Best Roof Shingles in 2024: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Updated on : December 22, 2025,
A residential home with asphalt shingles at nightfall

Summary:

Table of Contents

The best roofing shingles in 2026 have strong wind, fire, and impact ratings, reliable warranties, and broad compatibility with different climates and roof designs. Top options come from manufacturers like GAF, IKO, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Tamko, Atlas, and Malarkey, each offering product lines with different strengths in durability, appearance, and performance. Proper installation, routine maintenance, and timely restoration all play a major role in how long shingles like these last after they’re on.

Time to Read10–12 minutes
What You’ll Learn
  • What to consider before you invest in new shingles
  • The seven best asphalt shingle brands for 2026
  • Wind, fire, and durability ratings for top brands
  • The best material for roofing shingles and tiles
  • How much it costs to install roofing shingles
  • The best color for asphalt shingle roofs
  • How asphalt shingles are tested
Next Steps
  • Consult a roofer
  • Consider roof restoration to extend the life of your existing roof
  • Contact a Roof Maxx dealer in your area for an estimate

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the weather, but it also keeps indoor temperatures stable, helps you control your energy bill, and adds curb appeal. That’s probably why it’s one of the most popular home renovation projects here in the United States! 

 

About 80 percent of homes choose asphalt shingles because they’re durable, affordable, and relatively easy to install. But no two systems are ever exactly alike, so it’s important to understand what the most popular products offer before you spend your hard-earned money on them.

 

In this guide, you’ll learn about the top shingle brands for 2026, which products stand out the most, and what they have to offer. Resources like these are just one of the many ways we’re doing our part here at Roof Maxx to help you get more life out of your asphalt shingle roof!

Infographic with list of What to Consider Before Choosing Roof Shingles

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Roof Shingles

Before we dive into the most popular roof shingle brands, let’s talk a bit about the top factors you should consider when choosing the best asphalt shingles for your home. Modern roofing materials come in many different colors, textures, and finishes, but you do need to think about more than just aesthetics.

 

Keep all of these this in mind as you shop:

  1. Compatibility and Installation Difficulty. Asphalt shingles are broadly compatible with most roofs, but if your current roof is tile or cedar shake, other updates may be necessary before switching to a different roofing material. Be sure to read up on each option, or ask a roofer to check out your top choices, before you install them.

  2. Durability: To get the best value, choose roofing shingles with a high durability rating and strengths that speak to your specific needs. For example, if you live in a hot climate, clay and ceramic tiles will generally perform better than asphalt. Your local roofer can help with this, too.

  3. Maintenance Requirements: When choosing the best roof shingles for your home, consider the upkeep and maintenance required for each material before you make your final decision. Some materials (like cedar shake) will need more upkeep than others (like asphalt shingles).

  4. Energy Efficiency: Solar-reflective granules and other new shingle technologies can help you keep temperatures stable and stay compliant with strict energy standards in some regions. 

  5. Regional & HOA Guidelines: Local building codes and homeowner association guidelines often dictate color and style options. Check these requirements before you make your final choice.

Ultimately, the best shingle for your roof is the one that fits into your budget, provides the most protection from the weather, and looks nice on your roof at the same time.

Before You Buy…

Finally, remember that new shingles are not always necessary! Many homeowners with older asphalt shingles in decent condition can extend their usable life for years to come by opting for roof restoration instead.

 

Roof Maxx uses safe, all-natural oils to restore the flexibility and durability of asphalt shingles. It costs up to 80% less than full roof replacement and can add up to 15 years to the lifespan of your existing roof with repeated applications once every five years.

 

And since new shingle quality is declining while prices continue to rise, keeping your old ones a while longer can be one of the smartest moves you make. But if your roof truly needs replacing, the brands on this list are options worth exploring.

The Best Roof Shingle Brands of 2026

Now that you know the factors to consider when choosing the right roofing shingles for your home, let’s look at the top manufacturers and the products each offers.

