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There are so many shingle brands out here. It can be an overwhelming task to understand the differences.
Between the shingles, the warranties, and all the benefits available from the different brands.
What separates them?
Who&#;s warranty is better?
Which one makes the best shingle? And, why?
We get it. And if you&#;re like the rest of our clients, you realize this is one of the largest and most important investments you'll make. And by choosing the right shingle brand you could extend your roof's life by several years.
We've helped thousands of homeowners over the past 3 decades. Our family at RoofCrafters has done so by learning what's in the fine print of the shingle warranties. Then by helping educate our clients on the differences, they're able to choose the right brand of shingles for their home. Now we want to do the same for you.
Whether you're looking for a shingle that provides the greatest protection from storms. One that'll add curb appeal to enhance the look of your home. We want to help you make a well-informed decision.
Here's the thing, in this article, we're going to honestly and transparently answer the question...
&#;What brand of shingle should I use for my roof?&#;
With so many good shingle brands available, we'll cover the following:
Hopefully, by the end of this article, we've guided you in the right direction for selecting the best shingle brand for your home.
Let&#;s dive right in!
Top Shingle Brands for Enhanced Roof Longevity
There are several other brands for you to consider. But, we've found that the pros and cons of the 3 we're featuring outperform the other shingle brands.
GAF
CertainTeed
Owens Corning
To make your decision less confusing, we've decided to just leave the other manufacturers off our list.
1. GAF Shingles: Reliability and Variety for Your Roof
GAF is an American manufacturing company founded in . GAF is an acronym for General Aniline and Film. They are the leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing in North America. They have more than 2 dozen manufacturing plants here in the US. They have over 3,000 employees and sell over 3 billion dollars worth of roofing materials worldwide.
Why is this important to you and to us as a factory-certified roofing contractor?
We need to believe in the roofing manufacturer that offers consumers lifetime warranties. We must believe in their stability. Their commitment to providing excellent roofing products and continued warranty service. For us as the contractors that install their shingles and for you as the consumer who lives under their product.
Let&#;s say we offer a product from a manufacturer and then later on that manufacturer doesn't honor their warranty. It'll make us look bad as the contractor who offered you the shingles and we'll lose your trust.
Our business is built on trust. You trust us as your contractor. We expect that you trust that we've done the research and we're only using products and brands that we believe in. Brands that we trust to use in our own homes.
If one of their products should fail before the stated warranty period. If we have an issue and we need their help, we trust that they'll be here for us and honor their warranty.
Trust is important for us. We take it very seriously and hope you do as well.
GAF has 3 different levels for consumers. Below are the levels and the warranty coverage GAF offers for each level:
1. You can buy GAF&#;s products yourself from a roofing supply house or a local hardware store. (Home Depot) You can install the materials or you can have someone install them for you and receive a GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty.
10-year non-prorated warranty for any manufacturer defects. And prorated for the rest of the shingle lifespan. (This can be extended to 50 years non-prorated if you use 3 GAF accessories with the shingles)
No workmanship or roof leak warranty is included.
Example of a lifetime shingle: For the first 10 years, GAF will cover any defects in the materials. This is for the materials and the labor to re-install them, this does NOT include tear-off, disposal, or any accessories.
2. You can hire a GAF factory-certified contractor. GAF factory-certified contractor program is how they bring in newer roofing contractors. These contractors have been recognized in the community for doing good work. The program is designed to hold these contractors more accountable. A GAF factory-certified contractor can offer a GAF System Plus Warranty. Below is the warranty coverage:
10 years non-prorated warranty for any manufacturer defects for the materials. GAF covers any labor for the first 10 years, so no out-of-pocket cost to you, if there is an issue with the materials in the first 10 years, you are covered.
10 years non-prorated warranty for any manufacturer defects. And prorated for the rest of the shingle lifespan.(This can be extended to 50 years non-prorated if you use 3 GAF accessories with the shingles)
50-year non-prorated warranty for any manufacturer defects. 100% coverage for material defects And prorated for the rest of the shingle lifespan.
No workmanship or roof leak warranty is included. (So, if there is not a material issue and the problem is an installation error, you will be responsible for the cost of the leak repair)
On a lifetime shingle, your materials will also be non-prorated for 50 years, instead of only 10 years. As long as the GAF-certified contractor uses 3 GAF accessories. Such as GAF&#;s underlayment, ice, and water shield, and ventilation products to qualify for this warranty. Those products are also included in the System Plus Warranty as well.
3. You can hire a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor. To become a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor, the roofer has to be a GAF factory-certified contractor for at least 3 years without any issues. GAF Master Elite contractors are required to meet GAF&#;s yearly training and installation requirements.
