hefty price tag. Engineered to shrug off Nor’easter winds, driving rain, and city soot, these shingles offer Class A fire resistance and cool-roof technology that can help lower summer energy bills—all backed by industry-leading warranties.
Choosing HEP means partnering with a local team that knows Philly rowhomes, historic twins, and sprawling Main Line estates inside and out. We handle every detail—from swift tear-offs to meticulous flashing—so your new roofing delivers peak performance and curb appeal for decades. Ready to protect your investment and elevate your neighborhood? Schedule a free, no-pressure consultation today and see why your neighbors trust HEP to put a designer finish on every roof.
FAQs
What are architectural shingles and how do they differ from traditional 3-tab shingles?
Architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminate shingles) are a thicker, multi-layer asphalt product designed to mimic the look of wood shakes or slate. Compared with standard 3-tab shingles, they use heavier fiberglass mats and multiple asphalt layers, giving the roof a three-dimensional appearance, better wind resistance (up to 130 mph, versus 60–80 mph for many 3-tabs), and a longer service life—typically 25–35 years instead of 15–20. Their added weight also helps them lie flatter and resist Philadelphia’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
How long can I expect architectural shingles to last in Philadelphia’s climate?
In the Delaware Valley, properly installed architectural shingles routinely last 25–35 years. Factors that affect longevity include: • Weather exposure: Philly’s hot summers, cold winters, and occasional Nor’easters put added stress on roofing, but architectural shingles’ extra thickness helps them withstand temperature swings and wind-driven rain. • Ventilation: Adequate attic ventilation prevents heat and moisture buildup that can prematurely age shingles. • Installation quality: Using manufacturer-approved underlayments, starter strips, and fastener patterns is critical. A certified local contractor should follow Philadelphia L&I codes and the manufacturer’s guidelines. • Maintenance: Annual inspections, debris removal, and prompt repair of small issues (e.g., flashing or sealant failures) will maximize life expectancy.
Are architectural shingles suitable for the steep and low-slope roofs common on Philadelphia row homes?
Yes—architectural shingles perform well on most row-home roofs as long as the minimum slope is 2:12 (2 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). For slopes between 2:12 and 4:12, manufacturers require an additional fully-adhered ice-and-water barrier across the entire deck to prevent wind-driven rain infiltration. For slopes below 2:12, a modified bitumen or rubber membrane is recommended instead. Because architectural shingles weigh about 240–300 lb per roofing square, they do not overload typical 19th- and 20th-century Philadelphia roof structures.
What is the average cost to install architectural shingles in the Philadelphia area?
Prices vary with roof size, pitch, access, and wood-deck repairs, but most homeowners spend $5.50–$9.50 per square foot ($550–$950 per roofing square). For a 2,000 sq ft roof, that equals roughly $11,000–$19,000 including tear-off, underlayment, flashing, and disposal. Premium designer shingles can push costs higher, while simple gable roofs with no wood rot trend lower. An on-site inspection is the only way to receive an accurate, written estimate.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof with architectural shingles in Philadelphia?
Yes. The Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) requires a building permit—often issued as an EZ Roof Covering Permit—whenever you replace or recover an existing roof. Your licensed contractor should pull the permit, schedule inspections if needed, and provide you with the permit number. If structural repairs are involved (e.g., replacing rafters or decking), a standard building permit and additional documentation may be required.
Can architectural shingles improve my home’s energy efficiency or qualify for local rebates?
Many manufacturers offer "cool roof" versions of architectural shingles that are ENERGY STAR® or CRRC rated. Their specially engineered granules reflect more solar heat, lowering attic temperatures by up to 15 °F and reducing summer air-conditioning costs. PECO and other local utilities periodically offer rebates for ENERGY STAR-certified cool roofing products, and some Philadelphia mortgage and tax incentive programs recognize reflective shingles as an energy-saving upgrade. Ask your contractor to supply the product’s certification documents so you can file any available rebate paperwork.