Comparing Shingle Manufacturers: 3 Key Considerations
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles remain a popular choice for homeowners across the globe. Offering durability, affordability, and versatility, asphalt shingles come in a wide array of styles, colors, and compositions.
However, with so many options available from different manufacturers, comparing asphalt shingles can be overwhelming. But fear not! Rescue My Roof is here to help.
Rescue My Roof has been a leading educator and contractor in the roofing industry for over a decade. We’ve helped thousands of homeowners find their forever-shingle. And today, we’ve curated a guide to help you find the right shingle manufacturer for your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when comparing asphalt shingles (and their manufacturers) to help you make an informed decision for your roofing project. Ultimately, you’ll know how to find the perfect shingle for your roof replacement.
3 Key Considerations When Comparing Shingle Manufacturers
There are a lot of shingle manufacturers out there, among them being Atlas, GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning.
All four manufacturers have a comparable line of shingles – so how do you narrow it down?
While all dimensional (architectural) shingle lines have some similarities, there are specifications that will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. These differences fall into three categories: durability, price, and warranties.
Let’s take a closer look at how these differences impact your decision:
Durability
Assessing the durability and performance of asphalt shingles is crucial for ensuring long-term protection for your home. We can break down a shingle’s durability into four categories: weight, wind resistance, impact rating, and algae resistance.
Weight: Heavier shingles, often made of high-quality materials, tend to be more durable and resilient, withstanding harsh weather conditions like heavy rain or snow. Lightweight shingles might be more susceptible to wear and tear, especially in areas prone to severe weather.
The heavier a shingle is, the more protection your home will get against severe weather. If you live in an area prone to storms, going with a heavier shingle will go a long way to protecting your home. In the long run, it could save you thousands in repair costs.
Wind Resistance: Shingles are rated for their ability to withstand specific wind speeds, and overall wind resistance is a critical consideration, especially in regions prone to hurricanes or strong winds.
Ensure that the shingles you’re considering have a wind resistance rating aligned with prevalent weather conditions. Look for shingles tested and certified to withstand high wind speeds, providing necessary protection during storms.
Impact Rating: The impact rating measures shingles’ resistance to hail and other impacts, with a higher rating indicating better protection.
Again, if you live in an area with severe weather, the impact rating will be a determining factor in protecting your home and maximizing the roof’s lifespan. Do your due diligence and look into a manufacturer’s impact rating to get the ultimate home protection.
Algae Resistance: Algae resistance is vital for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your roof. In humid climates, shingles are susceptible to algae growth, causing discoloration. Many manufacturers offer algae-resistant shingles treated with coatings to inhibit growth.
Do you want to keep your roof looking sharp for a lifetime? Go with a manufacturer that not only provides algae protection, but offers an algae resistance warranty.
Price
While budget is a significant consideration, it’s essential to strike a balance between cost and quality.
Investing in a quality product could potentially save you thousands in future repair costs, especially since cheaper shingles often lead to lower quality.
When evaluating prices from various manufacturers, ensure a fair comparison by matching similar products. For instance, compare Atlas’ midline architectural shingle (Pinnacle) with the equivalent midline architectural offering from Owens Corning (Duration). This approach provides a more accurate understanding of the value and performance each product brings to the table.
Warranties
After your roof is installed, you’ll have two types of warranties to protect your investment. The first warranty will be on the workmanship of the roofing contractor you hire.
The length of your workmanship warranty depends on the local roofing contractor you hire and varies from company to company. They range from 2, 5, 10, 25 years, or even a lifetime warranty.
Remember, you need to look for a roofing contractor that offers a lifetime warranty or close to it. If they don’t offer at least a 10-year workmanship warranty, don’t think about hiring them.
The second warranty is on the roofing materials themselves, provided by the manufacturer. Each roofing material offers a different type of material warranty.
For example, asphalt shingles come out of the package with a warranty from the manufacturer. On the other hand, metal roofs come with a warranty on the painted finish that protects the metal panels.
Additionally, different manufacturers provide varying warranty terms covering aspects like material defects, wind damage, and algae resistance. As an Atlas-certified contractor, we’re able to offer lifetime wind and algae resistance warranties, which differs from other manufacturers/contractors who only offer 10-20 years.
Pay attention to the length and comprehensiveness of the warranties offered, as this can significantly impact the long-term cost and peace of mind associated with your roofing investment.
How to Determine the Best Shingle Manufacturer
In the quest to find the perfect shingles for your home, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right manufacturer. After thorough research and consideration of various factors such as composition, style, durability, energy efficiency, and budget, choosing a reputable shingle manufacturer is the final piece of the puzzle.
Ultimately, the right shingle manufacturer is one that aligns with your values, meets your specific needs and preferences, and inspires confidence in the quality and reliability of their products. By carefully evaluating your options and considering all aspects of the decision, you can choose a manufacturer that will deliver superior shingles and peace of mind for years to come.
Take the next step in your journey by finding the right contractor. Learn more with “10 Qualities to Look for in a Roofing Contractor” and “Roofing Contractors to Avoid.”Are you looking for a roofing contractor in southeastern Wisconsin? Rescue My Roof is a platinum-level Atlas certified contractor. Contact us today to get a free estimate.