Choosing roof shingles can seem complex when every brand claims to be the best, but understanding what actually matters for your home makes the decision much clearer.
This guide breaks down the top shingle brands, explains what actually matters for your home and climate, and shows you how to compare quotes with confidence and clarity.
What Are the Best Roofing Shingle Brands
The best roof shingles depend on what matters most to you. CertainTeed often ranks highest for overall quality and style. GAF offers the widest variety and strong durability. Owens Corning stands out for performance, especially impact resistance. Atlas excels at algae protection, and IKO delivers solid quality at a lower price point.
Brand | Best For | Notable Product Line |
|---|---|---|
CertainTeed | Overall quality and style | Landmark series |
GAF | Variety and durability | Timberline HDZ |
Owens Corning | Performance and impact resistance | Duration series |
Atlas | Value and algae protection | Pinnacle Pristine |
IKO | Budget-friendly option | Cambridge series |
CertainTeed
CertainTeed consistently ranks as the top overall brand among roofing professionals. The Landmark series offers a dimensional look that mimics natural wood shake, and the color selection is extensive. Warranty options are comprehensive, which is why many contractors recommend CertainTeed as their first choice.
GAF
GAF is the largest shingle manufacturer in North America. That means wide availability and plenty of product options no matter where you live. The Timberline HDZ line features LayerLock technology (a special bonding system that creates a stronger seal between shingle layers). Wind resistance on Timberline shingles is among the best available.
Owens Corning
If you live somewhere with severe weather, Owens Corning is worth a close look. The Duration series uses SureNail technology, which creates a stronger area where nails go through the shingle to help them stay attached during high winds. Impact resistance is another strong point, making Duration shingles popular in regions that see frequent hail.
Atlas
Atlas offers a compelling balance of quality and value. Pinnacle Pristine shingles come with Scotchgard protection built in, which prevents the black algae streaks that show up on roofs in humid climates. You get premium features without paying premium prices.
IKO
For homeowners watching their budget, IKO delivers respectable quality at a lower cost. The Cambridge series provides a dimensional look similar to more expensive architectural shingles. Warranties and features are more modest than premium brands, but IKO has been manufacturing shingles for decades.
Types of Asphalt Shingles for Your Roof
Asphalt shingles cover roughly 80% of American homes. They come in three main types, and understanding the differences helps you make sense of what contractors are quoting.
3-Tab Shingles
3-tab shingles are the most basic and affordable option. They have a flat appearance with three visible tabs per shingle strip, and they typically last 15 to 20 years. If budget is your primary concern or you're roofing a rental property, 3-tab shingles provide reliable protection at the most economical price point.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also called dimensional or laminated shingles, are the most popular choice today. Multiple layers create depth and texture that looks more like natural materials. Durability is significantly better than 3-tab, with lifespans of 25 to 30 years. Most homeowners find the modest price increase worthwhile for the added longevity.
Designer Shingles
Designer shingles are the premium tier. They mimic the look of slate, cedar shake, or tile at a fraction of the weight. Curb appeal is exceptional, though you will pay considerably more. Not every contractor has experience installing designer shingles, so availability can vary.
How to Choose the Best Shingles for Your Home
Picking the right shingles comes down to three factors: budget, climate, and style. Here's how each one affects your decision.
Budget
Shingle costs vary widely by type. 3-tab shingles typically cost $100-150 per square but may need replacement sooner. Architectural shingles cost $150-250 per square initially yet often deliver better long-term value through durability. Designer shingles run $250-500 per square, pricing that makes sense primarily when aesthetics are a top priority.
When comparing costs, factor in how long each shingle type lasts. A shingle that costs 30% more but lasts 50% longer can actually save money over time.
Climate
Your local weather matters more than most homeowners realize. Wind ratings, impact resistance, and algae protection all vary by product. A shingle that performs well in Arizona may not be the best choice for Florida or Kansas. The next section covers climate-specific recommendations in detail.
Style
Shingles affect your home's appearance more than you might expect. Consider your home's architecture and what fits the neighborhood. Color and texture options vary significantly between shingle types and brands. Ask to see samples in person before deciding, since colors look different on a roof than they do in a brochure.
Best Roof Shingles by Climate and Weather
Matching shingles to your local conditions helps ensure your roof performs well for decades. Here's what to look for based on your biggest weather concerns.
