In North America, about 90% of pitched roofs are covered with asphalt shingles. This petroleum-based product is incredibly popular for roof replacements: studies show that 81% of shingles sold go toward replacing old roofs. So, chances are, if you’re redoing your roof, you’re probably choosing asphalt shingles. But how long until you’ll need to replace them yet again? Let’s take a closer look at what asphalt shingle roofs have to offer, and how to choose the best asphalt roofing shingles (or to choose something altogether better!)

Which are the best asphalt shingles? Well, we might argue that they're the ones that stay in the factory...
Asphalt shingles are made from petroleum and gravel. Non-recyclable, they have a high embodied energy so it's important to choose the best shingles possible. Image © Robert J Pierson

What are the best brands of asphalt shingles for Canada and the USA?

Below, we explore the top asphalt shingle brands available in Canada and the U.S., along with recommendations for the best options based on performance, warranties, and climate suitability.

1. CertainTeed

Overview:
CertainTeed is one of the largest and most trusted roofing brands in North America, offering a wide variety of asphalt shingles designed to meet different needs. From budget-friendly options to premium shingles, CertainTeed is known for producing high-quality products that stand up to harsh weather conditions.

Best Products:

  • Landmark Series: A highly durable, double-layered shingle that offers excellent resistance to weather elements. Landmark shingles come with a lifetime limited warranty and are designed to prevent algae growth, making them a top choice for longevity.
  • NorthGate: A premium option with enhanced impact resistance, ideal for colder climates. These shingles are designed to handle extreme temperatures, ensuring a long-lasting roof even in the harshest winters.
  • Contour Shingles: Featuring a distinctive textured finish, Contour shingles provide a unique look that stands out, while offering strong performance and protection.

Why Choose CertainTeed asphalt shingles:
CertainTeed offers some of the longest warranties in the industry (up to 50 years), making their shingles an excellent investment for long-term protection. Their products are designed for resilience in both extreme heat and cold, which makes them a great choice for various Canadian and U.S. climates.

2. GAF

Overview:
GAF is another leading brand in the North American asphalt shingle market. Known for their innovation, GAF shingles are engineered to provide long-lasting protection while enhancing the curb appeal of your home.

Best Products:

  • Timberline HDZ: One of GAF's most popular products, these shingles feature advanced technology for better wind resistance and improved energy efficiency. They come in a wide range of colors and offer a 50-year limited warranty.
  • Camelot II: A premium shingle that offers a high-end, slate-like appearance. These shingles are perfect for homeowners looking for both beauty and durability, with superior algae resistance.
  • Slateline Shingles: These provide a slate-like aesthetic while maintaining durability and high performance. Ideal for homeowners seeking a sophisticated, upscale look.

Why Choose GAF asphalt shingles:
GAF's Timberline HDZ is especially known for its "LayerLock" technology, which makes it one of the most wind-resistant shingles on the market. Additionally, GAF is widely recognized for its energy-efficient products, which can help reduce cooling costs in warmer climates.

3. Owens Corning

Overview:
Owens Corning is a trusted name in roofing, providing a variety of asphalt shingles with a focus on energy efficiency and innovation. Their products are designed to protect your home while enhancing its energy performance, making them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Best Products:

  • Duration Series: Featuring SureNail® Technology, Owens Corning's Duration shingles offer exceptional wind resistance and are highly durable. These shingles come with a variety of color options, providing both style and function.
  • TruDefinition® Duration Designer Shingles: These designer shingles offer a high-definition look with a vibrant color palette. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, but they also offer excellent protection against wind and weather.
  • Oakridge® Shingles: A more affordable option, Oakridge shingles provide a balance of performance and price, making them ideal for homeowners on a budget without sacrificing quality.

Why Choose Owens Corning asphalt shingles:
Owens Corning is known for its energy-efficient roofing products, particularly those designed to reduce heat absorption. Their shingles are perfect for homeowners looking to improve their home's insulation while benefiting from long-lasting protection.

4. IKO

Overview:
IKO is a Canadian brand that has made a name for itself in both Canada and the U.S. Known for producing durable and affordable asphalt shingles, IKO is a popular choice for homeowners looking for value and reliability.

