When it comes to roof installation, quality is at a premium and premium shingles and roofing materials give your roof a long-lasting life. However, with all the roofing companies out there, who does it best? Today, we will be comparing GAF or Owens Corning shingles!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Shingles
When it comes to roofing shingles in our comparison, keep in mind that there is no one size fits all solution. Variables such as architectural design and nature of roofing system, geography and climate, among a few to name will largely determine what’s the best shingles for you! Shingles come in all shapes, sizes, and designs and serve as a line of roofing protection–choose wisely.
Owens Corning vs. GAF Roofing Shingles: Cost, Pros & Cons, and More
What Makes Owens Corning Duration and GAF Timberline Shingles So Popular?
If you look at Legacy Roofing’s “Our Shingles” page, you will see we use two main shingle brands. GAF and Owens Corning. There’s a reason why these two brands are industry leads and here’s why that is the case:
GAF Shingles
GAF shingles have incredible expertise, being in operation for more than 100 years, and currently is the second-largest manufacturer of roofing materials in North America. GAF shingles come with a patented fiberglass reinforcement technology in their composition, making them 30% stronger against wear and tear long term.
Owens corning shingles
OC Shingles also has been a roofing industry prowess for more than 100 years and is currently the leading roofing material manufacturer in North America as we speak. Owens corning shingles use its signature EverGuard technology, making them 50% more stronger against wear and tear than the average roofing shingle.
The Pros and Cons of GAF and Owens Corning Shingles
Owens Corning vs. GAF: Cost 💰
When comparing shingles costs and prices, keep in mind that material, supply and demand, and labor/expertise needed will influence the final result, but here is a general overview of the most affordable shingle cost using 3 tab shingles, architectural shingles, and premium shingles as an example.
3 Tab Shingles
- GAF shingles: $75-$127 per sqft
- OC Shingles: $75-$96 per sqft.
Architectural shingles
- GAF Shingles: $87-$225 per sqft
- OC Shingles: $75-$280 per sqft.
Premium shingles
- GAF Shingles: $150-$344
- OC Shingles: $180-$225 per sqft.
Note: Cost may not include starter shingles, hip and ridge cap shingles, trim and flashing, miscellaneous parts, etc.
Keeping variables into account, both are relatively the same in price per square foot, GAF shingles being slightly higher in price overall, but not by much. Also, using three-tab shingles in Boise Idaho isn’t a good idea (or anywhere in the country for that matter). Three tab shingles are easily impacted by weather.
When it comes to GAF timberline architectural shingles, its a more cost-effective choice in comparison with what Owens Corning offers in entry-level architectural shingles. On the other hand, for specialty shingles, Owens Corning offers more cheaper pricing for hail-resistant shingles like Owens Corning Duration shingles.
OC vs. GAF: Warranties 🤝
When it comes to warranty coverage, both GAF or Owens corning shingles are neck and neck, offering a 25 year limited warranty coverage on almost all shingle options in their inventory including algae and non-prorated warranties.
However, past this is where GAP shingles has the advantage over OC shingles in their golden pledge warranty. GAP timberline shingles offer greater wind warranties that are non-prorated for architectural shingles and premium shingles at 130+ mph wind, while Owens Corning goes only up to 110 mph.
GAF promises a lifetime roofing system while Owens Corning promises a tiered total protection roofing system as a good-faith gesture on behalf of their roofing contractors.
Owens Corning vs. GAF Shingle Roof: Which Roof Requires Less Maintenance?
When it comes to roof maintenance, both Owens Corning and GAF shingles are dead even in expert roofing installation, and high-quality shingles. They both offer impact resistant shingles designed to withstand all types of elements like extreme heat, ice/snow, rain, and wind. Both high-quality shingle brands also combat algae, mold, and mildew well.
GAF Timberline HDZ shingles vs. Owens Corning Duration Shingles
Both shingle options are the heavy hitters of each brand. Let’s Dive in!
GAF Timberline HDZ shingles have rare color options for unique aesthetic appeal, give off a natural finished look, and are incredibly durable long term. However, installation is complex and, therefore, will cost more on average to install. They also don’t have as many color options to choose from, mostly pertaining to lighter shades.
Owens corning duration shingles on the other hand is cost-effective and, due to low maintenance, don’t demand extra protection. Similarly, they durable and last long. However, like GAF Timberline HDZ shingles, they fall short in the options for lighter shades of color. Also, Owens Corning shingles have been known to be inconsistent in quality–be sure to double-check with your roofing contractor that the shingles you ordered are in fact Owens Corning shingles.
Where can I seek professional help?
When it comes to understanding roofing products, their design, use, and correct installation, remember this is not a DIY project as extensive expertise is required. Contact your local roofing contractor/roofing company and they will be more than happy to provide vital insight on next steps forward.
What’s the Verdict?
Luckily, here at Legacy Roofing of Boise Idaho, we use BOTH GAF and Owens Corning shingles. That means if you want one or the other so you can transform your house, you’re in luck!
Both GAF or Owens Corning shingles offer uniqueness in the form of quality, versatility, and reliability in their exterior roofing products. While I’m sure you were probably looking for a winner out of the two, the GAF vs. Owens Corning shingles debate is largely a subjective one.
Your house is different and requires different needs not what your neighbors do, and that settles it. When it doubt, consult a professional for more information. Will make all the difference!
The Roof Installation Process – From A to Z!
