Did you know that your roof is one of the most important parts of your home? Protecting everything inside from the elements, your roof plays a critical role in the safety of your home and everything in it. When it comes time for a replacement, selecting the right asphalt shingle brand makes a difference in your roof’s performance, curb appeal, and longevity. Not all brands are created equally and offer different features and warranty options. With so many brands on the market, each claiming to be the best, how do you know which brands truly deliver?
In this article, we look at why asphalt shingles are a popular choice and will provide you with valuable information about why asphalt shingles are a good investment for your home. We will also discuss key factors a homeowner should consider before choosing the right shingle for their roof. By breaking down some of the top shingle brands by the varying levels of quality, warranties, wind resistance, pricing, and other brand-specific benefits that each company offers, you will be equipped to make the important decision of which shingle brand is best for you.
Why Choose Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are an affordable, durable, and easy-to-install roofing option, making asphalt shingles one of the most popular roofing materials in the United States. They can be made from organic mat or fiberglass that is coated with asphalt and topped with protective mineral granules that provide insulation and excellent weather resistance.
Here are some of the key reasons asphalt shingles are a popular choice:
– Asphalt shingles are a more budget-friendly option when it comes to roofing material when compared to materials like metal, wood, slate, clay, and other synthetic materials. Because of the cost differences, asphalt shingles are the most affordable while being durable and offering aesthetic appeal.
– Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and thicknesses, allowing homeowners to customize their home’s appearance and enhance its curb appeal.
– Asphalt shingles have an excellent ability to withstand a variety of different weather conditions. Wind resistance is a key factor here in Michigan as our winters can be cold and blustery. Along with wind resistance, the impact resistance of asphalt shingles provides even more durability against storms during all seasons.
– The ease of installation and maintenance make asphalt shingles a very popular choice.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Asphalt Brand for Your Home
There are specific factors to consider when evaluating the best brand for your home. Personal things to consider are your budget, the specific climate and weather you experience throughout the year, and your style or preferred aesthetic.
Other factors to think about when choosing the best asphalt shingle brand for your home are:
– The quality and durability of the brand’s shingles are critical considerations when choosing the best brand for your investment. The lifespan of the shingles will be directly related to these characteristics.
– Warranties vary greatly between brands. Some warranties are non-transferrable while others are. Some warranties cover workmanship while others only cover materials. The time of coverage or term limits are also a major difference between brands.
– In areas that can experience high winds and moisture, as we have here in Michigan, having a shingle with good wind ratings and weather resistance is a must.
– Cost and value should be key factors before any major investment. Some asphalt shingle brands offer quality and durability while still being affordable.
– Aesthetic options are plentiful and vary from brand to brand. Many colors and styles are available along with the three typical types of shingles: 3-Tab shingles, Architectural shingles, and Designer or Luxury shingles.
5 of the Top Asphalt Shingle Brands: A Detailed Breakdown
Tamko: Tamko brand may not be as well known as some other top brands, but they have over 75 years of experience in manufacturing quality asphalt shingles. Made in America, Tamko shingles are offered in the three typical types of shingles in a variety of colors, styles, and features. One of their most well-known is the Heritage Series offering a limited lifetime warranty and a wind rating of up to 130 mph. Offering many other lines for specific climate and storm-related protection, Tamko has a line rated Class 4 for hail protection, one with extreme weather resistance and enhanced wind protection up to 160 mph, and a line with basic features for the homeowner looking for a shingle that offers affordability over special features. Different warranty options are available, all with clear coverage regarding installation and manufacturing defects. Depending on the level of quality shingle selected, prices start at $55 to $200 per square (100 square feet).
IKO: IKO brand has a long and strong reputation for manufacturing shingles for more than 75 years. IKO offers a variety of shingles including traditional three-tab options, performance options, and architectural and designer shingles coming in a wide range of colors. Also known for its environmentally friendly options, IKO offers strong performance and economically friendly options. Pricing will vary depending on the style chosen but will range anywhere from $80 to $450 per square (100 square feet). Warranties are offered with IKO but some are non-transferable, meaning the warranty benefits cannot be transferred to a new homeowner if the home is sold.
Certain Teed: Certain Teed is a leading brand in the roofing world, its products are known for their durability and longevity. Many of the shingles offered have impact-resistant ratings, algae technology, and high wind resistance for winds up to 130 mph. Many of Certain Teed’s shingles meet Energy-Star requirements, offer Cool Roof Technology to improve energy efficiency, and also have a Class A fire rating. Warranties with Certain Teed are among some of the best in the industry, many coming with a limited lifetime warranty. The price of Certain Teed shingles will vary depending on factors like product line, quality, and regional factors. Prices will range from $70 to $245 per square (100 square feet).
Owens Corning: Owens Corning is another trusted company with more than 75 years of experience in the industry. Offering many different styles and colors, Owens Corning offers a variety of options with unique benefits and features for all budgets. Their SureNail Technology provides wind resistance up to 130 mph and with excellent waterproofing protection against severe weather. With special shingles that are designed to reflect sunlight in the summer, Owens Corning is also an energy-efficient option. They offer a range of warranty options that provide homeowners with different levels of protection based on their specific needs. Extended warranties can offer enhanced protection with longer protection periods and other benefits. There may be exclusions and some warranties may be transferable making it important to review specific terms and conditions for the warranty option you choose. Prices with these shingles can vary based on location, retailer, and specific product lines, so it is important to consult with a supplier or roofing contractor. Typically you can expect to pay $80 to $120 per square (100 square feet).
GAF: GAF is an American company, founded in family, that has roots in the asphalt industry dating as far back as 1886. With many innovations in granule technology, coloration, and granule application technique, GAF offers exceptional energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and extreme weather protection with wind ratings of 130 mph to 200 mph. With GAF’s welding technique used during installation, in addition to using adhesive, wind ratings surpass any of the competitors by 70 mph, offering protection for up to a whopping 200 mph. GAF shingles have also achieved the highest fire rating and protection against blue-green algae. GAF was the first shingle manufacturer to offer lifetime limited warranties on their laminated shingles and then extended that warranty to their entire roofing line one year later. Warranties are transferable, adding to the value of your home if you choose to sell in the future. Pricing may be a little higher than some due to the high quality, superior longevity, and superior warranty coverage. The price range for GAF asphalt shingles starts at around $60 per square to $160 per square for designer shingles.
Why We Choose GAF as Our Partner in Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Here at One Way Exteriors, where we provide roofing services in Ludington and the surrounding areas, we have chosen GAF as our preferred shingle manufacturer. With their strong American and family roots, they have been providing exceptional, high-quality material and craftsmanship to roofers for many decades. GAF offers amazing warranty options, even providing warranty coverage for workmanship. Not only that, GAF warranties are transferable, making your home more valuable on the market if you choose to sell within the term limits. With proprietary adhesive and a nail zone two times the size of others, GAF shingles provide the stability and performance that our weather demands and your home deserves.
Choosing the right asphalt shingle brand is important for the overall performance, longevity, and curb appeal of your roof. With so many options to choose from, understanding the unique features of each, their pricing, and warranty options of each brand, you can make the wisest choice that suits your home’s needs. Whether you are prioritizing affordability, weather resistance, or long-term warranty coverage, you can find a shingle brand to fit your needs. At One Way Exteriors, we trust GAF for its proven quality, reliability, and superior warranty options. If you are ready to upgrade your roof with top-of-the-line asphalt shingles, contact us today and we’ll help you make the best investment for your home.