Updated August 2026. CertainTeed and GAF both make laminated architectural shingles used on Florida homes. Statewide Roofing, Windows & Doors specs both. This is how we walk the choice: product line, warranty paperwork, heat, and who is installing it. It is not a brand trophy.

Quick answer

CertainTeed Landmark (and Presidential Shake when the look calls for it) is the line we recommend more often when the homeowner wants a heavier architectural profile, a wide color range, and the SureStart-style labor-and-materials window on a qualifying product.

GAF Timberline is a legitimate architectural shingle. It is often the right bid when color, availability, and first cost line up, or when the job is already in a GAF system (including a Golden Pledge path with a certified installer).

In South Florida, nailing pattern, underlayment, ventilation, and flashing fail more roofs than the logo on the wrapper.

CertainTeed vs GAF at a glance


CertainTeed
GAF
Flagship architectural line
Landmark / Landmark PRO / Premium; Presidential Shake for a thicker shake look
Timberline HDZ and related Timberline lines
Florida heat
Landmark Solaris solar-reflective options (ENERGY STAR on qualifying products)
Timberline Cool Series and other reflective options (ENERGY STAR on qualifying products)
Warranty shape
Limited lifetime on qualifying Landmark, with a SureStart period covering materials and labor for manufacturing defects when terms are met
Limited lifetime on qualifying Timberline, with Golden Pledge and other enhanced warranties available through certified installers (terms apply)
Best fit in our bids
Homeowners who want Landmark’s profile and color range, or to match an existing CertainTeed roof
Jobs already in a GAF system, or where Timberline color and first cost win the side-by-side

Always read the actual warranty for the product, slope, and who is registered as the installer. Marketing “lifetime” is not a blank check. We do not quote coverage we have not put in writing.

What actually matters on a Florida roof

  • Wind: Ask for the wind rating on the exact shingle and the fastening pattern we will use here. Brand loyalty does not replace nails.
  • Heat: Reflective granules help roof-surface temperature. They do not replace attic ventilation.
  • Impact: If hail or impact resistance is in the spec, confirm the rating on the exact product, not the family name.
  • Look: Compare chips on the house, not a brochure. HOA color rules still apply.

When we spec CertainTeed

  • You want Landmark or Presidential Shake’s dimensional look
  • You care about the SureStart-style coverage window on a qualifying line
  • You are matching an existing CertainTeed roof

When GAF can win the bid

  • The roof is a straightforward architectural reroof and Timberline is the better color or lead-time fit
  • You want a GAF enhanced warranty path (Golden Pledge or similar) with a certified installer
  • You are matching an existing GAF roof

FAQ

Is CertainTeed better than GAF?

Statewide specs both. Landmark is the line we recommend more often for profile and color range. Timberline is still a real architectural shingle. Quote both on the same roof and the same underlayment plan, and read the actual warranty.

Do these shingles replace impact windows?

No. Shingles need the right wind rating, fastening, and a tight deck. Impact windows and a roof are a system.

Will this lower insurance?

Sometimes, if the product and the rest of the roof meet what your carrier wants on a wind-mitigation form. Get the spec in writing before you assume a discount.

Also see CertainTeed vs TAMKO if TAMKO is in the mix.

Get both quoted on your roof

Statewide Roofing, Windows & Doors will look at the roof, the openings, and the wind zone as one job. Call (561) 816-4010 or request a free estimate. Bring photos of the current roof and any HOA color rules.