What Is A Gaf Roofing System

Cost Of Gaf Shingles At Home Depot

If you want to see what GAF roof shingles look like without making any commitments to a contractor, you can do this at your local Home Depot.

Similarly, if you are planning to install the shingles by yourself and are not looking for a fancy product, you can simply purchase them in store.

This way, you dont need to deal with roofing suppliers.

Here is a list of GAF shingles available at Home Depot, including prices. Keep in mind that local stores across the US will have a slightly different selection. You may also need to order a particular color, if they dont have it in stock.

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What Exactly Are The Gaf Solar Shingles

Leading roofing manufacturer GAFs nailable solar shingles are designed with roofers top-of-mind in order to make installation a breeze. Image source: News Atlas

GAFs solar shingle design combines the conventional asphalt roof shingle material theyre known for with the monocrystalline solar cells of a solar panel.

The top portion of the shingle is made of asphalt, which means it can be nailed right to the roof like regular shingles – no racking or extra mounting equipment necessary. This makes it incredibly easy for roofing contractors to install them.

The bottom portion of the solar shingle is what will generate the electricity. When installed, that portion will overlap the asphalt material of the solar shingle before it. The shingles lay flush against your roof, staying right in line with the regular asphalt shingles covering the remainder of the surface of the roof.

All of the wiring is located on the side of the shingle, where they can be easily connected together to create a functioning solar electric system.

Leak Barriers For Roof Deck And Shingles Protection:

The GAF-certified roofing contractor prefers to install leak barriers as one of the beneficial services for keeping the roof deck dry and home insulations safe from getting wet.

The underlayment ensures to protect the sensitive entrances like a chimney, plumbing vents, and skylights from getting leaked. Thus, GAF gives you a choice of two types of leak barriers that prevent the degradation of roof shingles caused by wind-driven rains.

• WeatherWatch underlayment has a granule surface for protecting both metal and asphalt shingle roofs.
• StormGuard underlayment has a film surface for protecting asphalt roof shingles.

• Gmail

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Peace Of Mind For Life

The roof over your home or business is a crucial aspect that many people take for granted. Without it, you and your belongings are exposed to the elements. And in Florida, having a roof you can trust and rely on is even more important during hurricane season! With a GAF roofing system, you wont have to worry about wind or damage to your roof due to faulty or cheap materials, as everything is covered for virtually a lifetime! If there is any problem, you can get it repaired without spending a penny!

Owens Corning Vs Gaf Cost

To accurately compare the costs of each brand, weve divided up the average cost ranges for each of their three shingle types and detailed the cost of the materials vs. labor to get a better picture.

*There are dozens of shingle types for each brand these are an umbrella for all the specific shingles. The price reflects the range from the most affordable standard shingle to the more premium, customized options in each category.

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Investment In Gaf Vs Owens Corning Shingles

Both GAF vs. Owens Corning shingles and roofing products require similar levels of investment. GAF shingles are available in an affordable range of options, from the budget 3 tab to the most durable shingles with superior resistance to impact, stains, and UV rays. Their popular dimensional Timberline shingles start around $110-120. GAF products are widely available in a large range of color and style options.

Owens Corning shingles are comparable in cost to other leading shingle brands, including GAF. Their mid-range Definition Duration shingles start at $80-110. Although a slightly lower price per square, you might be able to upgrade to the OC Duration Designer shingles for a similar value to GAF.

Keep in mind that shingle installation, whether GAF vs. Owens Corning shingles, will include labor costs and extra roof accessories like underlayment, ventilation and hip/ridge shingles. Owens Corning shingles might be available at a slightly lower investment cost, but youll likely pay the same price overall for installation, and potentially more over time in maintenance for the Owens Corning shingles.

Pros: Why Homeowners Like Gaf Shingles

There are plenty of reasons why contractors and inspectors like GAF , but youre probably wondering why homeowners like them so much. Here are the advantages to choosing GAF roofs for your home:

• They offer good options for any homeowner This brand offers quality options for any price range. Options can include affordable 25-year three-tab, specialty shingles that are more resistant to impact, upscale shingles, and solar-reflective and stain-protected shingles.
• They offer upgraded warranties Better warranties are offered when a roofer thats certified Master Elite by GAF installs the shingles. The 100% coverage can be extended from 10 years to 50 years and the workmanship can be extended from zero up to 25 years.
• Most of the warranties are transferable once Its effective as a selling-point to let potential homebuyers know that the warranty will remain in after the sale. Please note that for the warranty to remain in effect, the new homeowners must notify GAF in writing within 60 days.

GAF is such a versatile brand that just about any homeowner would be pleased with the options they present. If youre interested in using this brand for your roofing installation or replacement, please contact us today.

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What Is A Gaf Roofing System

by CLC Contributor | May 16, 2020 | Construction

GAF is a roofing manufacturer founded in 1886 and which has become the largest in North America. It produces commercial and steep-slope roofs and works with a large network of certified Fort Worth roofers.

