Choosing the right roof shingles for your home is a crucial decision. Not only do they protect your home from the elements, but they also contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal and value. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice.
We’ll be covering:
- All the best roof shingles and their brands
- When to replace your shingles
- The pros and cons of asphalt shingles
Keep reading to learn all of this and more!!
Signs You Need to Replace Your Roofing System
Before diving into the best roof shingle brands, it’s essential to understand when it’s time to replace your roofing system. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Age: If your roof is approaching 20-25 years old, it may be time for a replacement, as most roofs have a lifespan of 20-30 years.
- Missing or Damaged Shingles: Missing, cracked, or curled shingles are a sign of roof wear and may indicate the need for replacement.
- Leaks or Water Damage: Water stains on your ceiling or walls, as well as mold or mildew growth in your attic, are signs of a leaky roof that needs attention.
- Sagging Roof Deck: A sagging roof deck indicates structural damage and requires immediate professional inspection and potential replacement.
- Increased Energy Bills: Poorly functioning roofing systems can lead to energy inefficiencies, resulting in higher heating and cooling costs.
5 Best Roofing Shingles by Brand
To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of the five best roof shingle brands to consider for your home.
1) GAF
GAF is one of the most trusted names in the roofing industry, known for its high-quality products and innovative technologies. Their shingles are durable, weather-resistant, and come in a wide range of styles and colors to suit any architectural design.
GAF offers several lines of shingles, including Timberline HD, Timberline Ultra HD, and Timberline American Harvest. Each line features advanced features like StainGuard® protection against algae growth and Dura Grip™ adhesive seals for enhanced wind resistance. With a GAF roof, you can rest assured that your home is protected and looks great for years to come.
2) Owens Corning
Owens Corning is another leading manufacturer of roofing materials, renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their shingles are designed to withstand the toughest weather conditions while enhancing the beauty of your home. Owens Corning offers a variety of shingle options, including Duration® Series, Oakridge® Series, and Berkshire® Collection.
These shingles are engineered with advanced technologies like SureNail® Technology for superior adhesion and TruDefinition® Color Platform for vibrant, lasting color. Whether you prefer the classic look of asphalt shingles or the elegance of architectural shingles, Owens Corning has a solution for you.
3) CertainTeed
CertainTeed has been a trusted name in the roofing industry for over a century, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Their shingles are crafted with precision and attention to detail, using the finest materials to ensure long-lasting performance.
CertainTeed offers a wide range of shingle styles, including Landmark® Series, Landmark® Pro Series, and Landmark® Premium Series. These shingles are designed to resist algae growth, withstand high winds, and enhance the curb appeal of your home. With their industry-leading warranties and superior craftsmanship, CertainTeed shingles are an excellent choice for any homeowner.
4) Tamko
Tamko is a family-owned company that has been producing quality roofing products for over 75 years. Their shingles are known for their durability, performance, and affordability, making them a popular choice among homeowners and contractors alike.
Tamko offers a variety of shingle options, including Heritage® Series, Heritage® Premium Series, and Heritage® Woodgate® Series. These shingles are engineered with features like double-layer fiberglass mat construction for strength and Flexor™ polymer modified asphalt for flexibility and weather resistance. With their wide selection of colors and styles, Tamko shingles offer both beauty and reliability for your home.
5) Atlas Roofing Corporation
Atlas Roofing Corporation is a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing products, known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Their shingles are designed to deliver superior performance and durability, backed by industry-leading warranties for peace of mind.
Atlas offers several lines of shingles, including Pinnacle® Pristine, StormMaster® Slate, and Legend® Designer. These shingles feature advanced technologies like Scotchgard™ Protector for stain resistance and Core4™ Technology for enhanced strength and durability. Whether you prefer the look of traditional asphalt shingles or the elegance of designer shingles, Atlas has a solution to meet your needs.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in North America for good reason. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
✅ Pros:
Affordability: Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Easy Installation: Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install, which can save you time and labor costs during the installation process.
Variety of Styles and Colors: Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to find the perfect match for your home’s aesthetic.
Durability: High-quality asphalt shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and snow, providing long-lasting protection for your home.
❌ Cons:
Lifespan: While asphalt shingles are durable, they typically have a shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials like metal or tile.
Maintenance Required: Asphalt shingles may require periodic maintenance, such as cleaning debris and replacing damaged shingles, to ensure optimal performance.
Environmental Impact: Asphalt shingles are not the most environmentally friendly roofing option, as they are petroleum-based and not easily recyclable.
Susceptibility to Algae and Mold: Asphalt shingles are prone to algae and mold growth in humid climates, requiring regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and performance.
Different Types of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in various types to suit different aesthetic preferences and budget considerations. Here are the most common types:
Three-Tab Shingles: Three-tab shingles are the most basic and affordable type of asphalt shingles, featuring a flat, uniform appearance with three tabs per shingle.
Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, architectural shingles have a multi-dimensional appearance with varying shapes and sizes, providing a more upscale look.
Designer Shingles: Designer shingles mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood, slate, or cedar shakes, offering enhanced aesthetics and curb appeal.
Impact-Resistant Shingles: Impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand hail and debris impact better than standard asphalt shingles, providing added protection for your home.
Cool Roof Shingles: Cool roof shingles are coated with reflective granules to reduce heat absorption and lower energy costs, making them ideal for hot climates and energy-efficient homes.
Quality Roofing Shingles Installed By a Quality Roofing Contractor
When it comes to choosing the best roof shingles for your home, it’s essential to consider factors like durability, performance, and aesthetics. The five brands mentioned above—GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Tamko, and Atlas Roofing Corporation—stand out for their exceptional quality, innovative features, and industry-leading warranties.
Whether you’re looking for classic asphalt shingles or high-end designer shingles, these brands offer a wide range of options to suit your needs and preferences. Invest in the right roof shingles today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is protected and looks great for years to come.
Contact Greentek Roofing and learn about the best shingles for your roofing goals!