Best Products:

  • Cambridge Shingles: One of IKO's most popular choices, Cambridge shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, offering long-lasting performance at an affordable price.
  • Royal Estate Shingles: A premium option that delivers high performance and an upscale look. These shingles are designed to handle extreme weather and are ideal for homeowners looking for both functionality and aesthetics.
  • Dynasty Shingles: Known for their wind resistance and durability, Dynasty shingles come in a variety of colors and are perfect for homeowners looking for a reliable and affordable option.

Why Choose IKO asphalt shingles:
IKO is known for offering great value for the money. Their shingles are durable, weather-resistant, and designed to handle a variety of climates, making them a solid choice for both Canadian and U.S. homeowners.

5. Tamko

Overview:
Tamko is a U.S.-based manufacturer that produces reliable asphalt shingles designed for durability and weather resistance. Their products are ideal for homeowners seeking performance at an affordable price point.

Best Products:

  • Heritage Shingles: These shingles offer a traditional look while providing excellent protection from the elements. They are known for their durability and come with a variety of color options.
  • Titan XT Shingles: Designed for high-wind areas, Titan XT shingles are perfect for homeowners living in regions that experience severe weather conditions. They offer superior wind resistance and impact protection.

Why Choose Tamko asphalt shingles:
Tamko's shingles are known for their ability to stand up to tough weather conditions, particularly in regions prone to high winds and extreme temperatures. They provide reliable, cost-effective roofing solutions for homeowners across North America.

Which Asphalt Shingle Brand is Best?

The best asphalt shingles for your home will depend on several factors, including climate, budget, and the level of durability you're seeking. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Durability and Warranty: CertainTeed and GAF are leaders when it comes to durability and long warranties. Their products can last up to 50 years, providing great value for long-term protection.
  • Climate Suitability: For colder climates, CertainTeed’s NorthGate and GAF’s Timberline HDZ offer superior performance. If you’re in a region prone to heavy winds or rain, IKO’s Dynasty and Tamko’s Titan XT are built to withstand extreme conditions.
  • Aesthetics: If curb appeal is important to you, GAF’s Camelot II and Owens Corning’s TruDefinition shingles offer high-end looks that can transform your home’s exterior.
  • Eco-Friendliness: Owens Corning and CertainTeed offer energy-efficient options that can help reduce your home’s cooling costs, making them ideal choices for environmentally conscious homeowners.

When choosing the best asphalt shingles for your home, brands like CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning are among the top choices for durability, weather resistance, and long-term performance. If you're on a budget, IKO and Tamko offer great value without compromising on quality. Whatever your roofing needs, it’s important to consider your climate, warranty options, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

Are asphalt shingles the only choice?

When budgets are tight, asphalt shingles are often seen as the go-to option for roofing. They’re widely available, affordable upfront, and easy to install. Especially in today’s housing market, it’s no surprise that many people opt for them.

But the cheapest option isn’t always the best long-term investment. If you can stretch your budget a little, it’s worth considering alternatives. Some other roofing materials might cost more upfront but are more durable and environmentally friendly, like:

  • Bio-based options: Cedar, larch, or even thatch
  • Mineral-based options: Slate
  • Recycled materials: Rubber-based shingles
  • Metal roof options: Aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, or copper

These alternatives can last much longer and have a smaller environmental impact. If asphalt shingles are your only option, it’s important to know how to pick the right ones and install them properly to make them last as long as possible.

which asphalt shingles are best? We think metal is better
Metal roofing is much more durable and cost-effective over its lifespan compared to asphalt shingles.

How to recognise the best asphalt shingles?

When selecting asphalt shingles for the North American climate, it's crucial to recognize that these materials are often a compromise rather than an ideal roofing solution.

If you must go with asphalt shingles, keep in mind that their lifespan is usually between 15 to 20 years, depending on factors like product quality, installation, and environmental conditions.

What affects the lifespan of asphalt shingles?