GAF is committed to a few principles: roofing solutions made simple, advanced quality and industry expertise. The company developed advanced protection shingle technology, as well as asphalt and single-ply membranes providing superior durability and energy-efficiency.

If you opt for a GAF roofing system and install Lifetime Shingles as well as qualifying GAF accessories, you can get a Lifetime warranty. This will provide you peace of mind knowing that you benefit from superior, long-term protection. Working with GAFs factory-certified Fort Worth roofers, the coverage before the warranty is prorated gets extended to 50 years, while installed quality is extended to 20 years this is significantly more than what you will get from regular companies.

And besides these numbers, there is a better roof for you, not just marketing tactics, which is the main advantage of choosing GAF.

Roofing contractors certified as GAF Master Elite® Contractors have adequate licenses, insurance, proven reputation and are committed to ongoing professional training and evaluation, to meet and maintain GAF standards, proving an ongoing commitment to quality.

What Consists Of A Complete Roofing System From Gaf

by Dawn Smith | Mar 22, 2017 | Roofing

The overall performance of your roofing system is reliant not just on its installation but also to the individual components that make it up. Thats why you should ensure that your choice of roofing system is complemented by high-quality parts.

Fortunately, you can count on GAF Master Elite roofer Peak Roofing Contractors to provide you with a complete and reliable roofing system. Here are the components that contribute to its superior performance.

Lifetime Shingles

We offer a wide selection of asphalt shingle roofing that can stand up to inclement weather conditions and strong winds for a long period. Our popular Timberline® shingle roofs feature Dura Grip adhesives that ensure each shingle remains in place despite high winds. They also have StainGuard® protection that will preserve their charm from unpleasant organic growth. Theyre also available in an extensive selection of colors and profiles to match your homes style.

Cobra® Attic Ventilation

Too much heat and moisture in your attic can wear down your roof, making it vulnerable to harsh climate. Cobra attic ventilation can prevent this from happening as it lets excessive heat and moisture escape out of the area. This will help regulate temperature in your attic, prolonging your roofing systems service life.

Roof Deck Protection

Starter Strip Shingles

Leak Barrier

Ridge Cap Shingles

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Gaf Master Elite Roofing Contractor

As a GAF Weather Stopper® Roofing Contractor, we provide extensive warranty protection that most other contractors cannot. With the Weather Stopper Roofing System and one of our Deluxe GAF warranties, you can rest assured that youre not only protected by the J Carnes & Son Roofing name and reputation, but the countrys largest and oldest roofing manufacturer.

Outstanding Roofing Outstanding Roofing Warranty

GAF Weather Stopper Roofing System is the only roofing system backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal: further assurance that GAF will stand behind your new roof. As of January 1st, 2011 all GAF laminated asphalt roofing shingles are covered under a limited lifetime warranty.

Would Gaf Solar Shingles Really Be Cheaper Than Traditional Solar Panels

Again, since we dont have any official pricing from GAF, we cant say with 100% certainty that GAF solar shingles would be cheaper. However, it seems likely that GAF will be able to keep their prices pretty low.

Theres two main reasons for this. For one thing, GAF doesnt really have to worry about customer acquisition costs like most solar installers. GAF is a trusted name brand in the roofing industry, so when homeowners are looking to replace their roof, GAF is already on their radar. A GAF installer can simply mention to homeowners, Hey, youre already getting a roof replacement, do you want to try solar shingles?

The second reason is that GAF solar shingles are designed to be installed by roofers. Instead of having to deal with two separate companies for a roofing and a solar installation, it can be done by one team. That cuts down on the amount of time and labor needed to complete the project, which brings down the price.

See which incentives and rebates you are eligible for to reduce the cost of a solar system installation

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Receive An Estimate For Gaf Shingles In Minutes With Our Roofing Calculator

Image source: Zups Construction

The Timberline shingles are GAFs brand line of multi-layered architectural shingles featuring sophisticated textures and durability. Timberline shingles are one of the best-selling shingles available and popular among homeowners due to their high quality, competitive pricing, and strength against severe weather. GAF currently offers seven types of Timberline shingles.

Timberline AH – The Timberline AH shingles come from GAFs American Harvest Collection, which is available in seven warm Earth-tone colors. These shingles feature GAFs LayerLock Technology, which fuses the bond between shingle layers. Much like CertainTeeds NailTrack system, which gives installers a wider area to nail the shingles, the Timberline AH shingles include GAFs version of The StrikeZone Nailing Area. According to GAF, the StrikeZone offers the widest nail zone. The AH shingles also feature StainGuard Plus which prevents algae damage and a wind warranty with no maximum speed limits. AH shingles average about $120 per square.

Timberline CS – GAFs CS shingles are Energy Star certified and designed to reflect solar heat, keeping your home cool and saving energy costs. Available in three colors, these shingles are fire and algae-resistant and can withstand winds up to 130 MPH. CS shingles average about $210 per square.

What Do Roofers And Homeowners Think About Gaf Shingles

Of the homeowners that love GAF, the common point of appreciation is how good the shingles look. After 10-12 years, in various US regions, many homeowners report that their roof looks very good, and that they get a lot of compliments from their neighbors on how well its holding up over the years.

