What is the difference between GAF and Owens Corning shingle warranty?

Both GAF and Owens Corning offer Lifetime Limited shingle warranties. GAF's Golden Pledge provides up to 25 years of workmanship coverage with tear-off and disposal included. Owens Corning Platinum Preferred offers lifetime workmanship coverage. GAF requires GAF-certified installers, while Owens Corning requires Platinum Preferred contractors. Both offer 130 MPH wind warranties when properly installed.

What does a 30-year shingle warranty actually cover?

A 30-year shingle warranty covers manufacturing defects in the shingle materials for 30 years. This includes premature cracking, curling, granule loss, or other defects not caused by weather or installation. However, labor coverage is typically only 5-10 years unless you purchase enhanced workmanship coverage. The warranty does NOT cover storm damage, improper ventilation damage, or installation errors.

What is a 5 year workmanship warranty for roofing?

A 5-year workmanship warranty covers installation errors by the roofing contractor for 5 years after installation. This includes leaks from improper flashing, incorrect nail placement, missing starter shingles, and other labor-related failures. This is separate from the manufacturer warranty which covers material defects. Most basic installations include 5-year workmanship, while certified contractor programs offer 10-25 year extended coverage.

Is a GAF shingle warranty transferable?

Yes, GAF shingle warranties are transferable once to a second owner. You must notify GAF within 60 days of the property sale. There may be a transfer fee ($50-$100). The transferred warranty is typically reduced from Lifetime to 20 years for the new owner. GAF Golden Pledge and System Plus warranties maintain better coverage when transferred than standard warranties.

Which shingle warranty is best for hurricane zones?

For hurricane zones like Myrtle Beach, SC, we recommend Atlas StormMaster (150 MPH wind rating, Class 4 impact resistance), GAF Timberline HDZ (130 MPH with LayerLock), or Owens Corning Duration (130 MPH with SureNail). All three offer transferable, non-prorated warranties when installed by certified contractors. Atlas provides the highest wind rating, making it ideal for coastal Carolina conditions.

What voids a roof shingle warranty?

Common warranty-voiding issues include: improper attic ventilation (the #1 cause), installation by unlicensed contractors, failure to register the warranty within 30-60 days, walking on the roof causing damage, power washing shingles, installing satellite dishes without proper flashing, painting or coating shingles, and not maintaining gutters and drainage. Always read the specific exclusions before installation.

What is the difference between pro-rated and non-prorated roof warranties?

A pro-rated warranty decreases in value over time. For example, after 15 years you might only receive 50% of the original coverage value. A non-prorated warranty provides full replacement value for the entire warranty period. Non-prorated warranties are significantly better - if your roof fails in year 20, you get full coverage, not a fraction. Look for warranties that are non-prorated for at least the first 10-15 years.

How long does an Owens Corning shingle warranty last?

Owens Corning offers Lifetime Limited warranties on their Duration, TruDefinition, and Oakridge shingle lines. The material warranty covers manufacturing defects for the life of your home. Labor coverage varies: standard is 10 years with Preferred contractors, and lifetime workmanship with Platinum Preferred contractors. The warranty is transferable to a second owner with coverage reduced to 20 years.

Roof Warranty Comparison Tool 2025

Compare GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Malarkey, IKO, and Atlas shingle warranties side-by-side. Understand workmanship vs manufacturer coverage, pro-rated terms, and what's actually covered.

✓ 6 Major Manufacturers✓ Side-by-Side Comparison✓ Workmanship Analysis✓ Updated for 2025

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Select Manufacturers to Compare Side-by-Side

Atlas

StormMaster Slate

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

150 MPH

Algae Protection

Lifetime (Scotchgard)

Labor Coverage

10 Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

✓Non-Prorated (full value)

⚠Registration Required

Key Highlights:

• Core4 enhanced polymer technology
• Class 4 impact rating (StormMaster)
• Signature Select color-matching

Best For: Storm-prone areas like Myrtle Beach coastal regions

CertainTeed

Landmark

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

110 MPH (Standard), 130 MPH (Max Def)

Algae Protection

15 Years

Labor Coverage

5-20 Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

⚠Pro-Rated (diminishing value)

✓No Registration Needed

Key Highlights:

• No registration required for base warranty
• 5-Star coverage with certified installers
• NorthGate impact-resistant option

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners or DIY-friendly warranty

GAF

Timberline HDZ

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

130 MPH

Algae Protection

25 Years

Labor Coverage

25 Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

✓Non-Prorated (full value)

⚠Registration Required

Key Highlights:

• StainGuard Plus algae protection
• LayerLock technology for wind resistance
• Golden Pledge extends labor to 25 years

Best For: Homeowners wanting maximum coverage with certified contractor installation

IKO

Cambridge

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

130 MPH

Algae Protection

10 Years

Labor Coverage

5-15 Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

⚠Pro-Rated (diminishing value)

⚠Registration Required

Key Highlights:

• ArmourZone nailing area
• Iron Clad protection
• High definition colors

Best For: Value-focused homeowners wanting solid protection

Malarkey

Vista AR

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

110 MPH

Algae Protection

25 Years

Labor Coverage

10 Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

✓Non-Prorated (full value)

⚠Registration Required

Key Highlights:

• NEX polymer modified asphalt
• Scotchgard algae protection
• SMOG-reducing granules option

Best For: Eco-conscious homeowners in moderate climates

Owens Corning

Duration

Warranty

Lifetime Limited

Wind Rating

130 MPH

Algae Protection

10 Years (StreakGuard)

Labor Coverage

10-Lifetime Years

✓Transferable to New Owner

✓Non-Prorated (full value)

⚠Registration Required

Key Highlights:

• SureNail Technology for 130 MPH wind rating
• Platinum Preferred includes lifetime workmanship
• StreakGuard algae resistance

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing wind resistance and aesthetic options

Get Expert Warranty Guidance for Your Roof

Weather Shield Roofing is a GAF Master Elite and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred contractor, qualifying you for the best warranty coverage available. Schedule your free consultation today.

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