How To Choose The Best Rated Shingle Brand
The roof of a home has been called the crowning jewel, and when selecting the best rated roof shingle brand it is important to ensure they offer excellent protection. One way to do that is by choosing architectural shingles, fiberglass shingles or Malarkey shingles.
Architectural shingles are heavier than traditional 3-tab shingles and provide better durability and wind resistance. They come with extra asphalt layers which add dimensional stability and visual shingle line appeal for an attractive look.
Fiberglass shingles contain glass fibers woven into them to make them more durable in extreme temperatures as well as providing insulation benefits.
Finally, Malarkey is specifically engineered for superior weather protection through their special coatings and double layer construction.
With so many options available on the market today, it’s essential to choose wisely according to personal taste and budget constraints. This article will review some of the best asphalt shingle brands that offer high quality solutions at competitive prices.
5 Top Rated Roof Shingle Brands And Styles
Certainteed
CertainTeed is one of the leading providers of architectural shingles in the roofing industry. With a long history of producing quality materials, CertainTeed has earned its place as an acclaimed provider and continues to stand out among other top rated shingle brands.
Related Article: Pros & Cons of CertainTeed Shingles & Costs
Consumer Reports recently ranked CertainTeed’s products highly for their durability and dependability, making them a popular choice amongst many homeowners across the country.
The company offers a wide range of shingle styles that can be adapted to fit any home aesthetic.
Their lines offer 3-tab asphalt shingles, designer laminated options, luxury dimensional designs, and impact resistant ones which are specially designed with granules that protect against hail damage.
Homeowners have access to various colors and patterns allowing them to customize their roofs according to individual tastes.
Related Article: GAF vs. CertainTeed Roofing Shingles | Pros & Cons
CertainTeed holds firmly to its commitment of providing reliable solutions for all types of homes. As such, they produce some of the most sought after products on the market today.
By offering high performance ratings at competitive prices, it’s no wonder why they remain one of the top choices when selecting a brand for your roofing needs. Transitioning into Atlas Shingles now…
Atlas
Atlas is a roofing materials manufacturer best known for its fiberglass shingles. The company has been producing quality roofing products since the early 1980s and offers several lines of shingles including Malarkey, Tamko Heritage, and Atlas Signature Select.
All of these varieties offer superior durability and protection against water damage, fire resistance, wind uplift prevention, and aesthetic appeal.
In addition to shingle lines, Atlas also manufactures synthetic underlayment membranes that are designed specifically for use with their own line of asphalt-based roof systems.
This provides an added layer of protection from moisture or other environmental elements that would otherwise be damaging to your home’s roof system if left unprotected.
The benefit of using Atlas’ products is twofold; firstly they provide exceptional performance in terms of longevity and weather protection while being cost efficient compared to similar competing brands; secondly they come with extensive warranties which can range anywhere up to 50 years depending on the product purchased.
Furthermore, all Atlas products are backed by a team of experienced professionals who can help homeowners choose the right solutions specific to their needs as well as assisting them with installation procedures should any issues arise during the process.
Gaf Materials Corporation
As the saying goes, “The roof over your head is one of the most important investments you will make” and GAF Materials Corporation has been making sure it’s done right for years. GAF Materials Corporation has been in business since 1886 and produces some of the best-rated asphalt shingles on the market.
Here are 3 reasons why:
Durability: GAF Materials Corporation produces long-lasting asphalt shingle that can withstand extreme weather conditions as well as wear and tear from day to day life.
Wind Resistance of Asphalt Shingles: The wind resistance rating of their products is unparalleled; they have achieved ratings such as Class 4 impact resistance or higher due to their industry leading technology.
Variety: Their selection includes a wide array of high quality designs with unique colors and textures so homeowners can find exactly what they need for any home project.
Related Article: GAF Shingles Buyers Guide | The Basics & Helpful Tips
GAF Materials Corporation continues to be an innovator in the roofing industry by continuously improving their product line with new technologies and services.
