Roofing Shingle Companies: Choosing the Right One for Your Home
Choosing the right roofing shingles is a significant decision for any homeowner. The roof is your home’s primary defense against the elements, and the quality of your shingles directly impacts its longevity and performance. Navigating the vast landscape of roofing shingle companies can be overwhelming, but with the right information, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and budget. This guide explores some of the leading roofing shingle manufacturers, their product lines, warranties, and other crucial factors to consider during your selection process.
Understanding Roofing Shingle Types
Before diving into specific companies, it’s essential to understand the different types of roofing shingles available. Each type offers unique benefits and drawbacks in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetics.
Asphalt Shingles: The Most Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in North America, prized for their affordability, ease of installation, and versatility. They come in two primary types: organic and fiberglass.
Organic Asphalt Shingles: These shingles are made from a paper base saturated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules. While they were once a popular choice, organic shingles are becoming less common due to their increased susceptibility to moisture absorption and potential for warping or cracking. They generally have a shorter lifespan compared to fiberglass shingles.
Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles: Fiberglass shingles are constructed with a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules. They are more resistant to moisture and fire than organic shingles, making them a more durable and long-lasting option. Fiberglass shingles are also lighter, which can reduce the load on your roof structure.
Within the category of asphalt shingles, you’ll find three main styles:
3-Tab Shingles: These are the most basic and affordable type of asphalt shingle. They have a flat, uniform appearance and are characterized by three distinct tabs. While cost-effective, 3-tab shingles offer less wind resistance and a shorter lifespan compared to architectural shingles.
Architectural Shingles (Dimensional Shingles): Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, these shingles offer a more textured and visually appealing look. They are constructed with multiple layers of asphalt, creating a three-dimensional appearance that mimics the look of wood shakes or slate. Architectural shingles are more durable and wind-resistant than 3-tab shingles, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a balance of aesthetics and performance.
Premium Shingles: These are the highest-end asphalt shingles, offering exceptional durability, aesthetics, and performance. They often feature unique designs, advanced weathering technology, and extended warranties. Premium shingles are the most expensive option but can provide a significant upgrade to your home’s curb appeal and protection.
Composite Shingles: A Sustainable Alternative
Composite shingles are made from recycled materials such as plastic, rubber, and wood fibers. They offer a durable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional asphalt shingles. Composite shingles are known for their resistance to impact, fire, and weathering, making them a long-lasting option for homeowners. They also come in a variety of colors and styles to mimic the look of natural slate, wood, or tile.
Other Roofing Shingle Materials
While asphalt and composite shingles are the most common choices, other roofing materials are also available, including:
Wood Shingles and Shakes: These shingles offer a natural and rustic look, but they require regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect infestation. Wood shingles are also more susceptible to fire damage.
Slate Shingles: Slate is a natural stone that provides exceptional durability and longevity. Slate roofs can last for over 100 years, but they are also very heavy and expensive to install.
Tile Shingles: Tile shingles are made from clay or concrete and offer excellent fire resistance and durability. They are commonly used in warmer climates and can add a distinctive architectural style to your home.
Leading Roofing Shingle Companies
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of roofing shingles, let’s explore some of the leading manufacturers in the industry:
GAF Roofing: North America’s Largest Roofing Manufacturer
GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, known for its extensive product line, comprehensive warranties, and commitment to innovation. They offer a wide range of asphalt shingles, including 3-tab, architectural, and premium options, as well as roofing accessories and underlayment.
GAF Shingle Product Lines:
Timberline HDZ Shingles: GAF’s most popular architectural shingle, Timberline HDZ, offers a combination of affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They feature GAF’s LayerLock technology, which provides enhanced nail adhesion and wind resistance. Timberline HDZ shingles come in a variety of colors to complement any home style.
Timberline Ultra HD Shingles: These premium architectural shingles offer a more dimensional and sophisticated look compared to Timberline HDZ. They feature a thicker profile and enhanced color blending for a more luxurious appearance.
Grand Sequoia AS Shingles: Designed to mimic the look of wood shakes, Grand Sequoia AS shingles offer a rustic and elegant aesthetic. They feature a unique shadow effect that adds depth and dimension to your roof.
Glenwood Shingles: GAF’s most luxurious shingle line, Glenwood, replicates the look of hand-cut slate shingles. They offer exceptional durability, beauty, and a lifetime limited warranty.
GAF Warranties:
GAF offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment, including:
Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty: This warranty covers manufacturing defects in GAF shingles and accessories.
System Plus Limited Warranty: This warranty provides enhanced coverage when you use GAF accessories along with GAF shingles.
Silver Pledge Limited Warranty: This warranty offers even greater coverage, including tear-off costs in the event of a covered failure.
Golden Pledge Limited Warranty: GAF’s most comprehensive warranty, Golden Pledge, provides the highest level of protection, including a 25-year workmanship warranty.
Key Advantages of GAF Roofing:
Extensive Product Line: GAF offers a wide range of shingle styles and colors to suit any budget and aesthetic preference.
