Why do we believe that the GAF shingles are a popular choice among homeowners and roofing contractors? Is it due to their durability, reliability, and attractive appearance? There are several types of GAF shingles available, each with their own unique features and benefits.
Who is GAF?
First off let’s start of by exploring who is GAF and where they came from?
GAF is a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing products in North America. The company was founded in 1886 and is headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey. GAF is known for producing a wide range of roofing products, including shingles, tiles, and low-slope roofing systems, as well as related products such as ventilation, insulation, and decking.
GAF has a strong reputation for producing high-quality, durable products that are designed to stand up to the elements and provide long-lasting protection for homes and buildings. The company is also known for its commitment to innovation, and has developed several proprietary technologies, such as Advanced Protection Technology, that are designed to improve the performance of its products.
GAF is one of the largest roofing manufacturers in the United States, and its products are available through a network of authorized dealers, distributors, and contractors across the country.
The company is also a member of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and it is certified by the Cool Roof Rating Council, which certifies roofing products that meet certain standards for reflectivity and emissivity.
What are the different types of shingles?
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Timberline HDZ Shingles (Most popular)
These shingles are GAF’s most popular product, and for good reason. They are made with advanced color-blending technology, making them look like natural wood shingles. They also feature a unique shadow effect that adds depth and dimension to the roof. Timberline HD shingles are also highly durable, with a Class A fire rating and a lifetime limited warranty.
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Timberline American Harvest Shingles (Fancy colors)
These shingles are designed to look like natural cedar shakes and provide a rustic, natural look to any home. They are made with a unique blend of colors that mimic the natural variations found in cedar shakes, and feature a heavy-weight design for added durability.
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Timberline Ultra HD Shingles (Thicker shingles)
These shingles are the thickest and most durable shingles offered by GAF. They feature a multi-layer design that provides extra protection against wind and weather. They also have a Class A fire rating and a lifetime limited warranty.
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Glenwood Shingles (Fancy shingles)
These shingles are designed to mimic the look of natural slate shingles. They are made with a unique blend of colors that mimic the natural variations found in slate, and feature a heavy-weight design for added durability.
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Camelot II Shingles (Fancier shingles)
These shingles are designed to mimic the look of natural clay tile shingles. They are made with a unique blend of colors that mimic the natural variations found in clay tile, and feature a heavy-weight design for added durability.
What is StainGuard Plus?
Stainguard Plus is a feature that is included on some roof shingles. It is designed to help resist the growth of blue-green algae and other stains on the shingles. The algae, known as Gloeocapsa Magma, are known to grow in warm, humid climates, and can cause unsightly black streaks on the roof.
The Stainguard Plus feature is a factory-applied treatment that is applied to the shingles before they are installed on the roof. The treatment creates a barrier that prevents the algae from taking hold of the shingles, helping to maintain the shingles’ appearance and prolong their lifespan.
Stainguard Plus is an optional feature that can be added to GAF shingles, it is not included in all GAF shingles, so it’s important to check if the shingles you are considering have this feature before making a purchase. It’s also worth noting that Stainguard Plus does not prevent stains caused by other sources such as moss, lichen, or dirt. Therefore, it’s important to keep your roof clean and maintain it regularly.
Pros of using GAF Roofing Shingles
Durability: GAF shingles are made with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting protection for your home.
Aesthetics: GAF shingles are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns, which can help enhance the overall appearance of your home.
Energy efficiency: Some GAF shingles are designed to reflect the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler, which can help reduce energy costs.
Fire resistance: Many GAF shingles have a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating possible, indicating that they can withstand severe exposure to fire.
Warranty: GAF offers a variety of warranties on their shingles, including lifetime limited warranties, which can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment.
Cons of using GAF Roofing Shingles
Cost: GAF shingles can be more expensive than other types of shingles, which can make them a less budget-friendly option for some homeowners.
Installation: GAF roof shingles can be more difficult to install than other types of shingles, which can increase the cost of labor and installation.
Color fading: GAF roof shingles are made with advanced color blending technology, but like all shingles, the color may fade over time due to exposure to the sun.
Limited availability: GAF shingles may not be available in all areas, so it may be more difficult to find a contractor who is familiar with them.
Quality control issues: Some customers have reported quality control issues with GAF shingles, such as missing or damaged shingles, which can lead to problems with the overall installation and warranty.
It’s worth noting that these are general pros and cons, and the specific features and benefits of GAF shingles can vary depending on the specific product. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional roofing contractor and read the product’s specifications before making a purchase.
The GAF System Plus Limited Warranty
The GAF System Plus Limited Warranty is a warranty offered by GAF on select roofing systems that includes coverage for both the materials and labor for the roofing system. This warranty is a step up from the standard GAF limited warranty, which only covers materials.
The GAF System Plus Limited Warranty includes:
- Lifetime limited warranty on the GAF shingles
- 10-year coverage for GAF accessories such as ridge cap shingles, starter strip shingles, and leak barrier products
- 10-year coverage on GAF’s roof deck protection and ventilation products
- 10-year coverage on GAF’s Cobra Attic Ventilation
- Coverage for labor costs associated with the repair or replacement of any covered items
The GAF System Plus Limited Warranty is only available when the entire GAF roofing system is installed by a GAF Factory-Certified Contractor. This warranty is transferable to the new homeowner, which can increase the resale value of the property.
It’s worth noting that this warranty is subject to the terms and conditions of the warranty and the specific coverage can vary depending on the products used and the specific installation. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to read and understand the warranty’s terms and conditions before making a decision.
GAF Nail Strike Zone
The GAF Nail Strike Zone is a feature of some GAF shingles that are designed to help ensure proper roof installation and reduce the risk of shingle blow-off. The Nail Strike Zone is a colored strip on the shingle that indicates the exact location where nails should be placed during installation.
The Nail Strike Zone is usually located in the center of the shingle and is colored differently from the rest of the shingle. This makes it easy for the installer to find the correct location for the nails, which helps to ensure that the shingles are properly secured to the roof deck.
Properly nailing shingles is critical for ensuring the durability and longevity of a roofing system. Shingles that are not properly secured can blow off in high winds, which can cause leaks and damage to the roof deck and the interior of the building.
By using the Nail Strike Zone, the installer can be sure that the shingles are correctly installed, and that they will remain securely in place. This feature is an added advantage of using GAF shingles and helps to ensure the longevity and durability of the roof.
It’s worth noting that the Nail Strike Zone feature is not included in all GAF shingles, so it’s important to check if the shingles you are considering have this feature before making a purchase.
