GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are three of the best known asphalt shingle brands in the U.S., and all three make good architectural shingles. Their main lines are GAF Timberline, Owens Corning Duration, and CertainTeed Landmark. For most homes, how the roof is put on matters more than which of the three you pick.
What are the main shingle lines from each brand?
Here is a quick side by side, from each maker's own pages. Brands change their lineups, so check the current product page before you decide.
| GAF | Owens Corning | CertainTeed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main architectural line | Timberline (HDZ, UHDZ, NS, AS II) | TruDefinition Duration | Landmark, Landmark PRO |
| Impact-rated (Class 4) choices | Yes, a Class 4 line | Duration FLEX, Duration STORM | Landmark ClimateFlex, NorthGate ClimateFlex |
| Algae resistance name | StainGuard | StreakGuard | StreakFighter |
| Heavier designer looks | Camelot II, Grand Sequoia, Slateline, Woodland | See current lineup | Grand Manor, Presidential |
| Standard material warranty | Limited lifetime, full coverage for the first 10 years | Limited lifetime, 10 years of full coverage | SureStart: 3, 5, or 10 years of full coverage, by product |
How is GAF different?
GAF Timberline HDZ is one of the most common shingles on new roofs. GAF's warranty guide says Timberline wind coverage can reach 130 mph or more, depending on how it is installed. Some GAF shingles need 6 nails per shingle and GAF starter strip to get that higher wind coverage. Timberline HDZ uses a wider nailing area that gets there with 4 nails.
GAF's algae coverage runs 10, 25, or 30 years, depending on the StainGuard label on the bundle.
How is Owens Corning different?
The Duration family is Owens Corning's main architectural line. Duration FLEX is made with a rubber-like asphalt and carries the top impact rating, UL 2218 Class 4.
One detail to know: Owens Corning's 25 year StreakGuard algae coverage depends on using its own hip and ridge caps. Without them, it drops to 10 years.
How is CertainTeed different?
CertainTeed's Landmark line is its main architectural shingle. ClimateFlex is its impact-resistant option, and StreakFighter is its algae protection. CertainTeed's SureStart period covers materials and labor at 100 percent for 3, 5, or 10 years, depending on the product.
Which brand do we install?
We usually install GAF Timberline shingles. We also install Owens Corning. You pick the color, or we match your old roof. If you have an HOA, check with them first. Many want to approve the color, and we can send you the shingle name and color for your form.
What matters more than the brand?
All three brands are solid. What makes a roof last is mostly about the install.
- Following the maker's instructions. Nail count, nail spot, and starter strip all matter. Skipping them can cut wind coverage.
- Using matching parts. Warranties often count on the brand's own starter strip and ridge caps, like the Owens Corning algae rule above.
- Attic airflow. GAF says a roof without enough attic ventilation is not covered under its warranty.
- A full tear-off. Taking the old roof off lets the roofer see and replace bad wood. Read tear-off vs roof-over.
Are Class 4 shingles worth it?
Class 4 is the top score on a test where steel balls are dropped on the shingle. Class 4 shingles are tougher, but no shingle is hail proof. GAF's own fine print says hail damage is not covered under its limited warranty. Our post on the best shingles for North Carolina homes covers when an impact shingle makes sense.
How do the warranties compare?
Each maker's standard warranty covers defects in its shingles. None of them cover the roofer's work. That is what a workmanship warranty is for. Ours is 5 years on our workmanship, plus the shingle maker's warranty on materials. See workmanship vs manufacturer warranties for the full picture.
The bottom line
Pick the look and features you like from any of the three. Then pick a roofer who installs it right, cleans up, and stands behind the work.
Book a free roof inspection and we will text you photos and video of your roof. Or read how our roof replacement works.
Common questions
Is GAF better than Owens Corning?
Neither is clearly better for most homes. Both make good architectural shingles. The install, the attic airflow, and using matching parts matter more than the brand name.
Which shingles do you install?
We usually install GAF Timberline shingles. We also install Owens Corning. You pick the color, or we match your old roof.
Does the shingle brand change my warranty?
Each brand has its own material warranty. They all cover defects in the shingles, not the install. Ours adds 5 years on our workmanship.
Can a roofer mix brands on one roof?
It is better not to. Makers often tie their warranty coverage to their own starter strip and ridge caps.