Comprehensive Warranties: GAF’s warranties provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Advanced Technology: GAF is constantly innovating to improve the performance and durability of its shingles.
Certified Contractors: GAF has a network of certified contractors who are trained to install their products properly.
Owens Corning Roofing: A Leader in Building Materials
Owens Corning is another leading manufacturer of roofing shingles and building materials. They are known for their innovative products, commitment to sustainability, and strong warranty programs. Owens Corning offers a wide range of asphalt shingles, including 3-tab, architectural, and designer options.
Owens Corning Shingle Product Lines:
Oakridge Shingles: Owens Corning’s most popular architectural shingle, Oakridge, offers a blend of affordability and style. They feature a warm, inviting look and are available in a variety of colors.
Duration Shingles: Duration shingles are known for their exceptional durability and wind resistance. They feature Owens Corning’s SureNail Technology, which provides enhanced nail adhesion and helps to prevent blow-offs.
TruDefinition Duration Shingles: These premium architectural shingles offer a more dimensional and sophisticated look compared to Oakridge and Duration. They feature bold, vibrant colors and a lifetime limited warranty.
Berkshire Shingles: Designed to mimic the look of natural slate, Berkshire shingles offer a timeless and elegant aesthetic. They are made from a durable composite material and are resistant to impact and weathering.
Owens Corning Warranties:
Owens Corning offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment, including:
Standard Limited Warranty: This warranty covers manufacturing defects in Owens Corning shingles.
System Protection Limited Warranty: This warranty provides enhanced coverage when you use Owens Corning roofing components together.
Platinum Protection Limited Warranty: Owens Corning’s most comprehensive warranty, Platinum Protection, offers the highest level of protection, including a lifetime workmanship warranty when installed by an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor.
Key Advantages of Owens Corning Roofing:
Innovative Products: Owens Corning is constantly developing new and innovative roofing products.
Strong Warranties: Owens Corning’s warranties provide excellent protection for your investment.
Sustainable Practices: Owens Corning is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices.
Preferred Contractor Network: Owens Corning has a network of Preferred Contractors who are trained to install their products to the highest standards.
CertainTeed Roofing: A Diverse Range of Roofing Solutions
CertainTeed is a leading manufacturer of building materials, including roofing shingles, siding, and insulation. They offer a diverse range of roofing solutions, including asphalt, composite, and metal shingles. CertainTeed is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
CertainTeed Shingle Product Lines:
Landmark Shingles: CertainTeed’s most popular architectural shingle, Landmark, offers a classic and timeless look. They are available in a wide range of colors and feature a dual-layer construction for enhanced durability.
Landmark Pro Shingles: Landmark Pro shingles offer enhanced performance and durability compared to the standard Landmark shingle. They feature a heavier weight and a more robust warranty.
Landmark TL Shingles: Landmark TL shingles are triple-laminated shingles that offer exceptional durability and a luxurious aesthetic. They are designed to mimic the look of natural slate or wood shakes.
Presidential Shake TL Shingles: These premium shingles are designed to replicate the look of hand-split wood shakes. They offer a rustic and elegant appearance with exceptional durability and weather resistance.
CertainTeed Warranties:
CertainTeed offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment, including:
Limited Lifetime Warranty: This warranty covers manufacturing defects in CertainTeed shingles.
SureStart Protection: This warranty provides enhanced coverage during the critical early years of the roof’s life.
Integrity Roof System Warranty: This warranty offers comprehensive coverage when you use CertainTeed roofing components together and have them installed by a CertainTeed credentialed contractor.
Key Advantages of CertainTeed Roofing:
Diverse Product Line: CertainTeed offers a wide range of roofing solutions to meet any budget and aesthetic preference.
Quality and Innovation: CertainTeed is committed to quality and innovation in its roofing products.
Sustainable Practices: CertainTeed is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices.
Credentialed Contractor Program: CertainTeed has a credentialed contractor program that ensures proper installation of their products.
TAMKO Building Products: A Family-Owned Roofing Company
TAMKO Building Products is a family-owned roofing company that has been manufacturing roofing shingles for over 75 years. They offer a wide range of asphalt shingles, including 3-tab, architectural, and premium options. TAMKO is known for its commitment to quality, affordability, and customer service.
TAMKO Shingle Product Lines:
Heritage Shingles: TAMKO’s most popular architectural shingle, Heritage, offers a classic and timeless look. They are available in a wide range of colors and feature a unique shadow effect that adds depth and dimension to your roof.
Heritage Premium Shingles: Heritage Premium shingles offer enhanced performance and durability compared to the standard Heritage shingle. They feature a heavier weight and a more robust warranty.
Heritage Woodgate Shingles: These premium shingles are designed to replicate the look of wood shakes. They offer a rustic and elegant appearance with exceptional durability and weather resistance.
MetalWorks Shingles: TAMKO also offers MetalWorks shingles, which are metal roofing panels designed to look like traditional shingles. They provide exceptional durability and longevity.
TAMKO Warranties:
TAMKO offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment, including:
Limited Lifetime Warranty: This warranty covers manufacturing defects in TAMKO shingles.
