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GAF vs. Atlas: Head to Head

September , 2023 | 7 min. read

By Kevin Mills

gaf vs. atlas
When the time comes to start picking out new shingles, the excitement officially begins setting in! A new roof is no small feat, however, and there are a lot of choices you'll have to make as a homeowner. One of the first decisions on your plate will be which brand to go with. While there are several options, some may stick out to you more than others, depending on your preferences. 

When the time comes to start picking out new shingles, the excitement officially begins setting in! A new roof is no small feat, however, and there are a lot of choices you'll have to make as a homeowner. One of the first decisions on your plate will be which brand to go with. While there are several options, some may stick out to you more than others, depending on your preferences. 

RoofCrafters has replaced old, battered roofing systems with brand-spanking new ones for nearly thirty years. Being able to experience the benefits and drawbacks of each manufacturer brought us to one conclusion- your taste and needs as a homeowner will significantly influence which one you go with. While some have more of a budget in mind, others are set on a specific color scheme and style. Because of that, it's essential to dive deep into the choices available to you. 

In this guide, we'll compare the differences between GAF and Atlas, two brands that have similarities and unique differences that set them apart from one another. Which one will come out on top? Well, that's why we're here- to uncover the details many others won't. By the time you finish reading, you'll be a step closer to finding the roof you dream about when your head hits the pillow every night. Let's go!

Comparing GAF and Atlas Shingles 

 

GAF, standing for for "General Aniline & Film," stands out as a leading roofing manufacturer nationwide. Remarkably, one out of every four homes in the United States proudly features GAF shingles on their roofs! This company is renowned for producing shingles that are not only incredibly durable but also exceptionally strong and built to endure the test of time.

Stucco home with GAF Barkwood shingles

Alongside GAF, another contender in the roofing industry is Atlas Roofing. This company has garnered a decent reputation for its manufacturing prowess in both installation and asphalt roof shingles. Among its product lineup, the Pinnacle Pristine shingle, fortified with Scotchgard technology, stands as one of Atlas Roofing's best-selling offerings. How do you choose the right one for you? Let's discover that below. 

Weighing Out What Works for You

 

Before making a hasty decision to buy one type of shingle over the other, it's crucial to gather all the information you need. Both products offer various lines of materials, spanning from budget-friendly choices to more expensive options. When making your choice, it's essential to take your finances into account to ensure you choose the option that best suits both your home and budget!

  • GAF

If you're a homeowner seeking an attractive appearance without breaking the bank, GAF is there for you. The company offers a three-tab shingle that not only boasts affordability but also comes with a noteworthy warranty. In fact, most GAF products come with a limited lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind. These fiberglass shingles are asphalt-coated, ensuring durability that surpasses many other options on the market. You'll also discover a diverse array of colors to choose from when considering these shingles, though it's essential to browse them beforehand to make sure what you want is available. See the GAF color chart here. 

Seafoam color stucco with cultured stone and a GAF Timberline HDZ shakewood shingle roof

In addition to what they offer, GAF also produces the well-known laminated architectural shingles featured in their Timberline line of roofing materials. Similar to three-tab, Timberline shingles are available in a palette of colors, ensuring they can effortlessly harmonize with your home's exterior! What sets these shingles apart is their substantial thickness. Opting for thicker shingles can potentially boost your home's market value and offer enhanced protection against adverse weather conditions.

GAF timberline UHDZ in pewter gray on a split-level home

In the GAF product lineup, you'll find options that replicate the appearance of slate or wood shakes. In fact, GAF shingles are recognized as some of the most high-performing choices within the roofing industry. Notably, certain GAF products stand out for their exceptional wind and fire resistance, setting the bar for safety and durability in the market. You can hardly go wrong with GAF, which is why it's so highly regarded by roofers all over the board. 

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2Atlas
2. Atlas
Atlas
  • Atlas

Atlas Roofing also offers a three-tab shingle as part of its product lineup. They feature shingles that adeptly mimic the luxurious appearance of slate or the rustic charm of wood shakes. The three-tab shingles are crafted under the GlassMaster brand and come with a 30-year limited warranty. 

Atlas briarwood pro summer shingles

This range of colors helps match these shingles with your home's existing exterior, making them a good choice for aesthetics. However, we have to note that Atlas is not regarded as one of the top shingle brands. This may not be your choice if you're looking for genuine quality. 

When considering asphalt shingles from Atlas Roofing, the StormMaster variety stands out most for its resemblance to slate, albeit with a slightly higher cost. These shingles boast a Scotchgard coating, claiming to ward off staining and algae growth effectively.

atlas stormmaster shake shingles

In addition to their slate-like StormMaster shingles, Atlas Roofing offers two distinct types of shake-style shingles. Both of these products feature a lifetime limited warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind for homeowners. Just like the StormMaster, these shake-style shingles are also equipped with Scotchgard coating, further claiming to protect against staining and algae. Additionally, these shingles earn high marks for their fire resistance and incorporate an additive designed to bolster their resistance to damage, enhancing their overall durability.

When it comes to durability, GAF does come out on top, though. They have some of the best warranties in the industry and are trusted by roofers and homeowners all over the nation. Who you ultimately choose is a very personal choice, though, and should be discussed with a skilled roofing contractor!

Image call to action, read the homeowners guide to roof replacement

Ready for Your New Roof?      

 

We have a good feeling about it! GAF offers some of the finest roofing materials available today, featuring a diverse range of shingle products within their extensive lineup. Notably, GAF stands out with one of the industry's best warranties. However, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of choosing a GAF-certified Master Elite Contractor for the installation process. Opting for a certified professional ensures that your investment delivers exceptional value, providing both the longevity and quality of your roof for years to come!

Atlas Roofing also ranks among the leading shingle manufacturers in the United States. If you're seeking a budget-friendly choice for your home, these are a smart move. Keep in mind that this company offers a competitive warranty that holds its own when compared to some other brands, which is worth noting.

It all boils down to what you need and prefer as the owner of a beautiful home. But remember- not all roofers want the best for you- so it's essential to dive deeply into your options before jumping right into roof replacement. If you need more clarification about your potential decision, do your research and take as much time as you need! 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 RoofCrafters representatives. We're prepared to take on your roofing project!

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Kevin Mills

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.