Architectural (also known as dimensional, laminated or composite) shingles are constructed with a heavier base mat which multiple layers of material are adhered to. This gives the “dimensional” shingles a layered or three dimensional look.

Whereas the standard three tab shingle contains a flat layer with no dimensional “thickness” to it. Typically architectural shingles weight almost 50% more than the standard 3-tab shingles. Standard 3-tab shingles are rated for 60 mph winds while architectural shingles are rated for 80 mph up to 120 mph.