Comparing Top Shingle Brands: Which is the Best Choice?
September , 2023 | 8 min. read
By Kevin Mills
Choices, choices. As a homeowner, selecting the ideal roofing shingles is a critical decision. GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are among the top players in the roofing industry, offering a wide range of products. Each brand has unique features, advantages, and disadvantages, just like any other.
Wouldn't it be amazing if the right shingle for you presented itself without having to do any research? Only in our dreams. However (and luckily), you have a comprehensive guide to show you everything you need to know about three of the top shingle brands. RoofCrafters has repaired and replaced asphalt shingle roofing systems for nearly three decades. After all these years, we've come to the conclusion that even though there are seemingly endless choices to browse, finding the perfect one can take you on quite the adventure.
In this article, we'll embark on a journey into the benefits and drawbacks of GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed shingles. By doing so, we'll assist you in making an informed choice that aligns with the preferences and needs you have for your beautiful home. Which shingle is the best choice? If you're ready to find out, let's start comparing!
GAF Shingles: Number One
GAF is a renowned roofing manufacturer known for its commitment to quality and innovation. If you're partial to excellence, this brand won't let you down. Let's explore the key aspects that define GAF shingles:
Quality and Durability
GAF shingles are recognized for their high quality and durability, providing excellent protection against various weather conditions. They are designed to withstand wind, rain, snow, and hail, ensuring long-lasting roofing protection. If you live in an area that experiences harsh weather, don't leave this one out of the running.
Style Variety
GAF offers a wide variety of shingle styles, including 3-tab, architectural, and designer. This variety allows homeowners to choose shingles that suit their aesthetic preferences and match their home's design. Modern home? They've got you covered. Traditional home? They also have you covered.
Energy Efficiency
GAF shingles are designed with energy efficiency in mind, offering options that can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This feature contributes to a cooler home and potential energy savings. Because this is a topic that's becoming increasingly popular as homeowners become more aware of the environment and money savings, we couldn't leave this part out. Choose a high-quality roof option = save money in the long run.
Cost-Effectiveness
While GAF shingles may be slightly more expensive than some competitors, their durability and longevity often justify the initial investment, making them cost-effective in the long run. Keep in mind that GAF offers fantastic warranties, making it an even more cost-effective option in the grand scheme of things.
Owens Corning Shingles: Number Two
Owens Corning is another leading manufacturer in the roofing industry, known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Let's delve into the key features of Owens Corning shingles:
Quality and Durability
Owens Corning shingles are applauded for their quality and durability, offering excellent protection against the elements. They are designed to resist wind, impact, and algae growth, ensuring a durable roofing solution. Note that the brands mentioned here are all quite comparable, so choosing one will ultimately come down to you.
Wide Range of Styles
Owens Corning provides a diverse range of shingle styles, catering to various design preferences. Homeowners can choose from traditional 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and designer shingles, allowing for customization based on their home's aesthetics. Like GAF, you have a number of choices depending on where you live.
Energy Efficiency
Owens Corning shingles are engineered with energy efficiency features, designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. This aids in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment and potential savings on energy bills. Everyone wants to save on bills, right? Yep!
Cost-Effectiveness
While Owens Corning shingles may be priced competitively, their durability, quality, and energy efficiency features make them a cost-effective choice for many homeowners. While not the cheapest shingle, there's still some wiggle room with this one as far as finances go.
CertainTeed Shingles: Number Three
CertainTeed is yet another reputable roofing manufacturer known for its focus on superior quality. Right up there with GAF, this is a trusted brand by roofers and homeowners alike. Let's uncover the defining features of CertainTeed shingles:
Quality and Durability
CertainTeed shingles are synonymous with quality and durability. They are crafted to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring a long-lasting roofing option for homeowners. If you live in the Southeast, we're sure you understand how important having a sturdy roof is. CertainTeed won't let you down in that department.
Won't Cramp Your Style
CertainTeed offers a broad spectrum of shingle styles, providing options for every architectural design. Homeowners can choose from 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury designer shingles, allowing for a perfect match with their home's style. Again, keep in mind that the options available to you are dependent on your zip code.
Energy Efficiency
CertainTeed shingles incorporate energy-efficient features, aiding in reducing energy consumption and potentially lowering energy bills. This is achieved through advanced design and reflective properties! If saving energy is a must for you, this option is one to consider.
Cost-Effectiveness
While CertainTeed shingles may fall within a similar price range as competitors, their durability and energy efficiency contribute to a cost-effective roofing choice over the long term. With fantastic warranties and a promise to outlast the elements, it's hard to go wrong with this manufacturer.
Comparing All Three
Now, let's conduct a side-by-side comparison of GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed shingles based on several crucial factors:
Quality and Durability
- All three brands excel in providing high-quality, durable shingles designed to withstand diverse weather conditions.
Variety of Styles
- GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed offer a wide range of styles to cater to different architectural designs and personal preferences.
Energy Efficiency
- Each brand incorporates energy-efficient features in its shingles, contributing to potential energy savings and a more comfortable indoor environment.
Cost
- While the initial costs may vary slightly, all three brands offer cost-effective roofing solutions considering the durability, quality, and energy efficiency their shingles provide in the long run.
Which Asphalt Shingle Manufacturer is Right for You?
What do you think? Selecting the best shingles for your roof involves weighing the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each brand. GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are all reputable manufacturers that provide durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing shingles. You should consider your preferences, budget, and specific roofing needs when making a decision. Ultimately, investing in high-quality shingles will enhance the protection and beauty of your home for years to come!
Did you learn something new today? Remember- your roof is nothing short of a long-term investment, and selecting the right shingles will ensure you have a sturdy roof over your head for years down the line. Don't rush, and know that there are roofers who will have your back during the process!
If you live in one of our service areas, help is right around the corner! When you're ready, visit our contact page to connect with one of our awesome RoofCrafters representatives. We're excited about the opportunity to take on your roofing project!
My name is Kevin Mills, and I am the lead estimator for RoofCrafters’ Tampa division. I’m originally from Michigan, and I enjoy hunting, fishing, and spending any free time outdoors. What I’m most passionate about, though, is helping business owners and homeowners alike achieve their roofing goals, all while providing a seamless customer journey.