They strive to provide only the highest quality materials at competitive prices, giving customers peace of mind about their investment in a sturdy, reliable roof.
With such commitment to excellence, it comes as no surprise that GAF remains one of the top choices when it comes to installing a new roof. Transiting into Owens Corning now…
Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a prominent roof shingle brand that provides high-quality products and services to homeowners, builders, and roofing contractors.
The company offers several lines of tab shingles that come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing customers to customize the look of their home or building.
Related Article: Owens Corning vs. GAF Roofing Shingles
Owens Corning also produces other types of roofing products such as underlayment, ventilation systems, flashing materials, and accessories. Their dedication to quality assurance ensures that all their products meet industry standards for safety and performance.
Additionally, they offer warranties on select items so customers can feel confident in their purchase knowing they are covered if something goes wrong with the product.
With these features combined with reliable customer service, it’s no wonder why Owens Corning remains one of the top brands when it comes to choosing the best roof shingle option for your project.
Tamko Roofing Products
Tamko Roofing Products is a shingle manufacturer that offers many options for home and commercial roofing. This company has been in business since 1944, making it one of the oldest shingle manufacturers in the industry.
Related Article: Tamko vs. Owens Corning Roofing Shingles
Tamko’s products range from affordable 3-tab asphalt shingles to luxury architectural designs with various colors and textures.
They also offer energy-efficient insulation systems as well as an array of other accessories such as ridge vents, sealing tapes, and flashing materials.
The company prides itself on producing quality roofing solutions while maintaining affordability.
In addition to their standard offerings, Tamko also provides speciality lines such as Heritage Premium Vintage Shingles which give roofs a unique look reminiscent of classic cedar shake styling without sacrificing performance or durability.
Their StormMaster Slate line combines the natural beauty of slate tiles with modern technology to create a product that can withstand extreme weather conditions while providing superior protection against hail damage and wind uplift.
Tamko’s lifetime limited warranty ensures customers will be covered if any issues arise after installation due to manufacturing defects or improper installation procedures by contractors – giving homeowners peace of mind when selecting this brand for their next project.
Best Shingles For The Money
When it comes to roofing, cost is always a consideration. You want the best shingles for the money you’re spending. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing products on the market due to their relatively low upfront and maintenance costs. However, when selecting an asphalt shingle roofing product, there are several factors that can affect your overall cost: materials, labor, and installation.
The type of asphalt shingle you choose will largely determine how much material cost you will incur. There are many brands and styles available in different colors and textures; some more expensive than others.
The amount of labor required for installation will also be a factor in pricing out your project. A qualified roofing contractor should provide accurate estimates before any work begins.
Installation is another key factor affecting the total expense of your roofing project. Professional installation by a certified roofer is recommended to ensure that the job is done right and lasting results achieved.
In addition, proper ventilation must be taken into account so as not to cause issues down the line with moisture buildup or other potential problems related to climate conditions in your area.
Transitions from this section about Cost Considerations lead us directly into our discussion about Climate Considerations which we’ll explore further next….
Climate Considerations
When selecting roof shingles, it is important to take into account the climate of the region where they will be installed.
Consumer reports indicate that asphalt shingles are optimal in areas with moderate temperatures and low wind speeds due to their high resistance against strong winds. In humid climates, slate shingles provide an ideal solution as they are known for their durability and longevity.
Further, when exposed to extreme weather conditions such as hail or rainstorms, asphalt and slate shingles both perform well while providing a visually appealing aesthetic.
The type of roof shingle also plays a significant role in how well it withstands different types of weather elements.
Asphalt is considered more durable than other materials because its material makeup allows for better flexibility under pressure from wind gusts or ice accumulation during cold winter months.
Slate on the other hand provides superior protection from heavy storms but may not hold up as well over time if not properly maintained or sealed regularly.
