My neighbor across the street just got his roof redone, and while chatting with the crew, one of the guys mentioned something interesting. He said that most asphalt shingle brands use pretty similar materials, but the real difference comes down to how they're manufactured and the quality control standards each company has. Apparently, some brands put extra effort into making sure their shingles resist algae growth or wind damage better than others.
Made me think back to when my parents replaced their roof about 8 years ago. They went with Owens Corning because the roofer recommended it as a good balance between price and durability. Honestly, it's held up pretty well so far—no curling or discoloration yet—but I wonder if that's typical or just luck?
I also heard from another friend that CertainTeed shingles are supposed to be really solid too, especially in areas prone to storms or heavy winds. But then again, I've seen people online swear by GAF because of their warranty coverage and customer support.
Kinda makes you wonder if there's really that much difference between these big-name brands or if it's mostly marketing hype. Like, is it worth paying extra for a premium brand, or are mid-tier shingles just as reliable over time?
If anyone's had experience with different brands over the years—or maybe even worked in roofing—I'd love to hear your take on this. Curious if there's any hidden gems out there or ones we should definitely steer clear of...
