When it comes to your roof, shingles are the main line of defense against the elements and provide a pleasant aesthetic that will make your home stand out among the rest. That’s why choosing the right shingles is so crucial to a functional, beautiful home.
The type of shingle you choose will depend on a number of factors, such as climate, building type, budget and warranty needs. When it comes to choosing the right shingle type, asphalt shingles are revered as a top-quality choice because they’re affordable, have a nice look and can last 30 years or more. Other homeowners compare cedar shake vs cedar shingle roofing materials which are a little different from typical asphalt shingles.
But, with so many options in sizes and colors from so many manufacturers, it can be tough sorting out which one will serve your needs in the best way possible. Finding good roofing shingles is much more important than the best gutter guards since it protects a larger part of your home. Be sure to do your research before making a final decision. We’re here to help – here are a comparison of the largest shingle manufacturers, including GAF, Owens Corning, Certainteed, Atlas and Tamko.
GAF Roofing Shingles
Visit their official website to find out which GAF roof shingle is right for you: gaf.com
Founded in 1886, GAF has become the largest roofing manufacturer in the United States. In 2011, the company made history by becoming the first roofing manufacturer to offer a lifetime limited warranty on all of its laminated shingles and, in 2012, it introduced the “GAF Lifetime Roofing System”. In addition the best warranties in the industry, GAF offers a comprehensive product portfolio of steep-slope and commercial roofing systems, with their shingles supported by an extensive national network of factory-certified contractors. Their success is driven by its commitment to Advanced Quality, Industry Expertise, and Solutions Made Simple for contractors, specifiers and property owners alike.
GAF shingle lines:
Designer Shingles:
Camelot
Camelot II
Glenwood
Grand Canyon
Grand Sequoia
Grand Sequoia Armorshield
Sienna
Slateline
Woodland
Three-Tab Roofing Shingles:
Marquis Weathermax
Royal Sovereign
Timberline Roofing Shingles:
Timberline American Harvest
Timberline Armorshield II
Timberline Cool Series
Timberline HD
Timberline Natural Shadow
Timberline Ultra HD
Their top warranty is known as the Golden Pledge, and is applicable to all GAF lifetime shingles.
Owens Corning Roof Shingles
Visit their official website to find out which Owens Corning roof shingle is right for you: owenscorning.com/roofing/
Since 1938, Owens Corning has been a market leader in home contracting solutions, from fiberglass insulation products to Surenail technology to shingle manufacturing and beyond. The company has continually grown since their inception, a member of the Fortune 500 list for almost 60 years. Because of their commitment to innovation, Owens Corning has redefined the techniques of developing and delivering high-quality home construction products and services to customers around the world.
Owens Corning shingle lines and warranty:
TruDefinition Duration:
Architectural shingle with bold color and deep contrast
TruDefinition Duration Designer:
Architectural shingle with intense, vibrant color and high contrast
TruDefinition Duration Storm:
Architectural shingle with bold color and deep contrast
Duration Premium Cool:
Solar reflecting architectural shingles in lighter colors
Oakridge:
Architectural shingle with blended color
Berkshire:
Laminated shingle extra large dramatic slate shape
Woodcrest:
Thick wood shake appearance
Supreme:
Traditional three-tab shape and blended color
All Owens Corning shingles have standard limited warranties.
CertainTeed Roof Shingles
Visit their official website to find out which CertainTeed roof shingle is right for you: certainteed.com
CertainTeed Roofing, another leading shingle manufacturing company, offers a full range of low- and steep-slope roofing products for both residential and commercial properties. Founded in 1904 as General Roofing Manufacturing Company, today, CertainTeed is North America’s leading brand of exterior and interior building products, including roofing, siding, fence, decking, railing, trim, insulation, gypsum and ceilings. CertainTeed Roofing has grown to include more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout North America and 5,700 employees and has become well known for their great warranties and reliable shingles. This company is considered the second most popular manufacturer for sloped roofing after GAF.
Shingle lines:
Traditional/Strip Shingles:
Patriot
XT 30 IR
XT 25 Metric
XT 25 CT 20
Swiftstart
Firescreen
Designer
Landmark
Landmark Pro Solaris
Landmark Pro
Landmark Premium
Landmark Solaris Platinum
Landmark Solaris Gold
Landmark Solaris
Landmark IR
Highland Slate
Northgate
Mountain Ridge
Cedarcrest
Firehalt
Luxury
Grand Manor
Carriage House
Belmont
Belmont IR
Arcadia Shake
Presidential Shake TL
Presidential TL Solaris
Presidential Solaris Gold
Presidential Shake IR
Presidential Shake
Presidential Solaris
Another bonus of using CertainTeed shingles are their guaranteed resistance to algae growth. In the event that algae does grow, the manufacturer will clean or replace the affected shingles.
