Interested in GAF shingles for your roof replacement? Trying to decide between GAF’s Timberline NS shingles and Timberline HDZ shingles?
GAF’s Timberline shingles are one of the most popular shingle lines in the United States. With the two most common being Timberline NS and Timberline HDZ.
However, there are major differences between these two GAF shingles. So, you need to know how they match up to determine which one, if either, is right for you.
For over 35 years, Bill Ragan Roofing has taken pride in simplifying complex technical information so homeowners can make informed decisions. Now, I’ll put GAF’s Timberline NS shingles against Timberline HDZ shingles to see which one fits your wants and needs.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- What are GAF Timberline NS shingles? (Quick overview of benefits and warranties)
- What are GAF Timberline HDZ shingles? (Quick overview of benefits and warranties)
- Timberline NS shingles vs. Timberline HDZ shingles
What are GAF Timberline NS shingles?
GAF’s Timberline NS shingle is an architectural shingle part of the best-selling Timberline series. The “NS” stands for Natural Shadow, which provides an even-toned look with the warmth of natural wood.
(Image provided by gaf.com)
Timberline NS is the lowest quality of the Timberline shingle line, but it still offers:
- 7 color options (availability varies by location)
- Algae resistance
- Class A fire-resistance rating (highest rating available)
- Class F Wind-Resistance (110 mph, upgradable to 130 mph with GAF accessories)
GAF offers a lifetime-limited warranty on their Timberline NS shingles. On top of the main warranty, GAF also provides the following warranties:
- 10-year Smart Choice Protection Period (pays a “reasonable” price for replacement and labor costs due to manufacturing defects)
- 10-year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty against blue-green algae discoloration
GAF Timberline NS shingles are a good option for homeowners with a tighter budget but still want a quality roof. However, they don’t offer the same performance benefits as other Timberline shingles.
What are GAF Timberline HDZ shingles?
GAF’s Timberline HDZ® shingle is one of the best-selling architectural asphalt shingles on the market. The high-dimensional wood-shake look and GAF’s patented High Definition® shadows create exceptional depth and dimension.
(Image provided by gaf.com)
Below are the performance perks that GAF’s Timberline HDZ asphalt shingles offer:
- 23 color options (availability varies by location)
- Class 3 impact rating
- Algae resistance
- Patented LayerLock™ Technology and StrikeZone™
- Advanced Protection Shingle with GAF Dura Grip Adhesive
- Class A fire-resistance rating
- Class F Wind-Resistance (110 mph, upgradable to 130 mph with GAF accessories)
Like all GAF products, Timberline HDZ shingles come with a lifetime-limited warranty. On top of this warranty, the shingles also come with the following warranties:
- 10-year Smart Choice Protection Period (pays a “reasonable” price for replacement and labor costs due to manufacturing defects)
- 25-year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty
- 15-year, 130 mph WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty (requires a combination of GAF accessories)
With a focus on affordability, GAF Timberline HDZ offers your home advanced roof protection from eave to ridge.
Timberline NS shingles vs. Timberline HDZ shingles
GAF’s Timberline HDZ shingle is the better shingle when compared to the Timberline NS shingle. However, it’s still up to you to decide which one is right for you.
Let's see the matchup with a side-by-side comparison with all the important information.
As you can see from the infographic, Timberline HDZ shingles offer much more than Timberline NS shingles. The Class 3 impact rating, LayerLock™ Technology, and warranties simply make it a better quality shingle.
Timberline NS shingles just don't perform as well or come with all the protections Timberline HDZ shingles have. However, Timberline NS shingles are still a quality option at a lower price point.
But at the end of the day, it’s your decision. Just consider your budget, how long you plan on living in your home, and what warranties are important to you.
What other GAF shingles should you consider?
After reading this article, you now know how GAF’s Timberline NS shingles and Timberline HDZ shingles match up. As I said, Timberline HDZ is the better quality option.
However, Timberline NS is still a good option at a cheaper price. I’m confident you can make the right choice with the information here.
But before deciding, there are other GAF shingles you should consider. In fact, GAF even makes more variations of Timberline shingles.
That’s why I wrote another article breaking down the best shingles homeowners should consider if they’re interested in GAF.
Check out The 5 Best GAF Shingles to learn the other great options GAF has to ensure you make the best decision for your upcoming roof replacement.
