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How Do 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles Hold Up In Wisconsin Weather?

Posted on January 15, 2025

3 tab asphalt shingles

Wisconsin is beautiful, known for its breathtaking landscapes and friendly communities. However, let’s face it, it’s also known for some pretty extreme weather. From snow-packed winters to summer hailstorms and the occasional tornado, the state’s climate puts every home to the test — especially the roof.

If you’re a homeowner in Wisconsin, there’s a good chance your roof has 3-tab asphalt shingles. They’re one of the most popular roofing materials in the country, well-liked for how affordable they are and how easy they are to install. 

Now, several other materials have been introduced to the market, so when the time comes for a replacement, the question becomes whether it’s better to choose 3-tab shingles or another material. 

As a popular roofing company with years of experience helping Wisconsin homeowners, we’ve seen it all. Let’s dive into whether 3-tab shingles hold up under our state’s unique weather challenges, and what you might want to consider as an alternative.

3-Tab Shingles: The Oldest And Most Trusted Material For Your Roof (But Are They?) 

3-Tab asphalt shingles are named for their design since each strip has three tabs, giving them a flat, uniform appearance. They’re lightweight, cost-effective, and relatively easy to install, which is why so many homeowners choose them for their roofs.

They’re also one of the most basic options on the market. While this simplicity works in mild climates, it’s not helpful in places where the weather is less forgiving — like Wisconsin.

Homeowners love the initial affordability of 3-tab shingles too, but the big question is whether this budget-friendly option holds up over time, especially in the face of Wisconsin’s intense weather patterns.

Challenges Your Roofing System Faces In Wisconsin 

Before we talk about the performance of 3-tab shingles, let’s take a moment to look at the weather conditions they’re up against:

Winter Snow and Ice: Wisconsin winters are notorious for heavy snow and freezing temperatures. Ice dams and snow buildup can weigh heavily on a roof, testing its durability.

Summer Hailstorms: Hail can strike hard and fast, causing dents, cracks, or punctures in roofing materials.

High Winds and Tornadoes: While tornadoes aren’t an everyday occurrence, Wisconsin’s high winds can easily peel shingles off a roof if they’re not secured in place.

Year-Round Temperature Swings: The freeze-thaw cycle, common in Wisconsin and across the country, causes materials to expand and contract, which wears down the roofing system over time.

A roofing material’s performance in these types of weather patterns is the difference between a roof that lasts and one that costs you money in repairs or replacements every few years.

Why Do 3-Tab Shingles Fail To Keep Up With The Weather? 

If you have 3-tab shingles installed on your roof, you might want to consider a change and upgrade to new shingles, especially if you live in a state like Wisconsin. 

Here’s why: 

Snow and Ice

Wisconsin is one of the snowiest states in America. 3-Tab shingles are lightweight, which while great for the roofing system, means they struggle to work effectively under the weight of snow and ice that’s accumulated on its surface. 

For instance, ice dams, a common issue during Wisconsin winters, forces water under the shingles, leading to leaks and water damage.

Hail Damage

Hail stones wreak havoc on 3-tab shingles since they have a single-layer design, making them lightweight and fragile. This thin composition lowers the shingle’s durability, making it vulnerable to cracking or punctures when hit. 

Also Read: What To Do When A Roof Is Damaged By Hail 

Wind Resistance

3-Tab shingles generally come with a wind resistance rating between 60 to 70 mph. On the surface, this may seem like enough, however, Wisconsin is notorious for its severe storms, where wind speeds frequently exceed these speeds. 

In these types of conditions, powerful gusts can easily pull shingles from the home, tearing them away from the roof and leaving them vulnerable to water infiltration and damage. This can lead to significant problems, including leaks and structural issues, making it crucial to choose roofing materials that can withstand the state’s unpredictable weather.

Lower Longevity 

While affordability is the biggest plus of 3-tab roofing shingles, its shorter lifespan can be  concerning. Even in ideal conditions, 3-tab shingles have a lifespan of about 15 to 25 years, which  may have been okay before, but it is less satisfactory by today’s standards.

And in Wisconsin’s harsh climate, that lifespan can be significantly reduced. Regular exposure to extreme weather causes wear and tear, meaning you might find yourself needing a replacement sooner than you’d expect.

Better Alternatives for Wisconsin Homes

If you’re looking for a roofing material that can stand up to Wisconsin’s weather, here are a few better options:

Architectural Shingles 

Architectural Shingles 
Architectural Shingles 

3-Tab shingles are slowly being phased out as architectural roof shingles become the preferred choice. These shingles are an mproved version of the traditional 3-tab variants. 

When comparing architectural shingles vs. 3-tab shingles on how they handle Wisconsin’s harsh weather, the difference is clear. Architectural shingles are thicker, heavier, and far more durable. This is because instead of a single layer, they use a dual-layer composition. 

They provide superior wind resistance of up to 110 mph or more, making them a reliable choice for areas prone to strong storms or even tornadoes. Architectural shingles also handle hail and snow better, thanks to their sturdier construction and greater ability to resist impacts.

While architectural shingles are more expensive, with a longer lifespan and improved durability they save homeowners money in the long run. 

Want to know more about architectural shingles? Read our guide on: 5 Best Architectural Shingles In 2025

Metal Roofs

Metal Roofs
Metal Roofs

If you do not want shingles for your roof, and are instead leaning towards metal, this is an even better option. Metal roofs are one of the longest-lasting roofing materials around and are perfect for roof replacements. 

Regardless of the metal you choose to use, whether it’s aluminum, copper, or something else, they are all incredibly durable, withstanding seasonal weather with ease and lasting longer than shingle options. They’re also low maintenance and need less attention.

Impact-Resistant Shingles

Impact-resistant or impact-rated shingles with a Class 4 rating, are specifically designed to handle hail and high winds. This rating ensures that they meet the highest standards for performance and durability. While they are more expensive than standard 3-tab shingles, they provide peace of mind in Wisconsin’s severe weather conditions.

Why Does Choosing the Right Roofing Material Matter?

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Choosing a roofing material that can handle Wisconsin’s weather not only protects your home, it also saves you money later on.

While 3-tab shingles might seem like an affordable choice, their performance in harsh climates leaves much to be desired. Investing in a more durable material can spare you the frustration of frequent repairs and replacements, not to mention the stress of dealing with leaks or storm damage.

We Can Help You With Your Roof Replacement! 

At Prestige Roofing LLC, we’ve helped countless Wisconsin homeowners find the right roofing solutions for their needs. We understand the unique challenges our state’s weather creates, and we’re here to make sure your roof can handle it all.

Whether you’re considering a roof replacement, or just want an expert opinion, we’re here to help. We offer:

  • Free roof inspections
  • Expert recommendations tailored to your home
  • High-quality roofing materials that stand up to Wisconsin’s toughest weather

Your home deserves a roof that won’t let you down when the next storm rolls in, and we’re here to make sure you get exactly that. To get started, contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to speak to one of our experts.