Several things determine how long asphalt shingles last:

  • Product quality: Thicker, heavier shingles generally last longer. Architectural shingles, made with fiberglass and mineral surfacing, are currently the best type.
  • Proper installation: Poor installation can shorten a roof’s life significantly.
  • Roof ventilation: Good airflow in the attic or under the roof helps reduce heat buildup, which can damage shingles.
  • Ice dams: Ice daming from poor attic insulation can damage shingles as snow melts and freezes
  • Environmental exposure: Direct sunlight, wind, and extreme weather all take a toll on shingles.
the best asphalt shingles are light-colored and shaded from the sun and 3d profile with a long warranty
Light-colored asphalt shingles, protected by the shade of vegetation, will likely have an extended lifespan especially if a 3d version with an extended warranty - but this is still no guarantee. Image © Robert J Pierson

Are 'lifetime' shingle warranties worth it?

Some asphalt shingles come with warranties labeled as "50 years" or even "lifetime." These can be a helpful indicator of quality, but they’re not always what they seem.

For starters, the 'lifetime' often refers to the product's expected durability under perfect conditions - not real-world use. In practice, even top-tier shingles often last only 20 to 25 years, no matter what the warranty says.

Warranties also come with a lot of fine print. For example, many manufacturers will void your warranty if:

  • Too few or too many nails are used during installation
  • The wrong underlayment is used
  • High-pressure washing has damaged the shingles
  • Solar panels or snow guards are installed
  • Branches, wind, hail, or ice cause damage is evident

Because of these conditions, getting warranty coverage for repairs or replacements is often difficult. Even when coverage applies, you might only get partial reimbursement - and you’ll still need to pay for labor and other costs.

Bardeaux d'asphalte usés par le soleil et une mauvaise pose
Significant shrinkage and deterioration of asphalt shingles due to age and water runoff. The paper eventually shrinks, entire flaps begin to tear, exposing the roofing nails under the flaps. Once the nail heads are exposed, water flowing along the roof can seep around the nail into the interior space, causing roof rot and ceiling damage. Credit: DMahalko, under Creative Commons license.

If you’re choosing asphalt shingles, here’s how to install them for a longer lifespan

If asphalt shingles are your choice, it’s worth installing them the right way to get the most life out of your roof. Start with a solid foundation - use exterior-grade plywood that’s at least 5/8 inch thick for trusses spaced 24 inches apart or 1/2 inch thick for closer spacing. A sturdy base prevents sagging and ensures the shingles lay flat, which is key to their durability.

Next, prioritize proper waterproofing. Install self-adhesive membranes along roof edges and valleys to protect against leaks caused by ice dams or heavy rain. Over the rest of the roof, consider synthetic underlayments, which outperform traditional felt by resisting tears and providing better moisture protection.

When it’s time to nail down the shingles, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully. Typically, this means using four to six nails per shingle, ensuring each nail is driven straight and flush with the surface. Misplaced or overdriven nails can make your roof vulnerable to wind and water damage. Finally, avoid installing shingles in freezing or wet conditions - these can stop the adhesive strips from sealing properly, weakening your roof against future weather challenges. By following these steps, you’ll give your shingles their best chance to last.

Rénover toiture bardeau d'asphalte comment la poser pour prolonger sa vie
How to install the best asphalt shingles to extend their lifespan

Environmental concerns of asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are problematic for the environment. Since they’re made from petroleum byproducts, their production requires a lot of energy. But the biggest issue comes at the end of their life.

Every year, an estimated 245,000 tons of old shingles end up as construction waste. While some are burned for energy recovery, most go straight to landfills. Compared to other roofing materials, this is a significant environmental drawback.

Should you avoid asphalt shingles then?

If possible, yes. There are better options that are more sustainable and, in the long run, cost about the same, or even less when you factor in their durability. Investing in higher-quality materials now can save you money and help the environment in the future. We'd suggest choosing a metal roof over asphalt, and spread the payments over a longer period knowing that it's going to add value to your home, give a much longer lifespan, and stay cleaner, longer.

 

Now you know all about how to choose the best asphalt shingles. Learn more about best practices for energy efficient and durable home construction and renovations in these pages:

Find more about green home construction in the Ecohome Green Building Guide pages - also, learn more about the benefits of a free Ecohome Network Membership here.