Owens Corning is a leading manufacturer of roofing products in the United States, known for its innovation, durability, and customer-focused approach. For U.S. homeowners and professionals, understanding the product characteristics, warranty conditions, and specialized technologies of Owens Corning roofing materials is essential for making informed decisions regarding roofing projects. Drawing from verified technical information provided in the relevant documentation, this article outlines key specifications, performance metrics, and product features related to Owens Corning shingles and their installation.
Core Features and Technical Specifications
Owens Corning offers a range of architectural shingles with distinct performance benefits. These shingles are designed to provide long-term protection and aesthetic value for residential structures. According to the data provided, one of the prominent series, the Duration® Series Shingles, includes advanced features such as SureNail® Technology, Triple Layer Protection®, and TruDefinition® color platform, specifically engineered to enhance durability and visual appeal.
The SureNail® Technology is a patented enhancement integrated into the nailing zone of the shingles. This technology includes a unique fabric strip that increases the shingle’s grip and resistance to wind uplift. It provides an added layer of durability, ensuring that the roof performs optimally even in extreme weather conditions.
In terms of sizing and coverage, each shingle has the following nominal dimensions:
- Size: 13 1/4" x 39 3/8"
- Exposure (the portion of the shingle visible between each layer): 5 5/8"
- Shingles per roofing square (100 square feet): 64
These standardized dimensions help in calculating the quantity of materials required for a given roof area. It is important to note that these figures are based on nominal values and may vary slightly in practice.
Wind Resistance and Sealant Performance
Wind is one of the primary environmental factors that can affect the longevity of a roof. Owens Corning certifies its shingles to meet industry-recognized wind resistance standards, tested in independent third-party laboratories. The 130 mph (209 kph) wind resistance rating is a significant feature, indicating that the shingles are suitable for high-wind conditions typically encountered in many parts of the U.S., including hurricane-prone coastal regions and windier mountainous or plains areas.
The performance of the sealant is also an important consideration in wind resistance. A high-quality sealant ensures that the shingles remain tightly bonded to the roof deck, minimizing the risk of uplift. As per the documentation, Owens Corning emphasizes the role of sealant performance as one of the key contributors to the wind resistance of its shingles.
Algae Resistance and Longevity
A common concern for homeowners, especially in warm and humid climates, is the formation of blue-green algae on roofing surfaces. This can lead to unattractive black streaks that diminish the curb appeal of a property. Owens Corning addresses this issue with its proprietary StreakGuard® Algae Resistance Protection.
The StreakGuard® feature utilizes copper-lined granules that inhibit algae growth. These granules are integrated into the shingle's composition and are designed to remain effective for approximately 25 years, depending on environmental conditions and maintenance. It is noteworthy that this technology is tailored to meet the needs of specific regional climates in the U.S., reflecting Owens Corning’s localized approach to roofing solutions.
Warranty and Installation Considerations
Owens Corning offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty for shingles installed under specified conditions. The warranty coverage is a strong indicator of the company’s confidence in its product quality and long-term performance. However, to ensure full benefits, the documentation highlights the following important requirement:
- Contractor Registration: If homeowners opt for any of the extended warranty options, it is essential to register the roof with Owens Corning through the Roofing Preferred Contractor or Platinum Preferred Contractor network. This step confirms that the installation was performed by a qualified professional and entitles the homeowner to the warranty’s full protections.
- Proof of Purchase: Homeowners are also advised to obtain and retain proof of purchase and communicate with their contractors to ensure proper registration.
The importance of contractor involvement is further underscored in the documentation, which emphasizes that proper installation techniques, including adherence to nailing zones and ventilation requirements, play a critical role in optimizing the performance of the roofing system.
Visualization and Design Tools
To help homeowners choose the most suitable shingle color and design, Owens Corning provides Design EyeQ®, a software that allows users to upload images of their homes and visualize the effect of different roofing options. This tool is particularly useful for decision-making when considering:
- Color matching with exterior design elements
- Local climate considerations (such as sunlight exposure and regional shade preferences)
- Future resale value improvement through curb appeal
The visualization feature is accessible to all users and offers the flexibility to share images via email or social media for feedback from designers, real estate agents, or contractors. For those interested in a more traditional approach, Owens Corning also offers printed sample posters, allowing homeowners to view the colors in person before finalizing a selection.