In addition to choosing a suitable material for your area’s climate, additional factors must be taken into consideration such as potential damage caused by UV rays, salt exposure near coastal regions, and air pollution concentrations which can all reduce the lifespan and performance of certain types of roof shingles. Moving forward to installation process…
Installation Process
As the old adage goes, “Measure twice and cut once”; this same principle should be applied when installing best roof shingles.
To ensure a proper installation process, it is critical to accurately measure the surface of the roof where the shingles will be laid down. With careful preparation and planning, an experienced contractor can properly install your new roof in no time flat.
The first step in installing best roof shingles is to remove any existing material from the area that needs re-shingling. This includes removing all nails, staples, or other debris from the exposed surface area.
Afterward, inspect for water damage or signs of rot before laying down felt paper on top of the exposed plywood base layer beneath the shingles. The felt paper acts as a barrier between the wood deck and prevents moisture seepage into your home’s attic space.
Next comes laying down row after row of individual asphalt shingle pieces onto the prepared surface area according to manufacturer guidelines.
Special attention must be given to overlap each piece by at least one inch while also making sure not to leave gaps between them; both problems can cause future leaks if left unchecked.
Once every single piece has been precisely placed onto the roof’s surface area with accurate measurements taken into consideration, use a nail gun around each side of each roof tile to secure each one tightly against its neighbors and avoid further issues caused by wind-driven rain or snow accumulation during harsher weather conditions throughout winter months ahead.
Carrying out these steps in order guarantees a successful installation process that will provide you peace of mind and security against whatever Mother Nature throws your way—transitioning smoothly into maintenance requirements necessary for best roof shingles longevity over years to come.
Maintenance Requirements
Roof shingles require periodic maintenance in order to remain effective and efficient. Maintenance includes inspecting the roof regularly, cleaning it of debris, replacing missing or damaged pieces, and sealing any cracks that may occur over time.
The following table provides an overview of the recommended frequency for certain maintenance tasks:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Yearly |
| Cleaning | Bi-annually |
| Replacement | As needed |
| Sealing | Annually |
It is important to follow these guidelines set forth by shingle manufacturers in order to maintain your roof’s integrity. Regular inspections will help identify potential problems early on before they become more serious issues requiring costly repairs or replacements.
Additionally, keeping up with regular cleaning will ensure that no debris is blocking water from draining properly off the roof surface which can lead to further damage down the road.
Lastly, resealing when necessary helps protect against wear and tear caused by harsh weather conditions and keeps moisture out of vulnerable areas such as around flashing or seals between layers of shingles.
Taking these steps allows homeowners a sense of freedom knowing their home is secure from potential damage due to lack of proper upkeep.
The next section discusses the pros and cons associated with different types of materials used in roof systems in greater detail so readers have all the information they need to make informed decisions about their roofs.
Pros And Cons Of Different Shingles On The Market
Having discussed the maintenance requirements for roof shingles, it is now time to consider the advantages and disadvantages of different materials.
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice among homeowners because they have various benefits such as:
Durability – Asphalt shingles are designed to be strong and durable in all weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for any climate.
Cost-Effective – Asphalt shingles come with a low initial cost and require less ongoing maintenance than other types of roofing material throughout its lifespan.
Variety – There are many styles, colors, and textures available when it comes to asphalt shingles that allow you to customize your home’s exterior aesthetic.
Easy Installation – Asphalt shingle roofs can be installed quickly by experienced professionals with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Eco-Friendly – Most asphalt shingles contain recycled content which helps reduce environmental impact.
In addition to these benefits, there are some drawbacks associated with asphalt shingle roofs including their susceptibility to damage from extreme temperatures or high winds as well as their tendency to fade over time due to exposure to ultraviolet light.
They also do not provide much insulation so if energy efficiency is important to you then another type of roof may be more suitable.
Fire Resistance Ratings For Shingles
When it comes to roof shingles, fire resistance is an important consideration. There are four ratings of fire resistance – class A, B, C and D – that measure the performance of roof shingles in a simulated fire test.
Class A indicates superior performance, while classes B and C indicate good or average performance respectively.