General Aniline & Film (GAF) Logo

1. General Aniline & Film (GAF)

GAF shingles come with an automatic lifetime limited warranty and styles that reflect both current and historical designs. No matter where you live, there’s a roofing option from this brand that will fit into the aesthetics of your home and provide plenty of protection.

1. Timberline HDZ® Shingles

Timberline HDZ shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Timberline HDZ Shingles
Pros
  • Affordable and accessible
  • 130 mph wind warranty
  • Class A fire rating
  • Dimensional shadow lines add visual depth
  • StainGuard Plus algae protection with advanced time-release technology
  • Top colors include Charcoal, Weathered Wood, Pewter Gray, and Barkwood
  • EcoDark® granules on dark colors comply with California’s cool-roof standards
Cons
  • Some colors aren’t ENERGY STAR certified
  • Limited extreme weather/impact testing

2. Woodland Shingles

Woodland shingles on a residential house with stone facade
Feature Details
Product Woodland Shingles
Pros
  • Affordable
  • 100% recyclable
  • Sophisticated design
  • Custom color palette
  • Class A fire rating
  • Wind warranty of 130 mph
  • StainGuard Plus algae protection
Cons
  • Not tested for extreme weather/impact damage
  • Not ENERGY STAR rated

3. Timberline UHD

Timberline UHD shingles on a residential home at sunset
Feature Details
Product Timberline UHD
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Good Housekeeping rated
  • Wind rating of 130 mph
  • Architecturally stylish
  • Creates a dimensional wood shake-like look
  • Dura Grip Adhesive reduces the chance of blow-off
  • StainGuard Plus protection reduces staining from blue-green algae
Cons
  • Limited color selection
  • Not extreme weather impact rated

4. Royal Sovereign

Royal Sovereign shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Royal Sovereign
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Excellent durability
  • Upgraded warranties available
  • Highest fire resistance rating
  • Wind-resistant to 60 mph
  • Color Lock Ceramic Firing helps preserve color
  • Made with Advanced Protection Shingle Technology to reduce the number of natural resources needed for production
Cons
  • Warranty costs are unclear

Should You Choose GAF?

GAF is one of the most popular roofing brands in the country and has consistently produced high-quality roofing materials. GAF shingle will safeguard you from most weather elements.
IKO logo

2. IKO

IKO shingles feature lamination for enhanced durability. They also come in a wide range of styles to complement any home’s architectural appearance.

1. Crowne Slate

Crowne Slate shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Crowne Slate
Pros
  • Strong, heavyweight materials
  • Built-in algae resistance and UV protection
  • Gives your home a high end look at a reasonable cost
  • Wind resistant to 130 mph, which reduces curling and water penetration
Cons
  • Lower-rated brand

2. IKO Nordic IR

IKO Nordic IR shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product IKO Nordic IR
Pros
  • Extra blow-off protection
  • Built-in algae resistance
  • Wind-resistant to 130 mph
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Class 4 impact resistance rating
  • Designed to lie down and stay flat
  • Resilient fiberglass mat provides additional strength
Cons
  • Fewer color blends to choose from

3. IKO Cambridge

IKO Cambridge shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product IKO Cambridge
Pros
  • New
  • Competitive pricing
  • Class 3 impact rated
  • Enhanced performance features
  • Trendy colors available
Cons
  • Relatively new product line

4. IKO Marathon

IKO Marathon shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product IKO Marathon
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Fast, easy installation
  • Weather resistant design
  • UV resistant granules
  • Wind-resistant to 60 mph
  • Four color blends available
  • Class A fire resistance rating
Cons
  • Not algae resistant
  • Flat appearance may be undesirable
  • Not Class 4 impact resistance rated

Why Should You Choose IKO?