Other positive reviews note that in the 10 years since the roof has been installed, there have been no issues with leaks, very easy maintenance and no need for repairs.

Many people really like the value of Timberline shingles and how easy it is to find them in local home improvement stores. They are not expensive compared to other more upscale brands, such as Malarkey, but offer comparable curb appeal. Also, homeowners note that price for Timberline is not significantly more expensive than for the 3-tab product, but they look much better.

The shingles that were praised the most were:

Timberline HD greatest number of positive reviewsTimberline ArmorShieldWoodlandSlateline

One line that got very little complaints and a lot of positive feedback was designer Country Mansion shingles. However, they have been discontinued as of 2013.

On the Home Depot website, Royal Sovereign 3 tab shingles have earned a 4.3/5 rating, 83% positive reviews and customers recommending this product. Timberline HD Weathered Wood has a 4.5/5 rating and 79% positive reviews.

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Is Gaf A Reliable Roofing Manufacturer

GAF is one of the top-known roofing manufacturers, offering stiff competition to other known brands like Owens Corning and CertainTeed. In terms of quality, they’re top of the line.

This company is among the world’s leading manufacturers for roofing and waterproofing products, with 34 manufacturing operations in 26 US locations and over 3,700 employees.

There have been class-action lawsuits filed against GAF between 1998 and 2009. However, GAF was not the only roofing company with claims filed against them, and all issues have been resolved that led to the suits.

Gaf Shingles Pros And Cons

The biggest advantage of GAF products is that they can suit any budget, aesthetic taste and architectural home style. Because GAF is the largest and oldest roofing manufacturer in the US, you can trust the quality of their roofing materials.

However, like any other roof, these shingles have their own flaws and disadvantages.

One of the biggest is that the shingles have an up-word bent when you install them. This makes them susceptible to blow off if there is a strong wind. This is NOT a manufacturing defect its how the shingles are designed. GAF explains this in their technical installation manual and suggests that they will settle down within 4-6 weeks. Sunshine also really helps in this settling process.

The problem is that if these shingles are installed during inclement weather seasons, such as fall and winter, you are risking a much higher chance of multiple shingles getting blown off. As a result, many roofers recommend to do the roof replacement in the spring or summer.

Another is that its hard to find a certified Master Elite Roofer if you want to get the upgraded warranty. Most roofers dont want to go through GAFs training program, and there are only 2-3% professional contractors that have this certification.

Lastly, in 2013, there was a major class action lawsuit again GAF Timberline shingles, and a number of manufacturing defects have been discovered. The suit has been settled and the issues have been eliminated. We covered this lawsuit in detail, here.

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Tab Vs Architectural Shingles

Most homeowners prefer architectural shingles because of superior looks, when compared to strip shingles. However, people wonder if looks alone can justify the much higher cost of architectural shingles?

Well, it turns out that when you are paying 25-40% more for architectural shingles, you are investing into a lot more than just great looks. Compared to 3 tab shingles, architectural ones offer increased durability and longevity.

They are twice as thick, which means that they are less susceptible to curbing and wind uplift. Laminated shingles also last significantly longer, which is why they earn the name Lifetime shingles.

Can You Install A Solar Battery With Gaf Solar Shingles

Yes, you can install a solar battery with GAF solar shingles.

You would want to install an AC-coupled battery, like the sonnenCore or Tesla Powerwallafter the installation. The battery installation would be separate from the solar roof installation, so you would need to find a battery contractor in your area.

Alternatively, you could install a DC battery, like the LG Chem Prime, but we don’t really recommend this, seeing as it would probably require some additional equipment and planning with a certified solar storage contractor. Thats because AC-coupled batteries are specially designed to be installed after solar is installed , whereas DC batteries are meant to be installed at the same time.

You can learn more about the differences between the two battery types here.

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Can You Install Gaf Solar Shingles Without Having To Get A Roof Replacement

No, you cant get GAF solar shingles installed without an accompanying roof replacement.

GAF solar shingles must be installed by a GAF-certified contractor at the same time as a roof replacement, or during the construction of a new roof. So, if you just got your roof replaced and are looking to go solar, youll probably want to stick with regular rooftop solar panels.

Which Gaf Shingle Is Right For You

Image source: Amiano and Son

One of GAF shingles biggest strengths is its versatility. With its Timberline UHD RS solar reflective shingles and its Royal Sovereign shingles which are designed to withstand colder temperatures, GAF shingles perform well in all climates. Most GAF shingles can withstand incredibly high hurricane winds and are designed not to blow off.

Depending on what style youre interested in, we recommend going with the Timberline HDZ shingle as a more expensive option and the Royal Sovereign shingle as a cost-effective option. Both of these shingles offer superior durability, wide nailing areas, and strong wind warranties and are both reasonably priced. GAF consistently ranks among one of the most popular manufacturers of roofing products and roofing materials and its easy to see why.

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