The worst rating is class D which indicates poor performance. It’s worth noting that not all types of roof shingles have been tested; however, most manufacturers provide information on the fire-resistance properties of their products.
Class A rated roof shingles are generally made from fiberglass coated with asphalt and mineral fillers such as talc or mica.
This combination makes them highly resistant to flame spread and gives them excellent protection against high temperatures.
On the other hand, Class B-rated roof shingles are typically made from organic materials such as wood fibers combined with asphalt and mineral filler agents. They offer moderate protection against flame spread but can still be vulnerable at higher temperatures.
Classes C and D rated roof shingles usually consist of untreated organic materials like wood fibers or cellulose combined with asphalt and no additional filling agent for improved strength or durability.
While these may be cost effective options, they tend to lack adequate heat resistance when exposed to intense fires.
Fire-resistant roof systems should also include proper ventilation solutions that help reduce the risk of attic fires due to overheating caused by inadequate air circulation within attics or roofs spaces.
Ventilation installation must comply with local building codes so that any potential hazards associated with combustible dust build up in hidden areas are addressed before installing new roof shingles.
Benefits Of Colorful Shingles
The use of colorful shingles provides several benefits to residential and commercial customers. Colorful shingles can increase the curb appeal of a property, making it more attractive from both inside and out.
The vibrant colors of these shingles also provide an added layer of protection for the roof, helping to reflect heat away from the structure and providing better insulation against extreme weather conditions. In addition, this type of shingle is also highly durable and requires little maintenance over its lifetime.
Colorful shingles come in many shades and textures allowing homeowners or businesses to customize their building’s exterior look according to individual preferences.
By choosing certain hues that complement other elements on a property such as trim color, window frames or siding, one can create a unique appearance with just the right amount of charm.
Furthermore, by opting for lighter colored roof shingles they are able to reduce cooling costs during summer months due to the reflective properties mentioned above.
These advantages make colorful roof shingles an excellent choice for any homeowner or business owner looking for a way to update their property without breaking the bank.
With minimal effort and cost involved, there is no reason why anyone should not consider adding some extra pizzazz to their rooftop with these stylish yet reliable options available today.
Transition into next section: Choosing the right contractor for installation is important when considering new roof shingles; finding someone who has experience in installing them properly will ensure longevity and satisfaction with your updated home improvement project.
Choosing The Right Contractor For Installation
Finding a reliable contractor to install roof shingles is an important decision. It’s important to take the time necessary to research contractors and be sure that they are experienced and qualified for the job. Here are some tips on how to choose the right contractor for your project:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Check References | Ask potential contractors for references from past clients, as well as proof of insurance coverage and licensing. Make sure you follow up with these contacts so you can get a better understanding of what kind of experience other customers have had with the contractor. |
| Get Estimates | Request estimates from at least three different contractors before making any decisions. Compare prices, materials used, services offered, warranties provided, and estimated completion dates when evaluating each estimate. |
| Read Reviews & Ratings | Check out reviews online or in local magazines or newspapers to get independent feedback about various contractors’ workmanship and customer service. Also look into their ratings with organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB). |
| Consider Experience & Qualifications | Before hiring a contractor, make sure they have extensive knowledge of roof installation and also check that they use quality products that come with good warranty protection against defects in material or workmanship. Additionally, it’s essential that they hold all relevant licenses needed for working in your area. |
In sum, finding the right contractor requires time and effort but ultimately will save money and ensure satisfaction after installation is complete.
The key is researching thoroughly beforehand to identify reputable professionals who offer superior craftsmanship along with exceptional customer service.
Warranties and guarantees provide additional assurance that both product performance standards and installation practices meet industry standards.
Warranties And Guarantees
When it comes to roof shingles, warranties and guarantees play an integral part in the decision-making process.
On average, most residential roofs are covered by a 20 year warranty on materials with an additional 5 years for labor costs.
This kind of coverage provides homeowners with financial protection against any damages or problems that may arise from manufacturing defects or poor workmanship.
