The Three Kinds You Will Be Offered

Type	What it is	Worth knowing
Three-tab	Flat, single-layer shingle with cut tabs	The lowest price, and the least common on new work now
Architectural	Two layers laminated for a thicker, shadowed look	The usual choice; heavier and better at holding on in wind
Impact-rated	Architectural shingle tested to take a hailstone strike	Look for a Class 4 rating under UL 2218; ask your insurer whether it changes anything on your policy

Install Details That Decide How Long It Lasts

Nail placement in the manufacturer’s nailing strip, and the right number per shingle for high-wind installs.
Starter strip along eaves and rakes, so the first row seals down.
Underlayment type, and ice-and-water membrane in valleys and around penetrations, where rain drives hardest here.
Ventilation. Shingles cook in an attic that cannot breathe, and summer attics here run past 120°F.

A manufacturer’s longer warranty usually depends on a certified installer and a full system of their parts. Ask which one applies.

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Call and a roofer who works in Tomball can walk you through what fits the house.