Because of the warranties, they can offer as the installer, only 2 out of every 100 roofing contractors in America reach GAF Master Elite status. That&#;s only 2% of all the roofing companies in the United States.
The warranties Master Elite contractors can provide put a lot of liability on GAF. As you'll see below because of that liability they require more from their Master Elite contractors. Many contractors don&#;t meet GAF&#;s Master Elite standards. Here's the coverage:
50-year non-prorated warranty for any manufacturer defects for all GAF lifetime materials. GAF covers all labor costs too, so no out-of-pocket cost to you, if there is an issue with the materials in the first 50 years, you are covered.
25-year workmanship warranty for
the Golden Pledge Warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty for
the Silver Pledge Warranty (This is a NO leak warranty.) So even if your roofer makes an installation error, GAF will cover the roof leak repair or replacement under either of these warranties.
On a lifetime shingle, your materials will also be non-prorated for 50 years, instead of only 10 years. The Silver Pledge Warranty requires the GAF Master Elite roofer to use 4 GAF accessories with the shingles you selected. The Golden Pledge Warranty requires 5 GAF accessories. Along with the shingle of your choice. Accessories included are Deck-Armor synthetic underlayment, ProStart starter shingles, StormGuard ice, and water shield, Cobra ridge vents, Timbertex hip, and ridge cap shingles.
As you can see, each purchase and installation level has separate coverage periods and benefits available for you.
As the warranty coverage increases, GAF&#;s liability increases too. But, your roof investment is protected much longer as the level of contractor you choose to hire and the level of warranty you choose increases.
2. CertainTeed: A Century of Roofing Excellence
CertainTeed was founded in as, General Roofing Manufacturing Company. Today, CertainTeed is North America&#;s leading brand of exterior and interior building products. Including roofing, siding, fence, decking, railing, trim, insulation, gypsum, and ceilings.
CertainTeed has helped shape the building products industry for more than 110 years. Through the responsible development of innovative and sustainable building products. CertainTeed has more than 6,300 employees. They have more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada.
Their name was derived and changed in from their slogan.
"Quality made certain, Satisfaction Guaranteed"
CertainTeed also has 3 different levels for consumers. Below are the 3 levels and the warranty coverage offered by CertainTeed for each of the 3 levels.
1. You can also buy CertainTeed&#;s products yourself from either a roofing supply house or a local hardware store. You can install the materials yourself or you can have a roofer install them for you and you will still receive their limited lifetime warranty.
A limited lifetime warranty is a 10-year non-prorated warranty. It covers any manufacturer defects and then the warranty is prorated for the remainder of the shingle lifespan.
No workmanship or if the roof leaks due to faulty workmanship CertainTeed does not cover the cost of repairs.
Example of a lifetime shingle: For the first 10 years CertainTeed will cover any defects in the materials. This is for the materials and the labor to re-install them. Including roof tear-off, metal work, flashing, and disposal expenses. On a lifetime shingle, if you get 25 years and have a warranty claim, CertainTeed will owe you 25 years of materials. (50 years warranty period) Again, this will be a small fraction of the cost of your roof replacement or repair. Why? Because no labor cost or accessories will be included. That cost will fall on you.
2. You can hire a CertainTeed Shingle Master. Like the GAF factory-certified contractor program. A CertainTeed Shingle Master has been vetted by CertainTeed. Contractors are required to meet training and certain testing requirements. This is to stay eligible to provide you CertainTeed&#;s 3-star and 4-star SureStart Plus warranties.
CertainTeed's 3-star & 4-star warranties are 50-year non-prorated warranties. Warrant against any manufacturer defects on the materials. If the material has a defect CertainTeed will pay for the materials and labor to tear off for the 3-star warranty. They will pay for that and include the disposal if you purchase the 4-star warranty. ShingleMaster contractors are required to follow Certainteed&#;s written specifications. They must follow guidelines for the installation of shingles and accessories.
No workmanship or roof leak warranty is included with either warranty. Any installation errors that result in roof leaks you will be responsible for that cost.
Example of a lifetime shingle: For the first 50 years CertainTeed will cover any defects in the materials. This is for the materials and the labor to re-install them. Roof tear-off, metal work, flashing, and disposal will be included in the 4-star warranty. No disposal fee is included in the 3-star warranty. Now on a lifetime shingle, if you get 25 years and have a warranty claim, CertainTeed will owe you 25 years of materials and labor. (50 years warranty.) Labor and all the accessories are included. Accessories such as Diamond Deck synthetic underlayment, Winterguard ice & water shield, and Swift Start starters shingles. The metal drip edge flashing, roof-to-wall flashings, pipe vent collars, and ridge vents are included too.
