GAF vs Owens Corning: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing the right roofing materials for your home is a critical decision that impacts both the aesthetic appeal and the functional durability of your property. Two of the most well-regarded brands in the roofing industry are GAF and Owens Corning. Both offer high-quality products, but there are distinct differences between the two that could influence your decision based on your specific needs. In this article, we will compare the key aspects of GAF vs Owens Corning, including:

• Brand overview
• Comparing shingle options
• Comparing material quality and durability
• Comparing warranties
• Comparing costs
• Comparing performance in different climates
• Comparing sustainability and environmental impact
• Comparing installation and contractor network
• Comparing aesthetic appeal and customization

Brand Overview

GAF

GAF (General Aniline & Film) is a prominent player in the roofing industry, with a history dating back over 130 years. GAF is known for its innovation and commitment to quality, making it a popular choice among contractors and homeowners alike. The company offers a wide range of roofing products, including asphalt shingles, commercial roofing systems, and roofing accessories.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning, established in 1938, is another industry leader, particularly recognized for its advancements in fiberglass technology. The company produces a variety of building materials, including insulation, composite solutions, and roofing shingles. Owens Corning is celebrated for its dedication to sustainability and energy efficiency, which is reflected in its product offerings.

8 Product Comparisons

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a detailed comparison of eight key comparisons between GAF and Owens Corning. This will provide insights into the features, benefits, and performance of each product, ensuring you select the best roofing solution for your home.

👉 1. Comparing Shingle Options

GAF Shingles

GAF provides a diverse selection of shingles, catering to different budgets and aesthetic preferences. Some of the popular GAF shingle lines include:

• Timberline® HDZ™: Known for its exceptional durability and beautiful wood-shake appearance, Timberline HDZ shingles feature LayerLock™ technology for enhanced wind resistance.
• Glenwood®: These premium shingles offer a triple-layer design for added thickness and a distinctive look that mimics wood shakes.
• Royal Sovereign®: A more budget-friendly option, Royal Sovereign shingles provide reliable performance and a traditional 3-tab design.

Owens Corning Shingles

Owens Corning offers a similarly comprehensive range of shingles, known for their performance and aesthetic appeal. Key Owens Corning shingle lines include:

• Duration® Series: Featuring SureNail® Technology, these shingles are known for their superior wind resistance and easy installation.
• Oakridge®: A mid-range option, Oakridge shingles offer a blend of performance and value with a variety of color choices.
• Supreme®: A cost-effective 3-tab shingle that provides reliable protection and a classic look.

💪 2. Comparing Material Quality and Durability

GAF

GAF shingles are known for their high quality and advanced technologies. The Timberline HDZ line, for example, is renowned for its LayerLock™ technology, which helps shingles resist high winds. Additionally, GAF shingles often feature StainGuard® protection to prevent algae growth, ensuring the roof maintains its appearance over time.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning shingles are also highly regarded for their quality and durability. The Duration series with SureNail® Technology provides enhanced grip and wind resistance, making these shingles less likely to blow off during storms. Owens Corning also emphasizes algae resistance with their StreakGuard™ Protection, which helps keep roofs looking clean and free of discoloration.

📑 3. Comparing Warranties

Warranties are a crucial factor when choosing roofing materials, as they offer peace of mind and protect your investment.

GAF Warranties

GAF offers several warranty options, which vary depending on the product and installation method:

• GAF Limited Lifetime Warranty: This basic warranty covers manufacturing defects for the lifetime of the shingles. It includes 10 years of non-prorated coverage.
• System Plus Warranty: This enhanced warranty covers both manufacturing defects and workmanship errors for 50 years, provided the shingles are installed by a GAF certified contractor.
• Golden Pledge® Warranty: GAF’s premium warranty, available only through Master Elite® contractors, offers 50 years of coverage on materials and 25 years on workmanship, including tear-off and disposal costs.

Owens Corning Warranties

Owens Corning also provides several warranty options to suit different needs:

• Standard Product Limited Warranty: This basic warranty covers manufacturing defects for the lifetime of the shingles, with 10 years of TruPROtection® non-prorated coverage.
• System Protection Roofing Limited Warranty: This warranty extends coverage to include all Owens Corning roofing components and offers 50 years of coverage on materials when installed by a certified contractor.
• Platinum Protection Roofing System Limited Warranty: Owens Corning’s most comprehensive warranty, available through Platinum Preferred Contractors, covers materials for 50 years and workmanship for 25 years, including tear-off and disposal costs.

