Overview
CertainTeed and GAF are two of the three dominant shingle manufacturers in North America. Both produce asphalt shingles across a full range of product tiers, from standard architectural to premium designer options. CertainTeed tends to be especially strong in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic markets, while GAF has strong national distribution. Both offer comparable quality at equivalent product tiers.
Product Lines at a Glance
| Category | GAF | CertainTeed |
|---|---|---|
| Standard architectural | Timberline HDZ | Landmark |
| Mid-range architectural | Timberline CS (Cool Series) | Landmark Pro |
| Impact-resistant | Timberline ArmorShield II | Landmark IR |
| Premium | Camelot II, Grand Sequoia | Presidential Shake, Carriage House |
Warranty Programs
- GAF: Limited Lifetime base warranty (architectural shingles). Enhanced tiers: System Plus (Certified Contractor), Golden Pledge (Master Elite). Non-prorated period varies by tier.
- CertainTeed: SureStart warranty on standard products (varies by product). SureStart Plus for SELECT ShingleMaster contractor installations. 5-Star Warranty for top-tier SELECT installs. Both include coverage for materials and workmanship when using certified contractors.
Both brands offer their most comprehensive warranty coverage only when installation is performed by a certified contractor using the full manufacturer-approved product system. Read warranty terms carefully -- coverage details differ meaningfully between tiers.
How to Decide Between Them
- Which certified contractor is available in your area with strong local references?
- Which brand does your preferred contractor work with regularly (their installation experience matters)?
- What colors and profiles are available in your specific product preference?
- Compare warranty terms at the specific tier available with local contractors
Related: GAF vs Owens Corning and Best Roofing Shingles for 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CertainTeed a good brand of shingles?
Yes. CertainTeed is one of the oldest and most established shingle manufacturers in North America, with a history dating to 1904. CertainTeed shingles are widely used in both residential and commercial applications. The company has a strong certified contractor program (SELECT ShingleMaster and Master Shingle Applicator tiers) and competitive warranty offerings. CertainTeed is generally considered on par with GAF and Owens Corning at comparable product tiers.
What is CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster certification?
SELECT ShingleMaster is CertainTeed's certified contractor program, similar to GAF's Master Elite program. Contractors who achieve SELECT ShingleMaster status can offer SureStart Plus warranty protection and access to the 5-Star Warranty tier. The certification requires training, background checks, and demonstrated installation standards. Only a small percentage of contractors achieve the top certification tier.
Which brand has better shingle color options?
Both GAF and CertainTeed offer extensive color lines. CertainTeed is widely recognized for its broad color palette and dimensional design options -- the Landmark and Landmark Pro lines offer numerous blend options. GAF's Timberline series also has significant color variety. The specific color selection depends on your contractor's preferred brand and regional availability. Ask to see current color samples, as product lines change annually.
Find a Contractor in Your City
Product specifications and warranty terms change. Verify current terms directly with the manufacturer. This page is not affiliated with CertainTeed or GAF.