Embarking on a quest to find the best shingle brand? If so, we understand if you have a lot of weighing to do between your options. We've all been there- faced with many choices and lost on the right pick. And when it comes to shingles, those choices can be even tougher to narrow down.
Brands like GAF and TAMKO offer their own unique advantages and disadvantages, just like any other brand on the market.
Luckily, RoofCrafters has repaired and replaced shingle roofing systems for nearly thirty years. After all this time, we're well-nuanced regarding shingle manufacturers.
In this article, we've created the perfect guide that includes everything you need to know about comparing GAF and TAMKO, from highlighting their top qualities to discussing warranties. When you finish up, you'll feel more confident in which brand best suits you and your home. Let's go!
GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles: Comprehensive Overview
GAF is a well-known manufacturing company established in the late 1800s. With the slogan "We protect what matters most," they're North America's leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer. If you are wondering...yes, a roofing manufacturer's reputation is important!
GAF offers five shingle types, including Timberline HDZ. I think we can all agree that nothing is perfect. However, this shingle type does boast numerous benefits you may not find elsewhere. Here are the unique advantages that are only up for grabs if you choose the GAF HDZ shingle:
- Infinite Wind Speed Coverage
- 25-year StainGuard Plus Algae Protection
- LayerLock Technology with Duragrip Adhesive
Unique Benefits of GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles
Several manufacturers make comparable architectural shingles, but GAF wins a special place in the hearts of many roofers and homeowners because of its rare offerings, including the top three we discuss below.
GAF Windproven Infinite Wind Speed Protection
The GAF HDZ shingle is the only architectural shingle on the market with an unlimited wind speed warranty. This means for the first 15 years, GAF provides you with industry-leading infinite wind speed protection!
As you can see, you must have four products installed to be eligible.
Other manufacturers only offer a 110 mph wind warranty on architectural shingles. However, some of the other brands provide an upgrade to 130 mph if you use their starter shingle and 6-nail the shingle. None have an unlimited warranty, though. Go GAF!
25-Year StainGuard Plus Algae Protection
GAF's 25-year StainGuard Plus technology was designed to eliminate algae and those awful black streaks. How do they do that, you ask? Well- GAF puts copper and zinc in a time-released capsule that helps remove them.
Less than 10-year-old roof with black algae
Compare that to other manufacturers who only offer 10-year algae warranties (with some even adding clauses in the fine print to make them liable for certain algae.) Don't worry about that with GAF's fine print; you'll be covered against black streaks and algae for 25 years with HDZ shingles.
GAF's LayerLock Technology and Dura Grip Sealant
HDZ shingles are specifically engineered for the best installation possible. Their LayerLock technology mechanically fuses the common bond between the overlapping shingle layers. Why?
There's greater accuracy when installing the shingles!
The Layerlock technology combined with the Dura Grip Sealant is how GAF can provide consumers with infinite wind speed protection. The Dura Grip Sealant helps lock the shingles together at the strike zone, ensuring no wind gets under them.
Potential Drawbacks of GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles
There are a few notable drawbacks of this shingle, despite the magnificent benefits it offers. Whether these are downsides for you or not depends on your personal preferences. The three main cons include:
- No "WOW" factor or aesthetic limitations
- Limited color options in certain geographical areas
- Only GAF Master Elite Contractors Offer the Best Warranties
Where's the "Wow?"
Aesthetically speaking, GAF HDZ shingles won't provide that unique factor some homeowners seek out (unless you upgrade to a Timberline Ultra HDZ shingle.) The HDZ shingles have more of a typical architectural design. That being said, they simulate a wood-shake look and will give your roof more dimension than a 3-tab shingle.
Color Me Shocked
GAF Timberline HDZ shingles also have the least colors to choose from compared to a few other top brands. The available colors will depend on which region of the United States you live in.
Specific colors are only available for particular regions.
When you look at all the colors available, it seems like there's plenty. But sadly, when you enter your zip code and select "see colors," you lose some color choices.
See the color chart here.
GAF Master Elite Contractor: The Better Option
Although it isn't mandatory to hire a GAF Master Elite Contractor, it is worth considering the benefits they can offer. Below, we'll outline why it may benefit you, especially if you plan to have these shingles installed on your home.
Purchasing and installing the shingles yourself or calling someone like your uncle to install them comes with a 10-year non-prorated warranty. However, it's important to note that there will only be a workmanship warranty if your uncle is willing to come back and address any potential leaks that occur.
Another option is hiring a GAF-certified contractor representing GAF's entry-level tier of factory-trained contractors. With this choice, you'll receive a 50-year non-prorated material warranty. However, it's important to note that GAF Certified contractors cannot offer GAF's extended labor warranties. So, you won't benefit from a labor warranty if any leaks occur.
Now, if you hire a GAF Master Elite Contractor, you'll get a 50-year non-prorated warranty on the materials. You'll also get a 25-year no-leak workmanship warranty, covering any installation defaults for that period. If your roof leaks, GAF will send someone out to fix it at no cost!
TAMKO Heritage Shingles: An Alternative Choice
TAMKO is another competitor that manufactures shingles. In the realm of roofing, every contractor eventually discovers a particular brand they love above others, much like how you may have a preferred brand of cars or favorite type of shoes.
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TAMKO prides its Heritage shingles on having "vivid color and dramatic style." Like GAF, you can go to their site and type in your zip code to find colors available. Click here to find out what they can offer you aesthetics-wise.
TAMKO Warranties
The basic Heritage shingles come with standard warranties that are in effect at the point of purchase. They include:
- Full-Start Non-Prorated Warranty Period of 10 Years
- 110 MPH Standard Application Wind Warranty
- 130 MPH High Wind Application Warranty
- Limited Wind Warranty Term of 15 Years
- 120-Month Algae Cleaning Term
GAF comes out on top from a warranty perspective, their warranties clearly exceed TAMKO's.
However, this manufacturer gets ratings in the "good" range from roofing contractors who install them daily and home inspectors who've seen it all.
TAMKO competes head-to-head with other top manufacturers like Owens Corning and CertainTeed, but the other two, like GAF, have several advantages over Tamko.
All in all, TAMKO is viewed more as a "middle of the road" or "builder-grade" shingle brand.
Overall, TAMKO offers good quality and value at lower prices. TAMKO may be a good option for you when:
- You want to save money on comparable shingles.
- You plan to move in the next ten years and are okay with more limited warranties.
- Your preferred roofing contractor recommends TAMKO and gives you a solid workmanship warranty on the installation.
Conclusion: Making Your Shingle Selection
What do you think? We hope this guide helped you get closer to choosing the roof brand that best fits your preferences. If you need extra help deciding, never hesitate to seek a trustworthy roofer. They're there to take the stress of the roof replacement process off your shoulders!
Before you contact one, feel free to take a quick look at our roofer checklist to ensure you know who to look out for when searching for one.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the livelihood of your roof or a potential project, RoofCrafters is delighted to assist you. To book a time with one of our friendly estimators, click the schedule an inspection button below. Remember- a sparkling new roof is only a click away!