Best Shingles for High Winds
Wind resistance ratings indicate how well shingles stay attached during storms. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles carry a 130 mph wind rating, among the highest available. However, proper installation matters just as much as the shingle itself. Even the best shingles fail if nailed incorrectly or in the wrong locations.
Best Shingles for Hail and Impact Resistance
Impact ratings use a class system that tells you how much hail a shingle can handle:
Class 3: Withstands hail up to 1.75 inches in diameter
Class 4: Withstands hail up to 2 inches, may qualify for insurance discounts
Owens Corning Duration and Atlas StormMaster are popular choices for hail-prone areas. Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for Class 4 shingles, sometimes enough to offset the higher material cost.
Best Shingles for Hot and Sunny Climates
UV exposure breaks down shingles over time. Some manufacturers offer "cool roof" shingles with reflective granules that bounce sunlight away from your home. Lighter colors also help keep your attic cooler, which can reduce air conditioning costs in hot climates.
Best Shingles for Humidity and Moisture
In humid climates, algae growth causes unsightly black streaks on roofs. Shingles with algae-resistant technology prevent this problem. Atlas Pinnacle Pristine shingles are particularly well-regarded for algae protection because they include Scotchgard technology with copper granules that inhibit algae growth.
How Roofing Shingle Warranties Work
Warranties can be confusing because you actually receive two separate coverages. Understanding both helps you know what protection you're getting.
Manufacturer Warranties
Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the shingle materials. Length and coverage vary by brand and product line. Premium shingles typically come with longer, more comprehensive warranties. One important detail: many manufacturer warranties require installation by a certified contractor to remain valid.
Contractor Workmanship Warranties
Workmanship warranties are separate from manufacturer warranties. They cover installation errors, like improper nailing or flashing mistakes. Get this warranty in writing before work begins. Poor installation can void your manufacturer warranty entirely, so choosing a qualified contractor matters as much as choosing quality shingles.
How Much Do the Best Roof Shingles Cost
Material costs vary significantly by shingle type:
3-Tab shingles: $100-150 per square, 15-20 year lifespan
Architectural shingles: $150-250 per square, 25-30 year lifespan
Designer shingles: $250-500 per square, 30+ year lifespan
3-Tab shingles: Most affordable upfront, shorter lifespan
Architectural shingles: Mid-range cost, best balance of price and durability
Designer shingles: Premium pricing, highest aesthetic value
Installation labor is separate from material costs and typically runs $300-600 per square, often representing half or more of your total project cost. When comparing quotes, look at the complete picture rather than just material prices. A lower material cost paired with higher labor charges may not actually save you money.
How to Compare Shingle Prices Across Quotes
Getting multiple quotes is smart. Comparing them accurately requires knowing what to look for and what to avoid.
What a Line-Item Shingle Quote Should Include
A proper quote breaks down costs clearly so you can compare apples to apples:
Shingle brand and product line: The exact product being installed
Material quantity: How many squares of shingles you need (one square covers 100 square feet)
Underlayment: The protective layer beneath shingles
Flashing and ventilation: Metal pieces around penetrations and roof vents
Labor costs: Installation work, listed separately from materials
Tear-off and disposal: Removing your old roof materials
Red Flags When Comparing Roofing Quotes
Some warning signs suggest a quote deserves extra scrutiny:
Vague descriptions: No specific brands or products listed
Lump-sum pricing: One number with no breakdown
High-pressure tactics: Demands for an immediate decision
Unusually low prices: Significantly cheaper than other quotes
Missing details: No mention of permits or warranty information
Questions to Ask Your Roofer About Shingles
Before hiring a contractor, a few questions can help you understand what you are getting:
Which shingle brand and product line do you recommend for my home and why?
Are you a certified installer for this shingle manufacturer?
What warranty coverage will I receive on materials and workmanship?
How does this shingle perform in our local climate?
Can I see shingle samples in person before deciding?
What is included in your quote and what might cost extra?
The answers reveal how well a contractor knows their products and whether they're thinking about your specific situation.
Get Your Roof Shingle Quotes Today
Comparing quotes from multiple contractors helps you find quality shingles at a fair price. At roofquotes.com, you can gather up to five vetted, line-item quotes from local roofers. Line-item quotes make it easy to compare real prices and see exactly what each contractor includes. Your payment stays protected in escrow until the job is complete and you're satisfied.