💵 4. Comparing Costs

Cost is often a determining factor in choosing between GAF shingles and Owens Corning shingles. While prices can vary based on location, contractor, and specific product lines, some general trends can be noted.

GAF

GAF shingles tend to be competitively priced, with options available for various budget levels. For example:

• Timberline® HDZ™: Approximately $100-$150 per square (100 square feet).
• Glenwood®: Around $200-$300 per square due to their premium quality.
• Royal Sovereign®: More budget-friendly at approximately $70-$90 per square.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning shingles are similarly priced, with some variations based on the specific line:

• Duration® Series: Generally costs around $90-$140 per square.
• Oakridge®: Mid-range pricing at approximately $80-$120 per square.
• Supreme®: Budget option costing about $60-$80 per square.

🌤️ 5. Comparing Performance in Different Climates

The performance of roofing shingles can vary based on the climate in which they are installed. Here’s how GAF and Owens Corning shingles compare in different environmental conditions:

GAF

• Cold Climates: GAF shingles, particularly those with Advanced Protection® Shingle Technology, perform well in cold climates due to their durability and resistance to cracking.
• Hot Climates: GAF’s Cool Series® shingles are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat buildup, making them ideal for hot climates.
• High Wind Areas: With their LayerLock™ technology, GAF shingles offer superior wind resistance, making them a reliable choice in hurricane-prone regions.

Owens Corning

• Cold Climates: Owens Corning shingles, such as the Duration series, feature SureNail® Technology that enhances their durability in cold weather by preventing blow-offs and cracking.
• Hot Climates: Owens Corning offers shingles with COOL Roofing Technology that helps reflect solar energy and reduce heat absorption, ideal for hot climates.
• High Wind Areas: The SureNail® Technology in Owens Corning shingles provides excellent wind resistance, making them suitable for areas prone to high winds and storms.

🌱 6. Comparing Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Both GAF and Owens Corning have made strides in sustainability and reducing their environmental impact.

GAF

GAF is committed to sustainability through initiatives like the Certified Green Roofer™ Program and the use of recycled materials in their products. The company’s products are designed to be energy-efficient, and many are ENERGY STAR® certified, helping homeowners reduce their energy consumption.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship. The company has received numerous accolades for its sustainability efforts, including being named to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index. Owens Corning’s shingles often incorporate recycled content, and their products are designed to improve energy efficiency, with many being ENERGY STAR® certified.

👨‍🔧 7. Comparing Installation and Contractor Network

The quality of installation can significantly impact the performance and longevity of roofing shingles. Both GAF and Owens Corning have extensive networks of certified contractors to ensure proper installation.

GAF

GAF offers a robust certification program for contractors, including the prestigious Master Elite® certification. Master Elite® contractors are rigorously trained and must meet stringent standards to ensure high-quality installations. Choosing a GAF Master Elite® contractor can provide homeowners with access to the best warranties and peace of mind that their roof will be installed correctly.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning has a similar certification program, with the Platinum Preferred Contractor designation being the highest level. Platinum Preferred Contractors are selected based on their commitment to excellence, customer service, and professional craftsmanship. Homeowners who choose an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor can also benefit from the most comprehensive warranty options available.

🏘️ 8. Comparing Aesthetic Appeal and Customization

Both GAF and Owens Corning offer a wide range of shingle styles and colors, allowing homeowners to customize the look of their roofs to complement their home’s architecture.

GAF

GAF shingles are available in various styles, from traditional 3-tab to architectural and designer shingles. The Timberline® HDZ™ line, for instance, offers a wood-shake look, while the Glenwood® line provides a high-end, triple-layer design. GAF also offers a broad palette of colors, ensuring homeowners can find the perfect match for their home.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning also provides a diverse selection of shingles, with options ranging from the classic 3-tab Supreme® shingles to the architecturally appealing Duration® series. Owens Corning shingles come in a wide array of colors, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired look and enhance their home’s curb appeal.

Choosing the Right Roofing System: GAF vs. Owens Corning

Choosing between GAF and Owens Corning ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. At Shingle And Metal Roofs, we understand that both Owens Corning and GAF offer high-quality roofing solutions, and we’re here to help you make the best choice for your home. Our experienced team will guide you through the selection process, taking into account your preferences for style, color, and specific product features.

When you work with Shingle And Metal Roofs, you can trust that you’re getting expert advice and top-notch service. Let our certified contractors provide the insights you need to make an informed decision and ensure you get the best roofing system for your home.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your roofing project!