When it comes to replacing your roof, your choice of shingle brand can significantly impact your home’s roofing and waterproof durability, appearance, and long-term value. Among the top roofing materials manufacturers, CertainTeed and GAF are two of the most trusted and widely used brands in United States and Canada. But which company is better?
If you’re comparing GAF and CertainTeed shingles, you’re already on the right track—both brands have decades of proven performance and offer reliable options for a wide range of roofing needs. However, they serve slightly different markets, and the best choice for your home will depend on your budget, design preferences, and durability requirements.
This blog breaks down the pros, cons, and best features of GAF and CertainTeed roofing shingles in detail—without hype or fluff—so you can make the best possible decision.
Why Brand Choice Matters for Your Roof
Your roof protects your home from the elements 24/7. It’s also a major part of your home’s curb appeal and resale value. With proper installation, an asphalt shingle roof can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years depending on the brand, product line, and environmental conditions.
Choosing CertainTeed vs GAF shingles means deciding between two high-quality options, but they have key differences in construction, pricing, warranties, and even style.
Overview of GAF Roofing Shingles
GAF, founded in 1886, is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. Its products are widely available, competitively priced, and designed to balance performance with affordability.
Top GAF Shingle Lines
- Timberline HDZ®: GAF’s flagship architectural shingle with a good balance of strength, style, and price.
- Timberline UHDZ®: A premium upgrade with thicker construction and a more defined look.
- Glenwood®: High-end, triple-layer shingles that mimic wood shakes.
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Royal Sovereign®: Classic 3-tab shingles for economy roofing needs.
GAF shingles are engineered with LayerLock™ technology, which offers superior wind uplift resistance and compatibility with GAF’s nail guide strip for easier, faster, and more consistent installations.
Overview of CertainTeed Roofing Shingles
CertainTeed, a division of Saint-Gobain (established in 1904), is often regarded as the premium choice among asphalt shingle manufacturers. Their shingles come typically heavier, thicker, and more dimensional than comparable lines from other brands.
Top CertainTeed Shingle Lines
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Landmark®: Their entry-level architectural shingle, thicker than most base-level competitors.
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Landmark Pro/Premium®: Enhanced versions with more granule coverage, color depth, and durability.
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Presidential Shake®: Luxury shingles designed to replicate wood shakes.
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Grand Manor®: Ultra-premium, multi-layered shingles with bold slate aesthetics.
CertainTeed also offers the Integrity Roof System®, which includes underlayments, ridge caps, and starter strips designed to work in harmony for optimal roof protection.
Side-by-Side Comparison: GAF vs CertainTeed
Let’s break down how these two brands compare across the most important categories for homeowners.
1. Durability and Longevity
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GAF shingles are engineered for long-term performance upgraded to 130 mph wind speed and algae growth resistant coatings.
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CertainTeed shingles are typically heavier and denser, which contributes to greater durability and resistance to impact and wind uplift.
⭐Verdict: CertainTeed wins for long-term durability, especially in regions with extreme weather.
2. Appearance and Curb Appeal
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GAF’s Timberline series offers attractive architectural profiles and a decent selection of colors.
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CertainTeed’s luxury lines offer deeper shadow lines, thicker cuts, and more dimensional profiles, making them ideal for upscale homes.
⭐Verdict: CertainTeed takes the lead for exterior aesthetic detail and high-end curb appeal.
3. Weight and Build Quality
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GAF Timberline HDZ shingles weigh approximately 210 lbs per square.
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CertainTeed Landmark shingles weigh up to 250–270 lbs per square, and some luxury lines exceed 300 lbs.
Heavier shingles often indicate higher material quality, but they may also require stronger perform roof framing and more labor to install.
⭐Verdict: CertainTeed has the edge in material thickness and density.
4. Ease of Installation
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GAF’s StrikeZone™ nailing area makes installation faster and easier for roofers, reducing error and improving wind warranty eligibility.
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CertainTeed shingles, while excellent in quality, are heavier and can be more labor-intensive, some times require special installation.
⭐Verdict: GAF is generally easier and quicker to install.
5. Warranties
GAF Warranties:
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Limited Lifetime Warranty on most shingles.
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Golden Pledge® Warranty (requires Master Elite® contractor): up to 50 years coverage, including workmanship.
CertainTeed Warranties:
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Limited Lifetime Warranty on most shingles.
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SureStart PLUS™ extended warranty (with SELECT ShingleMaster™ contractor): includes full system and labor coverage for up to 50 years.
⭐Verdict: Both offer excellent warranties, but GAF has broader contractor availability for accessing the top-tier warranty.
6. Cost and Value
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GAF Timberline HDZ shingles cost approximately $350–$550 per square installed.
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CertainTeed Landmark PRO and similar lines range from $450–$750 per square installed, with luxury lines exceeding that.
⭐Verdict: GAF offers better overall value for mid-range budgets, while CertainTeed provides more value at the premium level.
Pros and Cons Summary
✅GAF Roofing Pros:
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More affordable
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Easier installation
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Excellent wind and algae protection
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Good selection for most home styles
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Widely available certified installers
❌GAF Roofing Cons:
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Lighter-weight shingles may not match CertainTeed’s premium feel
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Fewer ultra-luxury product lines
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Color options and texture slightly less refined in premium lines
✅CertainTeed Roofing Pros:
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Superior material weight and durability
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High-end designs with rich textures
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Better aesthetic depth for luxury homes
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Comprehensive warranty protection
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Long-term performance in extreme climates
❌CertainTeed Roofing Cons:
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Higher cost across all product lines
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Heavier shingles may increase installation cost, time and labor
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Limited installer availability in some regions
Real-World Scenarios: Which Should You Choose?
Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious Homeowner
If you’re looking to replace your roof with solid, dependable shingles without overspending, GAF’s Timberline HDZ offers exceptional performance at a reasonable cost. You’ll still get good looks, solid warranties, and a roof that can stand up to the elements.
⭐Best Choice: GAF
Scenario 2: Upscale Home Needing a Designer Look
If your home has high-end finishes or is in a luxury neighborhood, CertainTeed’s Presidential Shake or Grand Manor shingles can boost curb appeal and value significantly. They mimic wood and slate roofing with superior durability.
⭐Best Choice: CertainTeed
Scenario 3: Extreme Weather Conditions
For homeowners in hurricane zones, hail-prone areas, or snowy regions, the heavier weight and multilayer construction of CertainTeed shingles provide added resilience.
⭐Best Choice: CertainTeed
Scenario 4: Rental Property or Home Sale Preparation
If you’re preparing a house for sale or upgrading a rental, GAF’s affordability and quick installation make it a smart investment with strong ROI.
⭐Best Choice: GAF
Final Verdict: GAF or CertainTeed?
There’s no absolute winner—just the best fit for your goals.
Choose GAF if you:
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Need reliable performance at a fair price
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Want easier installation and faster turnaround
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Have a mid-range home or budget-focused project
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Prefer wider contractor availability
Choose CertainTeed if you:
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Want luxury-level roofing with maximum durability
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Live in an area with harsh weather
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Own a high-end home and care deeply about aesthetics
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Are investing in long-term performance, regardless of cost
Closing Thoughts
Choosing between GAF and CertainTeed is less about which is “better” and more about which is right for your home, your budget, and your goals. Both brands are reputable and have stood the test of time and offer trusted solutions for residential and commercial roofing projects.
If you’re still unsure, consult with a local roofing contractor. They can evaluate your home, climate, and design preferences to help you decide which brand and product line is the best match for you.