IKO Shingles provide a wide variety of aesthetic roof options at reasonable prices. The brand’s asphalt shingle options come with built-in algae resistance, UV protection, and a SuperWind Resistance limited warranty of up to 130 mph.
Owens Corning logo

3. Owens Corning

Owens Corning provides a large selection of shingles that stretch across all price ranges and styles. If you’re looking for new shingles, there’s a good chance this brand has at least one style and color that fits your needs.

1. Owens Corning Duration

Owens Corning Duration shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Owens Corning Duration
Pros
  • Resists algae
  • Wind-resistant to 130 mph
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Class H wind resistance rating
  • Large selection of shingles in varied colors
  • Most options are ENERGY STAR certified
  • Designed for use with O.C.’s Total Protection Roofing System
Cons
  • Color variation issues
  • Complaints of warranty misinformation

2. Owens Corning 3-Tab Supreme

Owens Corning 3-Tab Supreme shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductOwens Corning 3-Tab Supreme
Pros
  • 25 year warranty
  • ENERGY STAR rated
  • Wind-resistant to 60 mph
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Class H wind resistance rating
  • Traditional 3 tab appearance
  • Wide selection of colors available
  • Good balance between curb appeal and weather resistance
Cons
  • Less dimensional than premium options
  • Sealing challenges in cold or cloudy conditions

3. Owens Corning Berkshire

Owens Corning Berkshire shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductOwens Corning Berkshire
Pros
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Class H wind resistance rating
  • StreakGuard algae resistance protection
  • Unique shadow lines that add dimension
  • Top-of-the-line shingles create an elegant timeless look
Cons
  • Expensive materials
  • Costly to install

Why Should You Choose Owens Corning?

Owens Corning shingles are second in market share. The company produces high-quality shingles at a great price and has superior customer service compared to other brands. If OC shingles are correctly installed, you can trust that they'll serve you well.
CertainTeed Saint-Gobain logo

4. CertainTeed

CertainTeed shingles are produced from proven roofing technologies and sold at an affordable price. This is a great option for homeowners on a budget.

1. Grand Manor

Grand Manor shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Grand Manor
Pros
  • Wind-resistant to 110 mph
  • Strong impact resistance
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Wide selection of colors
  • Comprehensive warranties available
  • Good for homes with steep sloped roofs
  • 10-year SureStart warranty covers labor and materials for defects
Cons
  • High material and installation costs

2. Landmark TL

Landmark TL shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductLandmark TL
Pros
  • High quality
  • Triple laminated
  • Excellent durability
  • Class-leading warranty
  • Wind resistant to 110 mph
  • Natural, attractive shadow lines
  • Very affordable dimensional shingles
  • Three piece laminated fiberglass construction,
Cons
  • Expensive warranty extensions

3. XT 30 IR

XT 30 IR shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product XT 30 IR
Pros
  • Easy installation
  • Superior impact resistance
  • Comprehensive warranty
  • Designed with self-sealing adhesive strips
  • Extra-strong base to withstand hard impacts
Cons
  • Some customer warranties denied
  • No wind resistance rating/warranty

Why Should You Choose CertainTeed?

CertainTeed shingles are strong and have good consumer ratings. To get the most from them, make sure you choose a roofing contractor who has the skill and experience to install them correctly.
Tamko Building Products Logo

5. Tamko

TAMKO has been an independent manufacturer of shingles for more than 75 years, crafting them with American pride. They provide a wide range of roofing colors and include color tone blending that offers a unique mix of hues perfect for your home.

1. Elite Glass-Seal

Elite Glass-Seal shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Elite Glass Seal
Pros
  • Wind resistant to 70 mph
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Built-in discoloration resistance
  • Made from highly durable fiberglass
  • Highly resistant to significant impact damage
  • Wide selection of vivid shingle colors
Cons
  • More susceptible to tearing under extreme conditions
  • Not a great choice for regions with winds exceeding 60 mph

2. Heritage

Heritage shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Heritage
Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Wind resistant to 110 mph
  • High-quality shingle material
  • 15 different color options available
  • Distinctive granule mix creates vivid colors and textures
Cons
  • Limited warranties

3. Heritage Vintage

Heritage Vintage shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductHeritage Vintage
Pros
  • Thicker than Heritage shingles
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Wind-resistant to 110-130 mph
  • Available in rustic hues and bold textures
  • Adds warmth and dimension to your home
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
  • Difficult to determine warranty costs

Why Should You Choose TAMKO?

