Architectural refers to overlapped tabs that give depth, dimension, and texture to the roof (contrast this to the older three-tab style shingles that have a staggered, flat, brick pattern). It is currently the most common style of residential roofing, these roofs are everywhere. Architectural shingles come in sturdier thicknesses and construction than 3-tab shingles, and come with 30, 40, and even 50 year manufacturer’s warranties. Laminated shingles are composite layers of fiberglass mat for strength, with asphalt for waterproofing. Sand or synthetic granules are stuck to the top surface. These granules protect the asphalt from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light, and are colored to give the shingles their appearance.