3. You can hire a CertainTeed Select Shingle Master. This is CertainTeed's highest certification. A Select Shingle Master has been vetted by CertainTeed. To be eligible contractors have to be in business for 5 years and have been a Shingle Master for at least 1 of those 5 years. They also need crews and supervisors to meet training and certain testing requirements. This is required to stay eligible to provide the CertainTeed 5-Star warranty.
CertainTeed's 5-Star warranty is 50 years of non-prorated warranty. Warrant against any manufacturer defects on the materials. If the material has a defect CertainTeed will pay for all the materials and the labor to tear it off. If repair or replacement of the materials is ever needed. Select Shingle Master contractors must follow Certainteed&#;s guidelines.
25-year workmanship or a NO roof leak warranty is included with a 5-star warranty. For any installation errors that result in roof leaks, Certainteed will be responsible for that cost.
Example of a lifetime shingle: For the first 50 years CertainTeed will cover any defects in the materials. This is for the materials and the labor to re-install them. Including roof tear-off, metal work, flashing, and disposal. On a lifetime shingle, if you get 25 years and have a warranty claim, CertainTeed will owe you 25 years of materials and labor. (50 years warranty period.) Labor is included and all the accessories are included. Such as Diamond Deck synthetic underlayment, WinterGuard ice, and water shield, SwiftStart starter shingles, and metal drip edge flashing. Roof-to-wall flashings, pipe vent collars, and ridge vents will be included in the warranty claim too.
Like the GAF warranties, each installation level has coverage periods and benefits available to you. CertainTeed&#;s liability increases as the warranty coverage increases. This means your roof investment will have more protection.
Now that you understand more about GAF and CertainTeed. Let's review Owens Corning&#;s levels of protection.
3. Owens Corning: Innovative Roofing Solutions
Owens Corning Fiberglass Company was formed in through the merger of Owens-Illinois and Corning Glass Works. Owens Corning is an American company that produces roofing, insulation, and composites.
In the company reported over 2 billion in sales and currently, they employ over 19,000 people around the world.
Like GAF and CertainTeed, Owens Corning has 3 different levels for their consumers too. Below we will break down the levels and the warranties Owens Corning offers for each of their levels:
1. You can buy Owens Corning roofing shingles yourself from either a local roofing supply company or a local hardware store. You either install the materials yourself. Or you have a roofing contractor install them for you and you will receive their standard product limited warranty.
A Standard Product Limited warranty is a 10-year non-prorated warranty. This covers any manufacturer defects and then the warranty is prorated at 80% and 2% less for each year for the remainder of the shingle lifespan. Owens Corning does not pay for the tear-off or disposal of defective shingles. but, they will pay for the accessories if they are an Owens Corning product. *Their warranty is also void by installation errors
No workmanship or if the roof leaks due to faulty workmanship Owens Corning is not liable under this warranty to cover the cost for repairs.
For example for a lifetime shingle, for the first 10 years, Owens Corning will cover any defects in the materials. If there are no installation errors. This is for the materials and the labor to re-install them. This excludes roof tear-off, and disposal expenses incurred during the repair or replacement. Now on a lifetime shingle, if you get 20 years and have a warranty claim, Owens Corning will owe you approximately 60% of the 30 years of materials. (50 years warranty period) Again, this will be a small fraction of your roof replacement or repair cost. Because no labor will be included. Also, none of the accessories needed will be included. Accessories such as ProAmor synthetic underlayment, WeatherLock ice, and water shield, and Start Strip Plus starter shingles. The metal eave drip, roof-to-wall flashings, pipe collars, and VentSure ridge vent won't be included in the warranty either. The cost of labor and those accessories needed to make the repairs will fall on you.
2. You can hire an Owens Corning Roofing Preferred Contractor. Much like the GAF factory-certified contractor program, and the CertainTeed Shingle Master. An Owens Corning Roofing Preferred contractor has been vetted by Owens Corning. All contractors have been screened for financial stability. They provide customer service and also carry general liability insurance. Owens Corning Roofing preferred contractors can offer the System Protection Limited Warranty and the Preferred Protection Limited Warranty.
Owens Corning&#;s Systems Protection Limited warranty. This warranty covers 50 years of non-prorated warranty against any manufacturer defects. This is for the materials and all roofing components. And if the material has a defect Owens Corning will pay for the materials and labor to tear off and the disposal fees. But their warranty is voided by installation errors.