TAMKO is the perfect choice for homeowners to get their dream roofs. They help you create authentic and innovative building projects while moving the building material industry forward.
Atlas logo

6. Atlas

Atlas shingles provide the curb appeal and design you want without sacrificing any of the protection your home deserves.

1. Pinnacle Pristine

Pinnacle Pristine shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductPinnacle Pristine
Pros
  • Classic look
  • Built-in algae resistance
  • Comprehensive warranties
  • Very strong and impact-resistant
  • Backed by a limited lifetime warranty
  • Wind resistant to 130 mph (with 4 nails)
Cons
  • May crack if installed over rigid foam insulation
  • Doesn’t seal well if installed in cold weather

2. Castlebrook 35

Castlebrook 35 shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductCastlebrook 35
Pros
  • Available in seven colors
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Wind-resistant up to 130 mph
  • Designed to give your home extra protection
  • Atlas Signature Select Roofing System warranty available
Cons
  • Excessive granule loss in bad weather
  • May be unsuitable for stormy climates

3. ProLam

ProLam shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductProLam
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Signature Select eligible
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Wind-resistant up to 130 mph
  • Available in five black brown and gray shades
  • Scotchgard protected to prevent algae streaks
Cons
  • Only Atlas Pro Plus contractors offer extended Premium Plus warranty
  • Most contractors are not Pro Plus certified

4. StormMaster

StormMaster shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductStormMaster
Pros
  • Class 4 impact resistance rating
  • Wind-resistant up to 150 mph
  • Top-rated for resisting hail damage
  • More styles available than traditional asphalt shingles
Cons
  • Hard to find
  • Warranty details are very specific
  • Installer must be an Atlas Pro for the roof to be eligible for maximum warranty protection

Why Should You Choose Atlas?

Atlas provides excellent lifetime warranties for its high-quality shingles while offering an affordable price. The company provides plenty of color options and styles that complement any home design.
Malarkey Roofing Products logo

7. Malarkey

Malarkey has a solid reputation among consumers and contractors as being among the best roof shingles on the market. They make a range of shingles, from three-tab to designer shingles, that fit most budgets. 

1. Malarkey Dura-Seal AR

Malarkey Dura-Seal AR shingles on a house
Feature Details
Product Malarkey Dura Seal AR
Pros
  • Very durable
  • Algae-resistant
  • Strong reputation for quality
  • Popular among contractors and inspectors
Cons
  • Less variety than other major brands
  • Warranty can be difficult to transfer

2. Legacy Scotchgard

Legacy Scotchgard shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductLegacy Scotchgard
Pros
  • Durable
  • Comes in several darker tones
  • Scotchgard protection includes limited lifetime algae warranty
Cons
  • Still less variety than other major brands
  • Limited warranty

3. Windsor Scotchgard

Windsor Scotchgard shingles on a house
FeatureDetails
ProductWindsor Scotchgard
Pros
  • Durable, high-quality designer shingles
  • Wind-resistant to between 110-140 mph (with proper install)
  • Scotchgard protection includes limited lifetime algae warranty
Cons
  • Less selection than other designer shingles
  • Warranty transfers must be done within 60 days of title transfer

4. Vista AR Shingles

Vista AR Shingles on a home
FeatureDetails
ProductVista AR Shingles
Pros
  • Class 3 hail impact rating
  • Class A fire resistance rating
  • Special granules help clean emission pollutants from the air
  • Has up to 50 percent more adhesive bonds than typical shingles and a larger nailing area
Cons
  • Limited selection
  • Availability may vary depending on region

Why Should You Choose Malarkey?