Here are some important highlights to consider when assessing various roof shingle warranties:
Length of Coverage – Most manufacturers offer 10-50 year limited warranties that provide material defect protection and sometimes even installation errors. It is also worth noting that many companies will allow you to upgrade your warranty length if needed.
Transferable Warranty – Some companies offer transferable warranties which can be beneficial if you plan on selling your home within the timeframe of the warranty period.
Types of Damage Covered – Many manufacturers cover only manufacturer’s defects while others include damage caused by extreme weather conditions such as hail storm and windstorms.
Exclusions – Be sure to read through all exclusions and limitations listed on each warranty before making a final decision as this will help ensure you are fully protected should any issues arise down the road.
It’s essential to research different products to determine which ones best meet your needs and budget before investing in new roof shingles.
Additionally, understanding what types of damage are covered under each specific product’s warranty is paramount since not all manufacturers offer the same type of coverage or lengths of protection.
Making sure these details are properly considered can save you time and money in the long run should any future repairs become necessary due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Roof Shingles Typically Last?
Roof shingles are a popular choice for homeowners looking to protect their home from the elements. But how long do roof shingles typically last? It is important for property owners to understand the lifespan of roof shingles in order to make an informed decision when selecting a material for their roof replacement or repair project.
The longevity of roof shingles can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as climate and weather conditions, quality of installation, level of maintenance, and type of material used.
Generally speaking, asphalt-based asphalt shingle roofs have an average life expectancy between 12-20 years while metal roofs may last up to 50 years or more with proper care and maintenance. In addition, other types of materials like wood shakes, slate tiles, and clay tiles can range anywhere between 20-100+ years.
In any case, it is essential that property owners take time to research all available options before settling on which kind of shingle they would like to use on their home or business’ roof.
While some materials may come with longer lifespans than others, each individual should also consider their own budget needs as well as how much upkeep will be required in order to ensure the maximum life span possible for their chosen product.
With careful consideration and attention paid to these factors, those seeking freedom from worry about their roofs will be able to select a reliable option that meets both their needs and provides lasting protection against the elements.
What Type Of Roof Shingles Are The Most Durable?
When it comes to roof shingles, durability is of utmost importance. As such, a homeowner or builder needs to know what type of material will provide the best protection from weather and other elements over time.
There are several different types of roof shingle materials that offer varying levels of durability, and each has its own merits and drawbacks when compared to others.
The first type of roof shingle worth considering for maximum durability is asphalt-based shingles. These products have been around for many years and can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance.
They also come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their home’s exterior design aesthetic.
The downside is they tend to be more expensive than other options on the market due to the higher quality components used in production.
Another popular option among those looking for durable roof shingles is metal. Metal roofs are known to be extremely long lasting – some estimates suggest they could last up to 50+ years!
This makes them an attractive choice as they require less frequent upkeep than asphalt-based shingles; however, they can be quite costly upfront due to installation costs alone.
Additionally, metal may not fit into certain aesthetics depending on the look you’re going for with your home’s exterior design.
Finally, slate tiles are another excellent option if longevity is what you seek in terms of roof shingle material selection: these tiles often boast warranties between 75-100 years!
However, there are downsides here too – namely cost (slate tends to be very pricey) plus labor requirements needed for installation which might take longer than other materials mentioned above due to weight restrictions imposed by local building codes.
For those seeking ultimate peace of mind regarding their residential roof structure, selecting a suitable roofing material should include considerations like performance ratings relative to climate conditions in addition weighing factors such as lifespan and cost efficiency against personal preferences surrounding aesthetics and budget constraints.
Ultimately this decision will depend upon individual household circumstances but understanding what materials offer highest degree of long term resistance against wear & tear can help narrow down choices when faced with so many available options today:
• Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Long lasting (upwards 20-25 year life span), affordable yet limited color palette/design potential.