No workmanship or roof leak warranty is included with the System Protection Limited Warranty. If any installation errors result in roof leaks, you will be responsible for all roof leak repair costs.
The System Protection Limited Warranty requires the contractor to use three Owens Corning components. Components such as Owens Corning Pro Armor synthetic underlayment, WeatherLock ice, and water shield, Starter Strip Plus shingle, and VentSure ridge vents. 4 components are needed for the warranty to be registered and valid.
The Preferred Protection Limited Warranty is the same but it includes a 10-year workmanship warranty. So any leaks that happen due to installation errors, you would be covered. The Preferred Protection Limited Warranty requires the contractor to install 4 components.
3. You can hire an Owens Corning Roofing Platinum Contractor. An Owens Corning Roofing Platinum contractor has been vetted by Owens Corning and all their Platinum Roofing Contractors have been screened for financial stability. They carry general liability insurance and passed an installation workmanship inspection. Owens Corning Roofing Platinum Contractors are the only contractors who can offer the Platinum Protection Limited Warranty.
Owens Corning Platinum Protection Limited warranty covers 50 years of non-prorated warranty. This is against any manufacturer defects on materials and roof components. And if the material has a defect Owens Corning will pay for the materials and labor to tear off and the disposal fees. Their warranty is also voided by installation errors.
25-year workmanship or no roof leak warranty is included with the Platinum Protection Limited Warranty.
This warranty requires that your contractor use 4 Owens Corning components. These include Owens Corning ProAmor synthetic underlayment, WeatherLock ice, and water shield, Starter Strip Plus shingle, and VentSure ridge vents. The components are needed for the warranty to be registered and valid.
As you can see, the 3 brands have small differences in their warranties. They all have enhanced warranty programs available to you. Programs to promote and hold contractors accountable. These programs were designed for your protection.
Now that you see each of their different levels of protection let&#;s talk about their different types of shingles.
Comparing Different Types of Shingles Available
The most economical roof materials installed on homes are asphalt shingles. They're 4 different shingle types for you to choose from. Depending on the particular style you prefer, the duration of the warranty, and the cost or budget you have set aside.
The 4 different styles of shingles are:
3-Tab shingles
Architectural shingles
Upgraded architectural shingles
Designer shingles
In this section, we will review each of the brand's 4 styles of shingles. We will go over the features and benefits of each shingle type and point out their differences.
Are you interested in learning more about stone coated metal roofing tiles? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Budget-Friendly 3-Tab Shingles: An Overview
These shingles are the most economical shingles on the market. 3-tab shingles are often referred to as &#;builder grade&#; shingles. They are typically installed on new construction homes and some investment properties. Good choice, if you have an extremely tight budget.
Aesthetics: 3-tab shingles lay flat and have 3 cutouts in a strip that create a 3-tab look. They will provide your home with a slate shingle look.
Lifespan: Typically lasts 12-15 years
Protection: With only a 60 mph wind warranty. Because 3-tabs are the lightest of the shingles. They provide the least wind protection, during a major wind event the 3-tabs shingles are at a greater risk of blowing off the roof.
GAF 3-Tab Shingle is the Royal Sovereign
View GAF Royal Sovereign shingles & colors here.
CertainTeed XT-25 3-Tab Shingle
View CertainTeed XT-25 3-tab shingles & colors here.
Owens Corning Supreme 3-Tab shingles
25-year limited warranty, first 5 years non prorated
10-year StreakGuard algae-resistant warranty, prorated after 1 year
60 mph wind warranty
View Owens Corning Supreme 3-tab shingles & colors here.
Architectural Shingles: Durability Meets Style
Architectural shingles are the most popular shingles. They are heavier than the 3-tab shingles and will provide you with a much higher wind rating than the much lighter 3-tab shingles
Architectural shingles are sometimes referred to as laminated shingles. During production, the manufacturer laminates shingle parts together. This laminated part creates depth or provides dimension, fun fact, this shingle was designed to look like real wood shingles.
Architectural shingles are also referred to as dimensional shingles. During production, the manufacturer laminates shingle parts together. This laminated part creates depth or provides dimension, fun fact, this shingle was designed to look like real wood shingles.
Aesthetics: These shingles provide a 3-D dimensional look that'll provide your home some extra curb appeal.
Lifespan: Most architectural roofs last 17 to 22 years and up to 25 years with proper roof ventilation.
Protection: With the correct installation method GAF&#;s HDZ shingle provides 15 years of unlimited wind speed coverage. CertainTeed and Owens Corning provide a 110 mph wind warranty. They offer a 130 mph warranty when following their special high wind installation instructions.