Additional Product Options
Beyond the architectural shingles, Owens Corning provides a range of supplementary roofing materials that cater to specific construction requirements and weather patterns in the U.S. These include:
- Trumbull® PINKWRAP® Hip and Ridge Shingles: Designed to enhance the aesthetics of roof intersections while providing durability.
- Starter Shingles: Used to create a secure base layer during installation, improving overall stability.
- Ice and Water Barrier: A premium underlayment that protects against ice damming and water intrusion in colder climates.
- Synthetic Underlayment: A lightweight but highly durable underlayment offering protection during installation and extreme weather.
- Intake and Exhaust Ventilation Products: Designed to support proper attic airflow, which is essential for regulating temperature and moisture levels.
- Titanium® Products: High-performance solutions for unique construction and weather challenges.
- RhinoRoof®: A line of products designed for durability in a variety of applications.
These materials are part of Owens Corning's broader roofing system and are recommended for inclusion in comprehensive roofing projects. Their availability through the Document Library allows contractors and planners to access detailed specifications and installation instructions as needed.
Installation Requirements and Best Practices
Though specific installation instructions in PDF format are referenced in the source material—particularly associated with Official Product Manuals and Roofing Network Partners—the data provided does not contain those full guides. Nevertheless, the documentation emphasizes certain key installation best practices:
- Ventilation Management: Proper attic ventilation is essential to prevent moisture accumulation and prolong the shingles’ performance. Tools such as the Ventilation Calculator provided by Owens Corning help in determining the correct balance of intake and exhaust vents.
- Nailing Zones: Shingles must be installed according to nailing zone performance guidelines. These rules vary based on wind zone classifications and are outlined in the manufacturer’s technical documentation. Deviating from recommended nailing patterns may void the warranty.
- Product Compatibility: When selecting materials (such as underlayment or hip and ridge products), it is vital to ensure that all components are compatible with the primary shingle series to maintain structural integrity and warranty compliance.
While the instructions are not presented in their full technical form here, homeowners and contractors are encouraged to access the Document Library through the official website for detailed, printable instructions.
Contractor and Industry Tools
Owens Corning offers a suite of tools designed to support the roofing professional community, including:
- DIY Roofing 101: A beginner's guide to understanding roofing fundamentals, ideal for property owners who may want to oversee or consult on major roofing decisions.
- Build Your Roof®: A system that allows roofing contractors to assemble and specify a comprehensive roof configuration using Owens Corning products.
- Website Tools and Roofer Tech Stacks: Emerging tools that integrate digital workflows and project planning for roofing professionals.
- Contractor Events and Community: Programs such as the Pantera Pros | Latino Contractor Community aim to foster collaboration and education within the roofing industry.
- Member Resources: These include downloadable manuals, technical bulletins, and training materials accessible to Owens Corning-certified contractors.
These tools are designed to streamline communication, ensure compliance with technical standards, and ultimately improve the quality of roofing installations across the U.S.
Conclusion
Owens Corning roofing products, including the Duration® Series Shingles, present a compelling option for U.S. homeowners seeking long-lasting, visually appealing, and high-performing roofing solutions. The integration of proprietary technologies such as StreakGuard®, SureNail®, and TruDefinition® ensures that these shingles meet both aesthetic and functional demands. However, the full potential of these products is realized only through proper installation by trained professionals, adherence to ventilation and nailing zone requirements, and careful engagement with the manufacturer's technical documentation.
From wind resistance ratings and algae prevention to color visualization tools and supplementary materials like underlayment and ventilation products, Owens Corning offers a comprehensive roofing system tailored to the U.S. climate and housing market. For homeowners and contractors alike, the company’s technical resources, warranties, and contractor networks serve as foundational elements to ensure a successful and sustainable roofing project.