IKO vs. Owens Corning: Which Comes Out on Top?

When upgrading your roof or building a new home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right shingles. They not only protect your home from the elements but also contribute to its overall appearance. There are numerous prominent names in the roofing world, but IKO and Owens Corning are more well-known than some others. 

While we know picking shingles can lean more towards the side of difficult, we're here to make things easier for you. RoofCrafters has repaired and replaced asphalt shingle roofing systems for nearly three decades. After all these years, we've come to know that even though there are seemingly endless choices to consider, finding the perfect one is one of the most satisfying things you can do as a homeowner. 

In this in-depth comparison, we'll closely examine both to help you make an informed choice. We'll explore the qualities, benefits, and potential drawbacks of IKO and Owens Corning shingles. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to make the best decision for your home's roof. Let's dive into the journey of discovering the perfect roofing option for you!

Comparing IKO and Owens Corning Shingles: Side by Side 

IKO is a well-established name in the roofing industry, known for its affordability. This shingle is often referred to as "builder grade." On the other hand, Owens Corning is another major player in the roofing industry, known for its dedication to quality and innovation. Let's analyze the differences between these two brands: 

Quality and Durability

IKO shingles are recognized for their price point and decent quality. They are designed to help withstand wind, rain, and snow without digging too deeply into your pockets. Their Cambridge line is the most popular and what they're mainly known for!

Owens Corning shingles are applauded for their quality and durability, offering excellent protection against the elements. They're designed to resist wind, impact, and algae growth, ensuring a durable roofing solution.

Variety of Styles

IKO offers a variety of shingle styles, including traditional 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and designer shingles. This variety allows homeowners to choose shingles that suit their aesthetic preferences and match their home's design.

Owens Corning also 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.

Cost-Effectiveness

IKO shingles are competitively priced, providing a cost-effective roofing solution without compromising completely on quality. However, remember that these shingles' durability isn't the best. If you live in an area that regularly experiences harsh weather, ensure you do the proper research before picking this one. 

While Owens Corning shingles may be priced slightly higher than some competitors, their durability, quality, and energy efficiency make them a cost-effective choice for many homeowners.

Energy Efficiency

IKO shingles are designed to be energy-efficient, offering options that can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This feature contributes to a cooler home and potential energy savings.

Owens Corning shingles are also 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!

Summarizing the Differences

Now, let's compare IKO and Owens Corning shingles with a quick side-by-side comparison based on a few crucial factors. This will help put your decision into perspective. 

Quality and Durability

• IKO is more of a builder-grade quality shingle, meaning it won't blow you out of the water. Owens Corning, however, is a more trusted name in roofing that's held to a higher standard. 

Variety of Styles

• Both brands offer a wide range of shingle styles, giving homeowners the flexibility to choose based on their design preferences.
  
  

Cost-Effectiveness

• While the initial costs may vary slightly, both brands offer cost-effective roofing solutions. Considering the durability, quality, and energy efficiency their shingles provide in the long run, Owens Corning comes out on top in this category, as well. 

Energy Efficiency

• Both IKO and Owens Corning shingles are designed with energy-efficient features, contributing to potential energy savings and a more comfortable indoor environment.
  
  

Which Asphalt Shingle Manufacturer is Right for You?      

Now that we've compared the two, which brand speaks to you more? Selecting the best shingles for your roof involves considering factors such as quality, style, energy efficiency, and cost. Both IKO and Owens Corning are reputable manufacturers that provide durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing shingles. 

Always evaluate your specific preferences, budget, and roofing needs when making a final decision. Ultimately, investing in high-quality shingles will enhance the protection and beauty of your home for years to come! 

We hope you learned a ton 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 that 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 friendly RoofCrafters representatives. We're thrilled about the opportunity to take on your roofing project!