• Metal Roofs: Extremely strong & resistant (50+ year lifespan typically); high end price tag & specialized installation techniques required.
• Slate Tiles: Highly resilient (75-100 year warranty sometimes offered); prohibitively expensive upfront investment & extended labor demands.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Roof Shingles?
Cleaning roof shingles is an essential part of keeping them in good condition and preserving their longevity.
However, it’s important to be aware that not all cleaning methods are equal when it comes to shingle care. It is therefore beneficial to understand the best way to clean roof shingles so that they will remain in great shape for years to come.
One of the most effective ways to clean roof shingles is with a soft brush and mild detergent mixed with warm water. This combination can help break down dirt, debris, mold, and other contaminants without damaging the integrity of the surface material.
Additionally, using a garden hose set on its lowest pressure setting can aid in rinsing away any remaining residue from the cleaning process.
When performing this type of manual cleaning method, extra caution should be taken as too much scrubbing or high-pressure hosing can cause damage to certain types of roof shingles.
It may also be necessary to use specialized products specifically designed for roofs if more stubborn stains or buildups occur such as algae or moss growths.
These special cleaners are generally safe for use on various materials but should still be applied cautiously according to manufacturer instructions.
Professional services may also be available depending on location which could provide additional assistance while ensuring proper application techniques are used both safely and effectively.
Cleaning roof shingles regularly ensures optimal results by preventing further buildup and allowing homeowners peace of mind knowing their investment remains protected over time.
With careful attention given to appropriate procedures and maintenance schedules these steps can be implemented easily while providing long lasting benefits throughout the life cycle of a property’s roof system.
Is It Necessary To Use A Contractor For Installing Roof Shingles?
When it comes to installing roof shingles, the question of whether a contractor is necessary or not can be an important one.
On the one hand, using a professional for this task can provide peace of mind that the job was done correctly and safely.
On the other hand, there are instances where hiring outside help may not actually be needed.
To determine if you should hire someone to install your roof shingles or do it yourself, consider these points:
1. Obtain building permits – Depending on local regulations in your area, obtaining a permit before any construction project may be required by law.
2. Choose appropriate materials – Knowing what type of material best suits your home and climate is key when selecting roof shingles.
3. Assess safety risks – As with any DIY project involving heights, proper safety precautions must be taken into account prior to beginning work.
4. Have knowledge of installation process – If you plan to tackle the installation yourself then having familiarity with how-to instructions and videos is essential for success without costly mistakes being made along the way.
By weighing each factor carefully and making sure you have all the necessary tools at hand, you will better equipped to decide if going through a professional contractor is truly worth it or if tackling the job alone makes more sense financially and practically speaking.
It’s also possible that some parts of the job could be done by yourself while another part might require expert assistance such as dealing with electrical wiring issues related to adding new light fixtures or skylights onto rooftops during installation projects..
In either case though, taking time to assess both sides thoroughly beforehand will provide clarity when deciding which path to take when installing roof shingles for your home improvement needs.
Conclusion
Roof shingles are an important element in the structural integrity of any home. By understanding how long they typically last and what type is best for your needs, you can ensure that your roof will continue to provide protection for years to come.
Regular cleaning of the surface helps extend its life further, while utilizing a professional contractor when installing new shingles guarantees proper installation and adherence to safety protocols such as walking on the roof with appropriate footgear.
The quality of material used is also key in determining longevity; high-grade asphalt shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and offer superior durability compared to other options.
The colorfastness or fade resistance of these shingles should be considered too, ensuring it retains its original look over time even under intense sunlight exposure.
When all these factors have been taken into account, homeowners can rest assured knowing their roofs are well protected from the elements – like battle armor ready to face any challenge coming its way.
By carefully selecting the right kind of shingle for your particular environment and taking necessary precautions during installation and maintenance, one can enjoy peace of mind knowing their house is sheltered from whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Armed with this knowledge, owners can choose wisely when deciding which roof system is best suited for them – lasting comfort beneath a blanket of sturdy dependability.
