In 2016, asphalt shingles dominated the residential roofing market for their balance of cost, performance, and ease of installation. This article examines the best asphalt shingle options available that year, highlighting key brands, features, warranties, and practical considerations to help homeowners choose a durable, long-lasting roof. Readers will gain insight into what made certain shingles stand out in 2016 and how those characteristics translated to value and peace of mind for the typical American home.
Top Asphalt Shingle Brands In 2016
Several manufacturers led the market in 2016 with a mix of architectural and laminate shingles designed for enhanced curb appeal and performance. Notable options included:
- GAF Timberline HD — Known for dimensional look, consistent color blends, and strong fire resistance. The Timberline HD line emphasized dimensional complexity for a more architectural appearance and good hail resistance for many U.S. climates.
- Owens Corning Duration and Duration Designer — Popular for long warranty terms, algae resistance, and robust warranty transferability. The line offered multiple shingle textures and color families to match various home styles.
- CertainTeed Landmark — Distinguished by a thick, dimensional profile and solid warranty coverage. Landmark shingles were favored for heavy winds and a smooth installation experience in many regions.
- IKO Cambridge and Dynasty Series — Recognized for value in the mid-range price segment, with variants aimed at wind resistance and diverse aesthetics.
- f Styline or Other Regional Brands — Local or regional options sometimes offered competitive performance and availability tied to climate and installation crews in specific markets.
In 2016, the market also emphasized features like algae resistance (streaking prevention), better granule adhesion, and improved installation guidelines to maximize warranty protection. Homeowners often paired these shingles with compatible underlayments and starter shingles to optimize overall performance.
What Made Shingles Stand Out In 2016
The standout qualities in 2016 bridged aesthetics, durability, and practical warranties. Key differentiators included:
- Architectural/Dimensional Look — Shingles with multiple layers and varied depths offered a more natural, textured appearance that mimicked slate or wood shakes, boosting curb appeal without the cost of premium materials.
- Warranties And Transferability — Many top brands extended limited lifetime warranties with specific coverage for manufacturing defects, no-fault workmanship, and sometimes wind resistance up to 110–130 mph, depending on the product and region.
- Algae and Fade Resistance — Infrared-resistant pigments and algae-inhibiting granules helped prevent unsightly streaking in humid climates and regions with high rainfall.
- Impact and Wind Performance — Shingles designed to resist hail impact and high wind uplift were favored in areas prone to severe weather, aligning with building code enhancements in many states.
- Installation Compatibility — Systems that paired well with starter courses, underlayments, and attic venting improvements contributed to better overall roof performance and warranty continuity.
Homeowners in 2016 also benefited from expanded color palettes and improved color-fastness, allowing homes to maintain visual appeal longer between refinishing or replacement projects.
Cost, Value, And Warranties In 2016
Pricing for asphalt shingles varied by brand, shingle type, and regional labor costs, but several trends defined value in 2016:
- Material Costs — Architectural or laminate shingles commanded higher per-square-foot prices than three-tab options, but offered superior durability and aesthetics that could increase home value.
- Warranty Coverage — The most common options included 30-year, 40-year, or lifetime limited warranties. Transferability often enhanced resale value, though some warranties required proper ventilation, attic insulation, and roof structure integrity to remain valid.
- Wind Resistance — Many top lines promised wind warranties around 110–130 mph, ideal for regions with strong storm seasons. Meeting installation guidelines was critical to maintain wind coverage.
- Algae Resistance Premium — Algae-resistant (AR) shingles carried a premium but helped preserve appearance in warm, humid climates, potentially reducing maintenance costs over time.
For budgeting, homeowners could expect initial material costs to comprise a substantial portion of the project, with labor often representing a significant share as well. The total cost depended on roof size, pitch, existing decking, and local permitting requirements.
Installation Considerations And Longevity
Proper installation was a major determinant of longevity and warranty validity in 2016. Key practices included:
- Ventilation And Deck Condition — Adequate attic ventilation reduced heat buildup and moisture, extending shingle life and enhancing energy efficiency.
- Underlayment And Starter Strips — Using compatible underlayment and starter strips helped prevent leaks at eaves and rakes, contributing to better wind uplift resistance.
- Proper Nailing — Following manufacturer nailing patterns and ensuring nails penetrate the decking consistently protected against wind uplift and lifted tabs.
- Color And Slope Compatibility — Selecting colors that reflect heat and shading considerations for the home’s orientation could affect temperature-related wear, while roof slope influenced shingle performance under wind and water intrusion pressures.
- Maintenance Practices — Regular inspection after severe weather, cleaning from debris, and addressing curling or missing tabs promptly supported longer service life.
In practice, homeowners who invested in higher-end architectural shingles from reputable brands and adhered to installation guidelines generally reported longer service life and lower lifecycle costs, even if upfront costs were higher.
How To Choose The Right Shingle In 2016
Choosing the best asphalt shingle in 2016 involved aligning product attributes with local climate, budget, and home design. Consider these criteria:
- Climate And Weather Patterns — Regions with strong winds or hail potential benefited from wind-resistant shingles and impact-rated options.
- Roof Slope And Structure — Steeper pitches enhanced water shedding but required careful installation to ensure proper ventilation and attic access.
- Color And Aesthetic — Architectural shingles offered a premium look with varied textures, helping to achieve a cohesive exterior design.
- Warranty Details — Review transferability, exclusions, maintenance requirements, and whether wind or algae resistance is included.
- Service Availability — Availability of installer networks and local contractor familiarity with the brand could influence long-term performance and warranty claims.
Ultimately, homeowners in 2016 could maximize value by selecting a reputable brand with a robust warranty, ensuring correct installation, and maintaining the roof according to manufacturer guidelines. This approach balanced upfront costs with long-term durability, appearance, and resale appeal.