Choosing the right roofing shingles is a critical decision for any homeowner. Roofs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re your home’s biggest protection. In the market for shingles, two names frequently rise to the top of the list for quality, durability, and performance: GAF and Owens Corning.
This article will help you explore:
- The pros and cons of GAF vs Owens Corning
- How to choose the right one for you
- Which one is the better brand
Introduction to GAF and Owens Corning
Both GAF and Owens Corning are giants in the roofing industry, known for their high-quality products and innovative solutions. They each offer a range of shingles that cater to different styles and budgets, making them popular choices among homeowners and contractors alike.
A History of GAF
GAF, founded in 1886, has become one of North America’s largest manufacturers of commercial and residential roofing. Their products are known for durability and strength, and their Timberline series is one of the best-selling shingles in the country.
Understanding Owens Corning
Owens Corning, on the other hand, has been around since 1938 and has consistently been at the forefront of innovation in building materials. Known for their distinctive pink fiberglass insulation, they also offer a comprehensive range of roofing products that deliver both style and functionality. The Owens Corning Duration Shingles with SureNail Technology are especially celebrated for their performance and ease of installation.
Comparing The 5 Most Important Factors
Let’s look at some critical factors homeowners typically consider when selecting roofing shingles.
1) Durability
GAF: GAF shingles are well-regarded for their durability. Their Timberline HDZ series offers excellent protection against winds and harsh weather conditions. The company boasts its LayerLock Technology, which ensures better nailing accuracy and wind uplift resistance.
Owens Corning: Owens Corning shingles, particularly those with SureNail Technology, provide outstanding durability. This patented technology includes a woven-fabric nailing strip in the nailing area, ensuring enhanced grip and superior adhesion. Testing shows that Owens Corning shingles offer exceptional wind resistance, sustaining winds up to 130 mph.
Verdict
While both brands excel in durability, Owens Corning’s SureNail Technology gives it a slight edge, ensuring superior performance against strong winds and harsh weather conditions.
2) Aesthetics and Design
GAF: GAF offers a broad palette of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to find a shingle that perfectly matches their desired look. Their Timberline American Harvest series, for example, is known for rich color blends that enhance curb appeal.
Owens Corning: Owens Corning also offers a wide range of colors and styles, alongside the TruDefinition Color platform, which provides vibrant color that adds depth and dimension to your roof. The Oakridge and TruDefinition Duration series are particularly noted for their stunning visual appeal.
Verdict
Both brands offer impressive aesthetics, but Owens Corning takes it a step further with innovative color options and high-definition styles that allow for a more customized and attractive finish.
3) Warranty
GAF: GAF provides a lifetime limited warranty on many of their shingles, with specific terms depending on the series. They also offer the Golden Pledge Warranty, which includes 50 years of coverage on manufacturing defects and a 25-year workmanship warranty when installed by a GAF-certified contractor.
Owens Corning: Owens Corning offers outstanding warranties, including a limited lifetime warranty on most shingles. Their Platinum Protection Roofing System Warranty extends protection to 50 years on manufacturing defects and 25 years on workmanship when installed by an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor.
Verdict
The warranties offered by both GAF and Owens Corning are comparable and industry-leading. However, Owens Corning provides a slight advantage with their comprehensive Platinum Protection Warranty.
4) Environmental Impact
GAF: GAF has made strides in sustainability, with roofing shingles that incorporate recycled materials. They are committed to reducing waste through recycling initiatives and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
Owens Corning: Owens Corning stands out for its commitment to sustainability. Their roofing products are ENERGY STAR rated, ensuring energy efficiency and conservation. They also prioritize the use of sustainable materials and have been recognized for their leadership in environmental responsibility.
Verdict
Owens Corning’s dedication to sustainability and energy efficiency positions them as a leader in environmentally-conscious roofing, appealing to eco-friendly homeowners.
5) Cost
GAF: GAF shingles are competitively priced, offering a range of options to fit various budgets. Their Timberline series provides good value for money, balancing cost with quality and durability.
Owens Corning: Owens Corning shingles are similarly priced, with options that cater to different financial plans. They are known for providing exceptional value, particularly considering their durability, aesthetics, and extended warranties.
Verdict
Both brands are similarly priced. However, Owens Corning offers a slightly better overall value due to its superior performance features and warranty benefits.
Why Owens Corning Comes Out on Top
While both GAF and Owens Corning are excellent choices, Owens Corning holds a distinct advantage with its innovative SureNail Technology, superior color selection, robust warranty options, and strong commitment to sustainability. These factors ensure not only a beautiful and durable roof but also peace of mind for homeowners who value environmental responsibility and long-term performance.
SureNail Technology
One of the standout features of Owens Corning shingles is their SureNail Technology. This advanced feature enhances the durability and wind resistance of the shingles, providing a single, continuous fabric nailing zone for superior gripping power. Homeowners can rest assured that their roof can withstand severe weather conditions without compromising structural integrity.
Color and Design
Owens Corning’s TruDefinition Color technology goes beyond traditional color offerings, providing vibrant, high-definition hues that elevate the aesthetic appeal of any home. This technology allows for better contrast and dimension, resulting in a stunning roof that complements a wide range of architectural styles.
Sustainability Leadership
With an increasing emphasis on reducing environmental impact, Owens Corning has emerged as a leader in sustainable roofing. Their commitment to energy-efficient products and recycling initiatives showcases their dedication to minimizing the carbon footprint of construction materials.
Customer Satisfaction
Owens Corning consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys, a testament to their product quality, reliability, and service. Homeowners frequently praise the combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and value that Owens Corning shingles provide.
Get The Best Shingle Installation In Town
When considering new asphalt shingles for your next roofing project, Owens Corning emerges as the superior choice for homeowners seeking a blend of durability, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability. While both brands provide excellent roofing solutions, the added benefits of Owens Corning’s cutting-edge technology, vibrant designs, and commitment to the environment make it the preferred option for a long-lasting and beautiful roof.
Ready to transform your home with an Owens Corning roof? Contact a certified Owens Corning contractor at McCormick Renovations today to explore your options and start your roofing project with confidence. Invest in a roof that offers exceptional protection, aesthetic appeal, and peace of mind for years to come.