Atlas Roof Shingles
Visit their official website to find out which Atlas roof shingle is right for you: atlasroofing.com
Atlas Roofing Corporation is an innovative, customer-oriented manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing shingles and other building supplies. Atlas has grown from a single roofing shingle manufacturing facility in 1982 into an industry leader with 17 plants in North America and worldwide product distribution.
Shingle lines:
Three-Tab Shingles:
Legend
GlassMaster
Tough-Glass
Architectural Shingles:
StormMaster Shake
Pinnacle Pristine
Legend
ProLam
Slate Shingles:
StormMaster Slate
Legend
TAMKO Roof Shingles
Visit their official website to find out which TAMKO roof shingle is right for you: tamko.com
TAMKO Building Products, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing products, waterproofing products, composite decking and railing systems, and cements and coatings. They are one of the best options for replacing a shingle roof.
Shingle lines:
Heritage Vintage
Heritage Woodgate
Heritage Premium
Heritage
Elite Glass-Seal
How to Choose the Right Shingle Brand and Style for You
When it comes to selecting shingles for your home, the choices may feel overwhelming—but don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the process. Your roof is a critical part of your home’s protection and curb appeal, so choosing the right brand and style is essential. Follow these tips to narrow it down and make a decision you’ll be confident in.
1. Consider the Weather
Your local climate plays a big role in determining the best shingles for your home. Live in an area with heavy rain or snow? Look for shingles designed for durability and resistance to moisture. If you’re in a sunnier region, UV-resistant shingles will protect your roof from fading or damage due to prolonged sun exposure.
2. Look at Your Home’s Style
Your roof is one of the first things people notice about your house, so it pays to choose shingles that complement its architectural design.
- Traditional homes often pair well with classic asphalt shingles in neutral tones.
- Modern homes tend to look stunning with clean lines and darker shingle colors for contrast.
- Rustic homes or cottages shine with shingles that mimic wood or slate for a natural look.
Explore sample photos online or consult with local roofing experts to visualize how different shingle styles work with your home.
3. Think About Durability
Shingles are a long-term investment, so pick a brand known for quality and reliability. Look for warranties that cover at least 20–30 years and check customer reviews for real-world performance feedback. Certain brands even specialize in impact-resistant shingles that stand up to hail and debris—perfect if you want added peace of mind.
4. Choose the Right Color
Shingle colors do more than boost curb appeal—they can also affect your home’s energy efficiency. Lighter shingles reflect heat, making them ideal for warm climates, while darker shingles absorb heat to keep homes cozy in cooler environments. Visualizing how the color will complement your exterior paint, trim, or landscaping is also key.
5. Prioritize Budget Without Compromising Quality
While it’s important to stick within your budget, avoid going for the cheapest option at the expense of quality. Mid-range shingles often offer the best mix of affordability and longevity. Remember, a higher upfront investment can save you money on repairs and replacements in the future.
6. Consult Roofing Professionals
Sometimes, you just need expert advice to make the best choice. Professional roofers can assess your home’s specific needs, provide product recommendations, and even show you samples of shingles to help you decide.
Friendly Tip: Don’t forget to ask about local building codes—some areas require specific types of shingles, especially for fire resistance or storm performance.
Choosing the perfect shingles doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By thinking about factors like weather, style, and durability, you’ll be able to find a brand and style that you can trust for years to come. Your home deserves a roof that’s not just protective, but also beautiful!
Why Choose GAF Shingles Over Competitors?
When comparing GAF shingles to competitors like Atlas, Tamko, or Owens Corning, GAF consistently stands out for its durability, innovation, and extensive warranty options. Homeowners in harsh or storm-prone climates appreciate GAF’s Advanced Protection® Shingle Technology, which provides long-lasting durability while being environmentally friendly.
In a GAF vs Atlas Shingles comparison, GAF leads with features like StainGuard® protection to combat algae growth, ensuring your roof maintains its appearance over time. Similarly, when evaluating GAF vs Tamko Shingles or GAF vs Owens Corning, GAF’s superior variety of colors and styles gives homeowners the flexibility to match their home’s unique architecture while maintaining reliable protection.
A key factor in choosing GAF is its warranty comparison. GAF shingles often come with extensive warranties, offering peace of mind that your roof is built to last, unlike warranties from some competitors that may offer less coverage.
When weighing your options, GAF shingles deliver a proven combination of innovation, versatility, and trusted performance, making them the go-to choice for countless homeowners and roofing professionals alike.
Looking for a roofing specialist to install your new shingles?
Contact Northface Construction today! We’re the number-one provider of cedar roofing services in the greater Twin Cities area. With a strong commitment to providing personalized experiences, quality craftsmanship and reasonable prices on our roofing services, you’ll find a partner in Northface Construction. Get in touch with one of our dedicated service representatives now to see how we can help you.
For more roofing information, check out our roofing checklist!