Wind Warranty: TAMKO shingles are designed to withstand high winds, and their warranties offer protection against wind damage.
Key Advantages of TAMKO Roofing:
Family-Owned and Operated: TAMKO is a family-owned and operated company with a long history of providing quality roofing products.
Affordable Options: TAMKO offers a range of affordable roofing solutions to meet any budget.
Customer Service: TAMKO is known for its commitment to customer service.
Atlas Roofing Corporation: Innovation in Roofing Technology
Atlas Roofing Corporation is a leading manufacturer of roofing shingles and insulation products. They are known for their innovative technologies and commitment to providing high-performance roofing solutions. Atlas offers a range of asphalt shingles, including architectural and premium options.
Atlas Shingle Product Lines:
Pinnacle Pristine Shingles: Atlas’s Pinnacle Pristine shingles feature Scotchgard Protector, which helps to resist black streaks caused by algae. They offer exceptional durability and a beautiful aesthetic.
Briarwood Pro Shingles: Briarwood Pro shingles offer a rustic and dimensional look, designed to mimic the appearance of wood shakes. They are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a natural and elegant aesthetic.
StormMaster Shake Shingles: These shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds and hail. They offer exceptional durability and impact resistance.
Atlas Warranties:
Atlas offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment, including:
Limited Lifetime Warranty: This warranty covers manufacturing defects in Atlas shingles.
Algae Resistance Warranty: Atlas shingles with Scotchgard Protector are covered by an algae resistance warranty.
Wind Warranty: Atlas shingles are designed to withstand high winds, and their warranties offer protection against wind damage.
Key Advantages of Atlas Roofing:
Innovative Technology: Atlas is known for its innovative roofing technologies, such as Scotchgard Protector.
High-Performance Products: Atlas offers a range of high-performance roofing solutions designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Comprehensive Warranties: Atlas warranties provide excellent protection for your investment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Shingle Company
Choosing the right roofing shingle company is a crucial decision that can impact the longevity and performance of your roof. Here are some key factors to consider:
Shingle Type and Style
Consider the different types of roofing shingles available and choose one that meets your needs and budget. Think about the aesthetic you want to achieve for your home.
Warranty Coverage
Carefully review the warranty coverage offered by different roofing shingle companies. Look for warranties that cover manufacturing defects, wind damage, and algae resistance. Also, understand the terms and conditions of the warranty, including any requirements for installation and maintenance.
Cost
Roofing shingles vary in price depending on the type, style, and manufacturer. Get quotes from multiple contractors and compare the total cost of the project, including materials and labor.
Durability and Longevity
Choose shingles that are durable and long-lasting, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Look for shingles with a high wind rating and impact resistance.
Aesthetics
Consider the aesthetic appeal of the shingles and choose a style and color that complements your home’s architecture. Roofing shingles can significantly impact your home’s curb appeal.
Contractor Recommendation
Ask your roofing contractor for their recommendations on roofing shingle companies. They can provide valuable insights based on their experience with different brands and products.
Reputation and Reviews
Research the reputation of different roofing shingle companies by reading online reviews and checking with the Better Business Bureau. Look for companies with a strong track record of customer satisfaction.
Local Climate
Consider the climate in your area when choosing roofing shingles. For example, if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, you’ll need shingles that can withstand the weight of the snow. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want shingles that are resistant to heat and UV damage.
Installation Requirements
Understand the installation requirements for different types of roofing shingles. Some shingles may require specialized installation techniques or accessories. Make sure your roofing contractor is experienced in installing the type of shingles you choose.
Sustainability
If you are concerned about sustainability, consider choosing composite shingles made from recycled materials. Some roofing shingle companies also offer shingles that are designed to be more energy-efficient.
Finding a Qualified Roofing Contractor
Choosing the right roofing contractor is just as important as choosing the right roofing shingles. A qualified contractor will have the experience and expertise to install your roof properly and ensure that it performs as intended. Here are some tips for finding a qualified roofing contractor:
Get Referrals
Ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals to reputable roofing contractors.
Check Licenses and Insurance
Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured in your state. This will protect you in case of accidents or damage to your property.
Read Reviews
Check online reviews and ratings of different roofing contractors. Look for contractors with a strong track record of customer satisfaction.
Get Multiple Quotes
Get quotes from multiple contractors and compare their prices and services.
Ask for References
Ask the contractor for references from previous customers. Contact the references and ask about their experience with the contractor.
Check Their Experience
Choose a contractor with experience installing the type of roofing shingles you choose. Ask about their experience with similar projects.
Review the Contract
Carefully review the contract before signing it. Make sure it includes all the details of the project, including the scope of work, materials, price, and payment schedule.
Get Everything in Writing
Get all agreements and changes in writing. This will protect you in case of disputes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roofing shingle company is a significant investment that can protect your home and enhance its value. By understanding the different types of roofing shingles, considering the key factors discussed in this guide, and working with a qualified roofing contractor, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget. Remember to research different manufacturers, compare warranties, and choose a contractor with experience and a strong reputation. A well-chosen and properly installed roof will provide years of protection and peace of mind.