Malarkey enjoys positive customer reviews from homeowners and contractors. The company’s shingles are designed with extra adhesive bonds to ensure added protection against inclement weather. They also feature larger nailing areas to improve the ease, speed, and accuracy of installation.
A blue Roof Maxx van with branded roof parked in front of a customer's home. Two dealers spray on the treatment in the background.

Get More Life Out of Your Asphalt Shingles With Roof Maxx

 

Choosing the right asphalt shingle roof for your home is just the first step. What’s even more important is how you care for it over the years after it’s on. While yearly inspections and fast repairs help, all asphalt shingles tend to dry out, crack, and become brittle over time.

 

That’s where Roof Maxx comes in. Our all-natural, plant-based roof restoration treatment soaks down deep into your shingles to make them flexible again so they can perform better for longer. It’s an easy way to get more life out of your current roof or whatever you put on next. Get a free quote to see if you qualify!

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Roof Shingles

We’ve discussed the key factors to consider when selecting the best roof shingles for your home and the top manufacturers in the market, but we know you likely still have many questions in mind. Below we’ve provided the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What Is the Best Material for Roofing Shingles and Tiles?

Asphalt shingles are the most popular material on residential structures across the country because of their wide availability, affordability, and durability. Slate and clay tiles are also durable but more expensive and difficult to maintain than other roofing options like metal and wood.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Roofing Shingles and Tiles?

A new asphalt shingle installation can cost $10,000 or more, but the final figure will depend on the type of material you choose, local labor costs, and even the size or design of your home.  Use our convenient Roof Replacement Cost Calculator to get a ballpark figure.

What Is the Best Color for Roofing Shingles and Tiles?

Shingle color can affect the appearance of your property, including its size. Darker shades can make objects appear smaller and more compact, while lighter colors can make objects look larger and closer.

 

If you have a smaller home, it’s best to opt for light-colored shingles to make the structure look bigger. It’s also important to consider the style of roof you have and other elements in or around your home, such as the siding and other architectural elements of its exterior.

What Is the Average Lifespan of Shingles?

The best roof shingles are marketed to last between 25 to 50 years, but some roofs don’t last more than 7 to 10 years. A variety of factors affect the lifespan of your roof, including climate, roof design, proper installation, correct maintenance, and using the right materials.

 

Long-term exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause your shingles to deteriorate quickly. They lose their flexibility, durability, and waterproofing, which leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and other structural damage. If you notice your shingles are cracked or curled or missing granules, it could be time for a serious roof repair or replacement.

 

Roof maintenance is an essential tool in making sure your roof has a long and healthy life. Roof Maxx can help extend the life of your asphalt shingle roof by up to 15 years and save you 85% on what a replacement would cost.

How Are Asphalt Shingles Tested?

When it comes to asphalt shingles, there’s a specific level of quality called an AC438 level; these shingles are considered the best of the best. To receive this title, shingles must withstand the tests of temperature, wind, and weather.

 

  1. During the temperature test, the shingle is faced with 12-24 hours of extreme heat or cold, dunked in water, and then inspected closely. If there is no wear and tear on the shingle, it moves on to the next test: weather.
  2. When testing weather durability, the shingle must alternate between hours in the sun and the water. After this test, the asphalt and foundations of the shingle are checked before it moves on to the final test: wind resistance.
  3. During the wind test, the shingle is placed on a slope, simulating a roof. Then, it’s exposed to periods of increasingly harsh conditions of rain and wind.

Tests like these help companies get a good idea of how well their shingles will withstand the weather right out of the box. But it’s important to remember that even highly-durable products will still need to be inspected yearly and repaired quickly if any issues arise, especially after storms.

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Picture of Georgios Karakitsios
Georgios Karakitsios
George Karakitsios owns the website and marketing technology behind Roof Maxx. He has spent more than 12 years building web experiences for homeowners and Roof Maxx customers.
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