GAF vs. IKO: The Ultimate Guide

Taking a moment to figure out which shingle brand is right for you? We understand- and haven't we all been there? There are so many options to choose from, seemingly with anything. When shingles are involved, there's a lot to go over. GAF and IKO each have their own benefits and drawbacks, like any other brands. 

Luckily, RoofCrafters has repaired and replaced shingle roofing systems for nearly thirty years. Did you know we're also a GAF master elite contractor? After all this time, we've definitely learned the ropes when it comes to top shingle brands, and we're ready to share them with you. 

This article is a comprehensive guide that goes in-depth in comparing GAF and IKO. From listing their best qualities to what shingle types and warranties they offer, we've covered everything you need to know right here. By the time you finish reading, you'll *hopefully* you feel more confident in which brand best suits you and your home. We're ready to begin if you are! 

What's the Deal with GAF? 

GAF is a well-known manufacturing company founded in the late 1800's. With the slogan "We protect what matters most," they're the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in the US. 

Knowing the history behind manufacturers is essential as a roofer because we can't give you amazing service with products that aren't up to par with our standards. GAF is one of two manufacturers that stand out among the rest because of the quality they represent. We only want the best for you and your home, and RoofCrafters believes in GAF. 

Now that we have that covered, it's time to put your thinking cap on- we're discussing shingle types! GAF offers four shingle types. During COVID, GAF discontinued their upgraded architectural shingles, but they're back now! They offer: 

• Solar Shingles (Timberline Solar)
• Three-tab Shingles (Royal Sovereign)
• Architectural Shingles (Timberline HDZ)
• Upgraded Architectural Shingles (Timberline UHDZ)
• Designer Shingles (Slateline and Camelot ll)

GAF offers impact-resistant shingles, as well as a "cool series" shingle, which reflects the sun and is more energy-efficient. 

IKO- Does it Compare? 

IKO is another competitor that manufactures shingles. Like GAF offers "master elite" contractor certifications, IKO offers their own, which is called "ROOFPRO." In the roofing world, every contractor eventually finds a specific brand that they favor, similar to how you may prefer a certain clothing item or pair of shoes as your favorite. 

To be completely honest, however, IKO is not a top performer in the arena of shingle production. Many roofers consider them to be bottom of the barrel. This isn't necessarily meant to keep you away from them- more so to warn you that not every brand is made equally and serves the same standard of excellence. 

IKO offers four different types of shingle products, including: 

• Performance Shingles (Dynasty and Nordic)
• Architectural Shingles (Cambridge or Cambridge Cool Colors Plus) 
• Designer Shingles (Armourshake, Crowne Slate, Royal Estate) 
• Traditional Three-tab Shingles (Marathon Plus AR)

On IKO's website, one of their standout quotes is, "Shelter against the storms of life is one of the most important and basic human needs." Do they live up to their claims, though? 

Weighing in on Warranties 

Warranties are a little complicated, but we've broken them down below to help mitigate the confusion! Remember- you'll get these warranties through a factory-certified contractor. There's a huge difference in the warranty coverages, but that's standard when you're looking at shingle brands! Just for the sake of being simple, we've listed each warranty under GAF and IKO that you can receive when having their shingles installed. 

Wind Warranties 

Three-tab Shingles:

1. GAF’s Royal Sovereign 3-tabs come with a 60 MPH wind warranty for 15 years. 

2. IKO's Marathon Plus AR shingles come with a 60 MPH wind warranty for 15 years. 

Architectural Shingles:

1. GAF’s Timberline HDZ shingle comes with a 110 MPH warranty without special installation instructions. 

2. IKO's Cambridge, Cambridge Cool Color, Nordic, and Dynasty shingles come with a 110-130 MPH warranty. 

Upgraded Architectural Shingles:

1. GAF's Timberline UHDZ comes with a limited warranty for 15 years. 

Designer Shingles:

1. GAF's comes with a 110 MPH warranty for 15 years. This can be upgraded to 130 MPH following their installation instructions. 

2. IKO's Armourshake, Crowne Slate, and Royal Estate come with a 110-130 MPH warranty for up to 15 years. 

Algae Warranties

Three-tab Shingles:

1. GAF’s Royal Sovereign 3-tabs come with a 25-year warranty with 5-Star Protection.

2. Most IKO shingles carry a limited warranty against discoloration caused by algae for up to 120 months. For limitations, see here. 

Architectural Shingles:

1. GAF’s Timberline HDZ shingle comes with a 25-year StainGuard Plus warranty.

2. Most IKO shingles carry a limited warranty against discoloration caused by algae for up to 120 months.

Upgraded Architectural Shingles:

1. GAF's Timberline UHDZ comes with a 30-year StainGuard Plus Pro warranty.

Designer Shingles:

1. GAF’s designer shingles come with a 25-year StainGuard Plus warranty.

2. Most IKO shingles carry a limited warranty against discoloration caused by algae for up to 120 months.

Shingle Material Warranties

Three-tab Shingles:

1. GAF’s Royal Sovereign 3-tabs come with a 25-year warranty with 5-Star Protection.

2. IKO's Marathon Plus AR comes with "Iron Clad Protection" for 60 months. 

Architectural Shingles: 

1. GAF’s Timberline HDZ shingles come with a lifetime warranty with the Golden Pledge warranty (50 years non-prorated for single-family residential properties.)

2. IKO'S Cambridge, Cambridge Cool Colors, Nordic and Dynasty come with "Iron Clad Protection" for 180 months. 

Upgraded Architectural Shingles:

1. GAF's Timberline UHDZ comes with a lifetime material warranty with 50 years of being non-prorated for residential properties. They also offer a 30-year workmanship warranty.

Designer Shingles:

1. GAF’s designer shingles come with a lifetime material warranty with the Golden Pledge Warranty.

2. IKO's Armourshake, Crowne Slate, and Royal Estate shingles come with "Iron Clad Protection" for 180 months. 

Which Shingle Brand is the Best Choice?

That depends completely on the wants and needs of you and your home! What colors do you like? What's your style? What's your budget? The roof selection process is very individual, but at the end of the day, know that GAF is a top competitor that roofers believe in. In order to narrow down which option in best for you, getting in contact with a local, professional roofing contractor is a must. They'll help you navigate through any questions and concerns you have.

But wait, have you checked out our learning center?  It's full of priceless information you should know when it comes to roof replacements and how to approach them in a way that takes stress away instead of piling it on. There's a little something for every reader, so it's a must if you want to fill your brain with helpful information and fun facts. Research is always recommended when making huge decisions like this, and we can help you!

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your existing roof or the idea of a new one, RoofCrafters is more than delighted to assist you. To get in touch with one of our friendly representatives, head on over to our contact page.