GAF Architectural Shingle is the Timberline HDZ Shingle
Lifetime warranty 10 years non-prorated. 50 years non-prorated if you use 3 GAF accessories or choose to use a GAF factory-certified or Master Elite contractor.
25-year StainGuard Plus algae protection warranty.
Infinite wind warranty for first 15 years using 4 GAF accessories.
View GAF's HDZ shingles and colors here.
CertainTeed Architectural Shingles are the Landmark
Lifetime warranty(10-year non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Shingle Master or a Select Shingle Master.
10-year StreakFighter warranty against streaking and discoloration caused by blue-green algae.
15-year, 110 mph wind-resistance warranty. A wind warranty upgrade to 130 mph is available for Landmark. By using specified CertainTeed starter shingles and CertainTeed hip and ridge shingles.
View CertainTeed's Landmark shingles and colors here.
Owens Corning Architectural Shingles are the Oakridge
Lifetime warranty(10 years non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Preferred or Platinum-approved contractor.
10-year StreakGuard algae-resistant warranty, prorated after 1 year.
15-year 110 mph wind warranty. The warranty can be upgraded to 130 mph. Special installation methods and an Owens Corning starter and hip and ridge are needed.
View Owens Corning Oakridge shingles and colors here.
Upgraded Architectural Shingles: Luxury Style
Upgraded architectural shingles provide the same economic ease as the other shingles.
The major difference is the curb appeal. Side by side with its little brother the regular architectural shingle there is no comparison. The upgraded shingle is much heavier in weight. This makes it a thicker shingle giving your roof much more definition, creating pop and a greater curb appeal.
The lifetime warranties for the upgraded architectural shingles are the same.
CertainTeed increases the algae-resistant warranty to 15 years instead of 10. Which will allow the shingles to look better for longer.
Aesthetics: The thickness of these shingles creates a very noticeable visual difference. Along with the placement of colored granules from each of their regular architectural shingles. This provides extra pop and an added 3-D dimension.
Lifespan: Created by putting more asphalt in the shingle, better sealant, and a wider area for nail placement. These shingles will typically last 25 to 30 years.
Protection: The heavier a product the less likely it is to blow off in a major wind storm. These shingles can weigh as much as 100 lb per square foot more than regular architectural shingles.
GAF&#;s Upgraded Architectural Shingles are Timberline Ultra HDZ
A lifetime warranty is 10 years non-prorated. 50 years non-prorated if you use 3 GAF accessories or choose to use a GAF factory-certified or Master Elite contractor.
25-year StainGuard Plus algae protection warranty.
Infinite wind warranty for first 15 years using 4 GAF accessories, then 130 mph for the rest of the warranty period.
View GAF's UHDZ Timberline shingles and colors here.
CertainTeed&#;s Upgraded Shingles are the Landmark Pro
Lifetime warranty(10 years non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Shingle Master or a Select Shingle Master.
10-year StreakFighter warranty against streaking and discoloration caused by blue-green algae.
15-year, 110 mph wind-resistance warranty. A wind warranty upgrade to 130 mph is available for Landmark. Specified CertainTeed starter shingles and CertainTeed hip and ridge shingles are needed.
View CertainTeed's Landmark Pro shingles and colors here.
Owens Corning&#;s Upgraded Shingles are the Duration Designer
Lifetime warranty(10 years non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Preferred or Platinum-approved contractor.
10-year StreakGuard algae-resistant warranty, prorated after 1 year.
15-year 110 mph wind warranty. The wind warranty can be upgraded to 130 mph. Owens Corning starter and hip and ridge accessories along with a special installation method are needed.
View Owens Corning Duration shingles and colors here.
Designer Shingles: The Premium Choice for Aesthetic Appeal
Designer asphalt shingles are also sometimes referred to as luxury shingles. Designer or luxury shingles are specially designed to simulate real products, such as real slate or real wood shingles.
They're by far the heaviest in the asphalt shingle family. Certainteed has historically led the industry in designer and luxury shingles
Designer shingles will add tremendous aesthetic value. They create amazing curb appeal with their unique designs. This may be the right shingle for you if you want your home to stand out from the rest.
Aesthetics: These shingles are specifically manufactured to provide the greatest curb appeal.
Lifespan: You can expect these shingles to last 30 to 40 years.
Protection: Being the heaviest of the shingle family. With the proper installation methods, they provide unmatched wind and protection from storms.
GAF has 3 Styles of Designer Shingles
The lifetime warranty is 10 years non-prorated. 50 years non-prorated if you use 3 GAF accessories or choose to use a GAF factory-certified or Master Elite contractor.
