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Three major shingle manufacturers are GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed, which offer a similar quality and scope of asphalt shingle products.
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Their Timberline, Duration, and Landmark lines offer high-quality, durable shingle packages that can be customized for particular purposes, like protection against heat, wind uplift, or impact.
Take a drive around your neighborhood, and you’re probably going to see a lot more asphalt shingle roofs than any other type. When it comes to shingle manufacturers, there are a few big names. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at three of the biggest ones: GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed. All three have long track records, full lines of asphalt shingles, and comprehensive roofing systems. Check out our guide to the best roof materials in Texas for a conversation beyond asphalt.
The Three Big Shingles Brands
If you’re getting roof work done or considering an upgrade, you’ll likely see GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed in the paperwork. All three sell asphalt shingles in the common tiers: 3-tab, architectural, and premium or designer. (If you need a primer on types of asphalt shingles, we have a guide for you.)
In truth, these manufacturers are all solid choices and have fairly similar offerings, such as architectural shingles with options to prevent windlift or impacts, make the installation process easier, or improve the cosmetic appearance of the roof. They also package matching system parts so the shingles, underlayment, ridge pieces, and vents work together.
Flagship Roofing Lines
Shingle manufacturers tend to create full lines of products so contractors can buy everything they need from one brand. These roofing “systems” also ensure maximal compatibility between each of the components. Expect to see brand starter strips at the eaves, synthetic underlayment, leak barrier at valleys and around penetrations, hip and ridge shingles, and ventilation components.
- Timberline is GAF’s flagship line, offered in multiple variants like Timberline HDZ and UHDZ for improved appearance. If hail is a concern, GAF also sells impact-resistant options, like Timberline ArmorShield II. There’s even a Timberline Solar option that generates solar energy from the shingles.
- Duration is Owens Corning’s line, built around its SureNail technology: a fabric strip that reinforces the shingle’s grip on the nails. The line also includes impact-resistant models like TruDefinition Duration STORM and FLEX, as well as aesthetic options in their Designer line.
- Landmark is CertainTeed’s line, which offers impact-resistant options like ClimateFlex for areas with extreme weather. They also offer CertaSeal to hold against wind lift, StreakFighter for algae resistance, and QuadraBond to hold roof layers together.
Does Certified Installer Status Matter?
The big brands run contractor programs that set training and program standards. Some programs also tie into extended coverage when a full system is installed. These certifications can be useful, but it isn’t the only way to get a roof installed right. Many dependable roofers aren’t enrolled in brand programs, sometimes because they don’t believe it’s in the customer’s best interest.
What matters more than certified installer status is for homeowners to pick the right contractors based on a long work history, positive references, and expertise. If a contractor is certified with a brand you like, that can be a plus. If they are not, judge them by the same basics above. A good contractor will be able to explain the pros, cons, and differences not just of different roof materials but of different shingle manufacturers.
We’re Here to Help
Need more information? If you have any questions or need assistance with damage, contact DFW Roofers at (469) 751-4018 or schedule an appointment through our online appointment form.