Reviewing GAF Shingles for Tampa Bay Homeowners

GAF shingles are considered by many to be the gold standard when it comes to asphalt roofing shingles. But while you may have heard good things about GAF shingles in general, you likely still have questions about performance, durability, and aesthetics.

That’s why we’re here! We’re Classic Roofing and Construction, and as GAF Master Elite-certified roofers, we know the ins and outs of GAF shingles. And we’re going to give you a review of some of GAF’s most popular shingle options. But first, let’s start with a bit of history: What is GAF?

The History of GAF

The GAF Materials Corporation got its start in roofing manufacturing all the way back in 1886. And over more than a century, it has grown into one of the largest roofing manufacturers in North America. And this doesn’t just apply to the bulk of their sales—GAF is also known as an innovator when it comes to testing and implementing new roofing technologies.

GAF started as the Standard Paint Company, and it invented a ready-to-lay asphalt roofing option known as Ruberoid. This technology eventually evolved into a simple form of modern asphalt shingles, but GAF didn’t let it stop there. In the 90s and early 2000s, GAF unveiled their new High Definition Shingles, which have recently been further developed into their Ultra High Definition Shingles.

New GAF shingles are often more durable, longer-lasting, or come in a wide variety of styles than traditional shingles. By always pushing the envelope and working on new products, GAF has solidified its reputation as a leader in roofing material manufacturing. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the most popular GAF shingle products.

GAF Shingle Reviews

To focus on each individual type of GAF shingle, we’ll be looking at each of them individually. These are not all of the GAF shingles available on the market, but they are some of the most popular shingle roofing options in Tampa Bay. With that in mind, let’s get started!

GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles

GAF HDZ shingles were first unveiled in 2020, and in the past three years they’ve gained a lot of popularity. In fact, this architectural shingle is now America’s top-selling shingle! But what’s all the fuss about?

Asphalt shingles generally come in three types, in ascending quality and price: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. Timberline HDZ shingles are an architectural shingle, meaning that they have a good balance between performance and price. They can generally last for 25 years, even in Tampa Bay’s harsh weather cycle, which makes them a remarkably durable GAF shingle option. Some of their other features include:

• Class A Fire Resistance: GAF Timberline HDZ shingles are top-rated for fire protection. This means that even if your home is struck by lightning, it’s very unlikely that your GAF shingles will catch on fire.
• LayerLock Technology: Architectural shingles are generally made of two layers of shingle adhered with asphalt. But when it gets hot, this connection can weaken and the shingle can come apart. LayerLock technology mechanically adheres the two layers of shingles, which prevents it from separating and weakening your roofing system. This connection is then further reinforced with GAF’s DuraGrip sealant.
• StainGuard Plus: If you’re a Florida homeowner, then you might know that algae is a big problem for roofs in our area. That’s why GAF developed its StainGuard Plus technology, which slowly releases trace amounts of zinc and copper to prevent the growth of algae on and under your shingles. This keeps your roof algae-free and strong for years to come.

When it comes to architectural shingles, Timberline HDZ shingles have a lot to offer. But if you’re considering GAF shingles for your home, then Timberline UHDZ shingles definitely deserve consideration.

GAF Timberline UHDZ Shingles

Timberline UHDZ shingles were only released in 2023, but they’re already making a big splash. These architectural shingles come with all of the features and benefits of HDZ shingles but with a few noteworthy upgrades.

Some of these new and improved features include:

• Dual Shadow Line Technology: Architectural shingles are sometimes also called dimensional shingles because they create a dimensional, textured look. GAF Timberline UHDZ shingles take this a step further with Dual Shadow Line technology, which creates an all-day shadow line across your roof. This new technology creates a thicker shadow that adds more texture to your roof and adds curb appeal to your home.
• Improved StainGuard Plus: Like Timberline HDZ shingles, UHDZ shingles also have StainGuard Plus technology to prevent algae development. But with this new GAF shingle, there is even more copper and zinc stored. This means that you’ll get additional years of protection against algae growth.
• Improved Resistance: In general, thicker shingles are more durable—that’s why architectural shingles are made of two connected shingles. And when compared to HDZ shingles, UHDZ shingles are 20% thicker, which means extra protection and resilience. Notably, this also makes them more resistant to wind uplift, which is a big problem for Tampa Bay homeowners.

It’s worth noting that, since they carry more benefits and features, GAF Timberline UHDZ shingles are more expensive than their HDZ line. Most people find that they’re worth the extra cost, though, as one of the leading asphalt shingles on the market.

But asphalt shingles aren’t the only type of GAF shingle. You may also be interested in GAF’s new line of solar shingle options!

GAF Timberline Solar Shingles

Traditionally, solar roofing has required bulky solar panels. But thanks to GAF’s new Timberline Solar Shingles, you can now get a solar roofing system without using solar panels at all. But how do these GAF shingles work?

Where solar panels are installed on top of a roof, GAF solar shingles are set into the roof like a skylight. This creates a smooth, seamless edge that is water-tight and gives your home a sleek, modern finish. Where solar panels can sometimes detract from your home’s beauty, GAF solar shingles enhance your home’s aesthetics.

As for function, solar shingles work just like solar panels and absorb UV rays from the sun and convert them into electricity for your home. In this way, installing GAF solar shingles can actually save you money in the long run by reducing your monthly energy bill.

Now that we’ve covered some of the best GAF shingles on the market, let’s look at what it takes to get them installed and get the most out of your roofing material.

Choose GAF Master Elite-Certified Roofers

While GAF shingles are great, not just anyone can make the most of them. In order to get the best roofing package, you’ll need the help of a GAF Master Elite-certified roofing company. And that’s for two big reasons.

First, because GAF Master Elite certification allows roofers to get access to the newest GAF shingles. Specifically, only GAF Master Elite contractors can install GAF solar shingles. This is because GAF only entrusts this new roofing technology to roofers who have proven that they follow the best safety and performance guidelines.

And the second big reason you need GAF Master Elite-certified roofers is the warranties. Roofers like Classic can offer the strongest, industry-leading warranties for your new GAF shingles. As an added bonus, our accreditation also allows us to offer manufacturer-backed warranties. What does that mean? If Classic closes down after our 20 years of business, your warranty will still be honored by GAF. And since they’ve been in business since 1886, you can count on them sticking around!

Get Your Free Roof Replacement Estimate

It’s never been easier to get an estimate for your GAF shingle roof replacement. Schedule your inspection online to receive your free roofing quote! Once your roof inspection has been completed, we’ll send you a roof replacement estimate that outlines the costs of your chosen GAF shingles, removal of your old roof, new roof installation, and all other facets of getting a new roof.

Schedule your appointment today and get started on the roof replacement process. We’re your local experts on GAF shingles, and we can’t wait to help you get the perfect new shingle roof for your home.