25-year StainGuard Plus algae protection warranty.
Infinite wind warranty for the first 15 years using 4 GAF accessories Then 130 mph for the rest of the warranty.
Camelot II - View shingle & colors here
Slateline - View shingle & colors here
Woodland - View shingle & colors here
CertainTeed has 6 Styles of Designer Shingles
Lifetime warranty(10 years non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Shingle Master or a Select Shingle Master.
10-year StreakFighter warranty against streaking and discoloration caused by blue-green algae.
15-year, 110 mph wind-resistance warranty. A wind warranty upgrade to 130 mph is available for Landmark. By using specified CertainTeed starter shingles and CertainTeed hip and ridge shingles.
Grand Manor - View shingle & colors here
Carriage House - View shingle & colors here
Belmont Shingles- View shingle & colors here
Presidential Shake TL - View shingle & colors here
Presidential Shake - View shingle & colors here
Highland Slate - View shingle & colors here
Owens Corning has One Designer Shingle
Lifetime warranty(10 years non-prorated) - 50 years non-prorated if you use a Preferred or Platinum-approved contractor.
10-year StreakGuard algae-resistant warranty, prorated after 1 year.
15-year 110 mph wind warranty. The wind warranty can be upgraded to 130 mph. Using Owens Corning starter and hip and ridge accessories along with a special installation method.
Berkshire - View shingle & colors here
We've covered a lot of information. You learned the different levels of factory-certified contractors. The levels of warranties their factory-certified contractor can provide. And the four shingle styles each brand offers. So what does it mean for you? We'll summarize the information in the key takeaway section.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Shingles
Owens Corning has a clause in their warranty that states "Their warranty can be voided by installation errors."
As a homeowner, anytime there's a clause in the fine print of a warranty, it's a red flag. This clause allows Owens Corning to void the warranty if the materials were not installed properly. With over 90% of roof failures being attributed to installation errors, this leaves the door open to denying many roof warranty claims. (Yes, it's already happened)
For this reason, RoofCrafters doesn't recommend Owens Corning shingles as a first or second choice. With that being said, if you find a particular style or color that you love that's ok. As long as you understand you'll have less coverage, then there's no problem using their shingles.
Neither CertainTeed nor GAF has these "installation error" clauses in their fine print. GAF has included in their fine print that even if your GAF products were not properly installed. They'll still warranty their products.
Certainteed has the best selection of colors for upgraded architectural shingles to choose from. They also have the largest selection of designer shingles if you are wanting a certain style of luxury shingle.
Now, if you're concerned with black streaking and algae you may want to consider moving to a GAF shingle. CertainTeed shingles only come with 10 or 15-year algae warranties. GAF shingles will provide 25-year algae protection.
Algea Causing Black Streaks
Also, CertainTeed only has one level of warranty with 100% labor and material coverage. Their 5-Star Protection Warranty. If you're looking for 100% coverage and need to reduce the cost, GAF has the Silver Pledge Warranty which is 100% material and labor coverage for 10 years. However, CertainTeed is a great option if you find a specific style and color you want and are not concerned about the algae growing after 10 or 15 years.
GAF offers as much as the other manufacturers do. And they're the only brand to have the 25-year StainGuard Plus algae warranty. It's available for their architectural and designer shingles.
Making Your Final Shingle Choice with Confidence
Choosing the brand of shingles comes down to deciding what you want out of your roof investment. Getting the color you want may be the most important to you. Getting the perfect style shingle may be most important to you. Or maybe it's getting the maximum warranty coverage.
Once you decide what's important, our family at RoofCrafters Roofing will be here to guide you every step along the way. You'll get the highest-quality roof with a lifetime warranty. If you'd like help selecting the right shingle style and color, you can schedule your inspection below.
Roof installations remain one of the most costly home improvements. All over the U.S., homeowners use asphalt shingles to roof and re-roof homes&#;the most common type of residential roofing material. Asphalt shingles are durable, inexpensive and easy to install. Other common roof materials include tile, metal, wood and slate. Make sure to check for signs of roof damage regularly to prevent costly issues. If a roof is damaged, determine whether simple spot repairs are needed before opting to do a complete reinstallation.
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How Do I Know When I Need a New Roof?
It&#;s important to conduct regular visual inspections of a roof to look for signs of damage. Natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquakes or fires are obvious indicators of roof damage, but more common signs may be ceiling stains or drips, signs of wear like cracked or missing shingles, rust spots, moss or lichen growth, discoloration or peeling paint under eaves.
