As far as the roofing industry is concerned, GAF and Owens Corning are two of the biggest names in the business. Both companies offer a wide range of shingles that promise longevity and aesthetic appeal. But how do you choose between the two?
In this ultimate showdown, we’ll delve into the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of GAF vs Owens Corning shingles. From the quality of materials to the warranty offered, this guide will provide you with the insights you need to choose the perfect roofing solution. So, without further ado, let’s discover which brand reigns supreme in the battle between specialty shingles.
An Overview of GAF Shingles
GAF has been a trusted name in roofing for over 130 years, and their shingles are renowned for their quality and performance. GAF offers a wide range of shingle options, including their popular Timberline series.
The Timberline series is known for its dimensional look, mimicking the appearance of wood shakes. These shingles are offered in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their homes.
GAF shingles are made from high-quality materials, like fiberglass asphalt. The combination of these materials provides excellent durability and strength, making them resistant to harsh weather conditions and impact damage. Additionally, GAF shingles are designed to be fire-resistant, offering an added layer of security for your home.
One of the standout features of GAF roofing shingles is their Advanced Protection Technology. This technology ensures that the products meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
GAF’s materials are rigorously tested to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rain. This gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their roofs can resist the elements and protect their homes for years to come.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of GAF Shingles
Although GAF roofing shingles are great, they have pros and cons. Here’s a look at the upsides and downsides of this shingle brand:
✅Pros
- Styles: GAF shingles come with a range of colors and finishes that make them an attractive choice for homeowners. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or modern look, GAF has a shingle that will suit your needs.
- Durability: Another upside of GAF shingles is their exceptional durability. With their Advanced Protection Technology, GAF shingles can withstand the harshest weather conditions.
- Easy Installation: In terms of installation, GAF shingles are relatively easy to work with. They come with clear installation instructions, making it easier for contractors to install them correctly. This can help reduce the installation time and minimize the chances of errors or complications.
❌Cons
There are a few drawbacks to consider when choosing GAF shingles, such as:
- Price: One of the main concerns is the price. GAF shingles tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum compared to other brands. While they offer excellent quality and durability, the higher price tag may not be feasible for homeowners on a tight budget.
- Availability: While GAF is a well-known brand, its shingles may not be as readily available in some areas compared to other brands. This could potentially cause delays in procuring the materials needed for your roofing project.
An Overview of Owens Corning Shingles
Owens Corning is a trusted name in the roofing industry, known for their high-quality shingles. They offer incredible shingle options, including their popular TruDefinition Duration series. These shingles provide exceptional curb appeal and come in an array of designs.
Like GAF, Owens Corning shingles are made from a blend of roofing materials that provide excellent durability and strength. The fiberglass mat used in Owens Corning shingles is specially formulated to resist harsh weather, and it’s fire-resistant. This ensures that you receive the ultimate protection for your property.
In terms of aesthetics, Owens Corning shingles are known for their vibrant colors and dimensional appearance. The TruDefinition Duration series, in particular, offers a high-definition look that can completely upgrade the aesthetic of your home. These premium shingles are made to mimic the look of natural materials, giving your house a sophisticated, timeless appearance.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Owens Corning Shingles
Owens Corning shingles offer several advantages that make them a desired choice among homeowners. Here’s why:
- Strength: One of the primary advantages of Owens Corning roof shingles is their incredible strength. They can endure extreme weather conditions, like strong winds and severe storms. This durability ensures that your roof can withstand the test of time.
- Variety: Owens Corning products offer a wide range of color options. With their TruDefinition Duration series, homeowners have the flexibility to choose from vibrant colors that can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of their roofs. This allows homeowners to personalize their property and make a statement in their neighborhood.
- Simple Installation: Similar to GAF, Owens Corning shingles are simple to install. The installation instructions are cut and dry, and professional roofing contractors know how to insert asphalt shingles with no problem.
There are a few disadvantages to consider when choosing Owens Corning shingles, which include:
- Algae Growth: While Owens Corning shingles are made to resist algae growth, some homeowners may find that their shingles still develop algae streaks over time. This can impact the roof’s overall appearance and may require additional maintenance to keep the roof looking clean and vibrant.
- Warranty: Owens Corning shingles come with a warranty, the exact terms and coverage may vary depending on the specific product and installation. It’s important to carefully review the warranty details to ensure that you understand what’s covered and for how long.
GAF Timberline HDZ vs Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration: Quality and Aesthetics
When comparing GAF and Owens Corning shingles, GAF Timberline HDZ and the Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration are top contenders. Both series offer fantastic quality, but there are a few key differences to note.
Both GAF Timberline shingles and Owens Corning Duration shingles are made from high-quality materials that provide incredible toughness. As previously mentioned, they’re designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and safeguard your property for many years. However, GAF shingles have the added advantage of their Advanced Protection Technology, which guarantees that their shingles meet the highest standards of performance and quality.
When it comes to aesthetics, both lines offer a range of colors and a dimensional appearance that enhances the look of homes. But, Owens Corning’s TruDefinition Duration shingles are known for their dramatic pigments, which can give your home a more sophisticated appearance compared to the GAF Timberline HDZ.
GAF vs Owens Corning Shingles: Technology and Warranties
GAF and Owens Corning offer innovative features that enhance the performance and longevity of their shingles. Again, GAF’s Advanced Protection Technology ensures that their shingles are top-tier. This technology includes an adhesive sealant that offers amazing wind resistance and improved durability.
Owens Corning also incorporates advanced technology into their shingles as well. Their patented SureNail Technology guarantees that the shingles stay in place, even in harsh conditions. Also, Owens Corning shingles come equipped with a Tru-Bond sealant that provides superior adhesion, which minimizes the risk of shingle blow-offs and water infiltration.
As far as warranty is concerned, GAF and Owens Corning offer warranties for their shingles, but the specifics may vary depending on the product and installation. GAF offers a limited lifetime warranty on their Timberline series, which covers manufacturing defects and provides protection for the homeowner.
Owens Corning also offers a limited lifetime warranty on their products, with additional coverage options available for select products. It’s important to review the warranty details carefully and understand what is covered and for how long.
Choosing the Perfect Roofing Solution for Your Home
When choosing between GAF and Owens Corning shingles, you can make the best decision for your home by considering these factors:
🏡Curb Appeal
Start by considering the look you want to achieve and pick shingles that complement your home’s exterior. Of course, you want to select roofing materials that will hold up for a long time, but appearances are important too. Once you get your new roofing system, you’ll have to look at those shingles for many years—so choose wisely.
💲Price
Price is also an important consideration. GAF shingles tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, while Owens Corning shingles offer a more affordable option. Consider your budget and weigh it against the features and benefits offered by each brand.
👷Warranty Coverage
Lastly, review the warranty details for both GAF and Owens Corning shingles. Understand what is covered, for how long, and any limitations or exclusions. A comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Get the Best Shingles for Your Roof
After reviewing this comparison guide, we hope you understand a bit more about the two top contenders in the roofing industry. Both of them bring great things to the table, and no matter which one you choose, we can install it.
At Best Exteriors, we use Owens Corning and CertainTeed products. We offer roof repair, roof replacement, and other home improvement services. So, if you’d like to get a quote, call 614-328-9546, or visit our website to request a free consultation.