Asphalt shingles are made up of granules that tend to disintegrate over time. Granules found in a house&#;s gutters may be a sign that the shingles are breaking down and need to be replaced.
If a ceiling has a leak spot, homeowners can determine the source of the leak if the home has an unfinished attic or pitched roof that&#;s accessible. Remedies for simple leaks include filling a crack with caulk, replacing a few shingles or installing flashing to redirect water away from the home. It&#;s often easier to call a professional to find the source of a leak and determine the next steps, especially when leaks occur in a home without an unfinished attic or above-ceiling crawl space.
Even without obvious signs of damage, if a roof is more than 20 years old or out of warranty, then it may be time for the roof to be replaced by a professional roofer. Proactively replacing a roof will help prevent major damage to the roof structure and other parts of the house later on.
Types of Roofs
There are several types of roofs that suit different needs, costs, climates and labor. Read on to find an option that works best for you.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular type of roof material. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, asphalt shingles make up the roofs of four out of five homes across the U.S. Their durability, inexpensive cost and ease of installation mean low labor costs when hiring professional contractors. Asphalt shingles are made up of fiberglass, asphalt and ceramic granules. Lightweight and available in a variety of colors, shingles are also waterproof and provide decent insulation.
Not only do asphalt shingles require little to no maintenance, they also perform well in extreme temperatures where heavy winds, rain and ice are frequent. There is a range of textured and architectural styles that allow homeowners to achieve nearly any desired look at an economical price. On average, asphalt shingles last for 20 years, but warm humid climates may reduce the lifespan to as low as 10 years. Amateur DIYers can learn to install shingles themselves if the roof isn&#;t too steep.
Slate
Slate roofs are commonly found in the Northeast where hundred-year-old Gothic and Victorian-style houses are the norm. Colors include dark grey, green, and red. Slate is virtually indestructible and can last for up to 100 years, even with extreme weather. Slate roofs are often considered a deluxe option for homeowners because the material is expensive and heavy.
Common roofing professionals are not equipped to handle slate roofing jobs. Specialized masons are usually the only qualified professionals who can install slate properly. We do not recommend DIYers attempt a slate roofing install or repair.
Tiles
Tiles are a durable option for homes in Florida and the Southwest. They reflect heat and resemble Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture. Tiles can be difficult and laborious to install, so hiring a professional is recommended. There are two types of tiles commonly used in U.S. homes: clay and concrete.
Clay tiles usually have a barrel shape and are reddish-brown in color. Because tiles are durable but heavy, roof structure should be evaluated before making a switch to clay tiles. Clay tiles can last for up to 75 years, but chipping or breaking from pressure is a common concern.
Concrete tiles are strong, fireproof, insect-proof and resistant to hail damage. Although more costly than asphalt shingles, concrete tiles can resemble more expensive barrel-style clay tiles, slate roofs or wood shakes at a fraction of the cost. The roof structure should be evaluated before switching to concrete tiles because they are heavy.
Metal
Metal roofs are often made up of long strips, panels or tiles. Common types include steel, aluminum, copper and alloy. They can be found across the U.S. in different climates. Depending on the skill of the roofer, metal roofs can last much longer than asphalt shingles (up to 50 years, generally). They often have ridges or textured surfaces that offer more variety for style. Factory paint finishes can also improve the overall look of a home by using different colors and combinations.
Metal roofs are strong, lightweight, resistant to rot, fireproof and recyclable. They are effective in reflecting sunlight which makes them a viable option for homes in warm climates. However, metal roofs can be slick, especially in cold climates where it frequently snows. Snow guards installed to the edges of a roof are recommended to prevent heavy snow from falling to the ground and injuring passersby.
If there is no risk of injuring passersby, metal roofs&#; smooth surfacing may be of considerable benefit when clearing snow from roofs. Metal panels can also be loud when it rains or hails. This can make cheaper metal prone to denting, but textured surfaces can help mask the appearance of dents, and higher quality metals shouldn&#;t dent easily.
Hiring a professional roofer is recommended to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of metal roofs, as well as evaluate the quality of product purchased.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles or shakes are premium materials that offer a traditional, natural look. They tend to turn a soft gray over time, which makes a home have a subtle rustic look. Wood shingles or shakes are not recommended for amateur DIYers. It&#;s also imperative to review local regulations to ensure that wood shingles are allowed. Some parts of the U.S. do not allow wooden roofs because they can be a fire hazard. When done right, wood shingles or shakes can last for up to 50 years.
Rubber Composite Shingles
Rubber composite shingles are an effective alternative to asphalt shingles. They are made from a blend of plastic and recycled rubber, making rubber shingles an environmentally-friendly option. They resemble slate and wood shakes which make them an affordable material with an attractive style. Rubber shingles are tough, durable, resistant to rot and insects and can last for up to 50 years.
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Popular Roof Styles
Whether a homeowner&#;s roof has a gabled, hip or flat roof style, asphalt shingles offer homeowners the opportunity to achieve a sophisticated look at a fraction of the cost. Standard 3-tab shingles allow a homeowner to create a textured look depending on the number, shape and alignment of the strips.
Architectural shingles can add a layer of depth that makes a roof look custom-made with non-repeating patterns. Interlocking shingles are fastened to each other, which can improve wind resistance in an extreme climate. Most types of shingles also come in a variety of colors. The potential designs are nearly endless depending on the homeowner&#;s desired look and the skill of a hired contractor.
Remember that the steeper the slope of the roof, the more visible it will be from the ground. Consult with a professional roofer to determine which type of design will best suit your home.
Roofing Shopping Tips
Homeowners should shop for the best roofing material and find the most reliable contractor to install it. The first step in the shopping process is to determine which type of material is desired and then shop around for different manufacturers. Estimate and compare the cost from each manufacturer before making a purchase. Many contractors will provide recommendations, though beware, many contractors likely receive sales commissions.
How to Estimate Cost
Manufacturers price roof materials by the square (a square is equal to 100 square feet). To estimate the cost, measure roof sections in feet, then multiply the length and width together to get the area in square feet. Sum up the areas, if measuring multiple sections, and add about 10% of the square footage to the total area to account for potential waste during installation. Divide the total by 100 to determine how many material squares are likely needed.
Materials are often sold in bundles, which means it&#;s important to look at how many square feet each bundle can cover. Consider buying extra material to have on hand in case of future damage. Within a 20- to 50-year lifespan, manufacturers may stop producing a specific material and having extra bundles on hand will make it much easier to perform spot treatments over time.
Get Bids From More Than One Contractor
Installation costs can vary based on the roof style, the amount of labor involved and the roofing materials. Check the manufacturer&#;s website to see which contractors they recommend. Homeowner insurance policies may also have a list of certified contractors located in your area. Look for a contractor who has at least a few years of experience and a decent reputation. Get local references and ask for local or state licenses to make sure they are accredited.
When asking for bids, ask for a cost breakdown that includes labor, materials, warranty options, any extras they can bring to the table and a contingency budget in case there are unexpected issues. We recommend soliciting bids from at least three contractors before signing any agreement to conduct work.
Review the Warranties
Make sure to read the fine print on lifetime warranties for roofing materials. Although warranties are sometimes marketed as lasting for a lifetime, they may only last up to 10 years. If a warranty is still active, the manufacturer will replace defective shingles at no cost. After a warranty has expired, roof materials will depreciate in value over time. A homeowner will only be reimbursed for the lesser value.
Manufacturer warranties often don&#;t cover extreme unpredictable weather. Homeowners insurance can protect the homeowner in this scenario.
Check to see if a manufacturer warranty is transferable to a new owner. If a homeowner chooses to sell a house before the roof warranty expires offering a transferable warranty will be an extra perk for the buyer.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing Roofing Material
Consider the following before making any final purchase.
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- Cost: Estimate costs of the roof materials and get bids from contractors before making a final decision.
- Extent of installation: Does the entire roof need to be replaced or only a portion of it? Discuss options with a professional roofer before making a decision.
- Whether the old roof needs to be torn out: Check with local regulations and a professional to see whether it&#;s possible to place new shingles over old ones. It&#;s less expensive than tearing up the old roof to replace it with a new one.
- Quality and experience of contractors: Double-check a contractor&#;s level of experience before hiring them. Read reviews online or ask around to get an idea on the quality of their work.
- Check local building codes or homeowner&#;s associations for guidance: Before making grand plans to design a unique roof, check with local guidelines before shopping around.
- Review the fire rating scale of roof materials: Fire ratings range from Class A to C, with Class A having the greatest fire resistance. This may be important depending on the home&#;s location.
- Double-check the roof structure and ensure there&#;s proper ventilation between the roof deck and ceiling: This is especially important for new homeowners who wish to install a new roof. Always check the integrity of the roof structure and make sure there&#;s enough ventilation before changing the roofing materials.
- Choose colors that complement the home: Speak with a designer or ask friends or family what their thoughts are on color choices.
- Make conscious choices if the roof has solar panels: Some manufacturer warranties become void if solar panels are installed on a homeowner&#;s roof. Always read the fine print and research the best types of roofing materials to use in conjunction with solar panels.