Owens Corning Duration shingles are a premium roofing solution designed for durability, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. These shingles are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and hail. With a variety of styles and colors available, they offer homeowners a balance between performance and visual appeal. Additionally, the shingles come with robust warranty options and advanced technologies like SureNail® and enhanced impact resistance. This article explores the key features of Owens Corning Duration shingles, outlines the installation process, and evaluates the factors that influence cost and value.
Key Features and Technologies
Owens Corning Duration shingles incorporate several advanced technologies that enhance their performance and longevity. One of the most notable features is SureNail® Technology, which includes a specialized fabric strip in the shingle that reinforces the nailing zone. This design ensures that nails are held more securely, reducing the risk of wind uplift and providing a tighter installation.
Another critical feature is enhanced impact resistance. Some Duration shingle lines, particularly the Flex Class 4 variant, are rated Class 4 for impact resistance. This is the highest possible rating and indicates that the shingles can endure significant hail damage without cracking or breaking. This feature is especially valuable for homes located in regions prone to severe weather.
Duration shingles are also designed to resist granule loss, a common issue that can degrade the appearance and protective qualities of a roof over time. By minimizing granule loss, these shingles maintain their visual appeal and protective capabilities for a longer period.
In terms of energy efficiency, certain lines of Duration shingles—such as the Duration COOL series—feature reflective granules that reduce heat absorption. This can lead to lower cooling costs in warmer climates, making them an energy-conscious choice for homeowners.
The fire resistance of Owens Corning Duration shingles is also a standout feature. These shingles carry a Class A fire rating, the highest possible rating, which means they offer excellent protection against fire hazards.
Available Types and Styles
Owens Corning Duration shingles are available in multiple types and styles to suit a range of architectural preferences and performance needs. The two most popular variants are the Owens Corning Duration Class 3 Shingle and the Owens Corning Flex Class 4 Shingle.
The Class 3 variant offers strong impact resistance and is suitable for homes in areas with moderate weather conditions. The Flex Class 4 is designed for more extreme environments and provides the highest level of protection against hail and wind damage.
In addition to these, the TruDefinition Duration Designer Shingles are tailored for homeowners who want a bold and distinctive roof. These shingles use TruDefinition color technology to deliver vibrant, high-contrast hues. They are available in a range of unique colors, including Summer Harvest, Storm Cloud, Pacific Wave, Sedona Canyon, and Black Sable, allowing for a customized and eye-catching roof design.
Installation Process and Considerations
The installation of Owens Corning Duration shingles should be carried out by a certified Owens Corning contractor to ensure proper application and to maintain the manufacturer's warranty. The process typically involves the following steps:
Roof Preparation: Before installing new shingles, the existing roof must be assessed. If the current roofing material is damaged or degraded, a full tear-off may be necessary. This process involves removing the old shingles and any damaged underlayment, ensuring a clean and stable base for the new installation.
Underlayment Installation: A high-quality underlayment is essential for the longevity and performance of the new roof. This material is applied over the roof deck to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration and to support the shingles.
Shingle Installation: Owens Corning Duration shingles are installed in a bundled format, with three bundles required per square (100 square feet). The shingles are laid in a staggered pattern to ensure proper overlap and to maximize water shedding. The SureNail® Technology ensures that each shingle is securely fastened, reducing the risk of wind uplift.
Sealing and Ventilation: After the shingles are installed, all seams and edges are sealed to prevent water infiltration. Proper roof ventilation is also installed to ensure that the attic remains well-ventilated, reducing the risk of moisture buildup and extending the roof's lifespan.
Final Inspection and Warranty Activation: Once the installation is complete, the contractor performs a final inspection to ensure that all components are properly installed. This step is critical for activating the manufacturer’s warranty, which includes both material and workmanship coverage.
Cost and Pricing Factors
The cost of installing Owens Corning Duration shingles can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the roof, the complexity of the installation, and the materials used. The following are key factors that influence the final price:
Roof Tear-Off and Disposal: If a full tear-off is required, this will increase the labor and disposal costs. A tear-off involves removing the existing roofing material, which can add time and effort to the installation process.
Underlayment and Additional Materials: High-quality underlayment and other roofing accessories, such as ventilation systems and flashing, are essential for a durable roof. These materials can add to the overall cost but are necessary for long-term performance.
Contractor Expertise: Hiring a certified Owens Corning contractor may result in higher labor costs, but it ensures that the installation meets manufacturer standards and that the warranty remains valid.
Roof Size and Complexity: The size and complexity of the roof directly impact the amount of materials and labor required. Larger or more intricate roofs will naturally cost more to install.
Location and Local Labor Rates: The cost of labor and materials can vary depending on the geographic location. For example, installation in a colder climate like Michigan may involve additional considerations for insulation and snow retention.
While the initial investment for Owens Corning Duration shingles may be higher than some other roofing options, the long-term benefits—such as longer lifespan, reduced maintenance, and energy savings—can make them a cost-effective choice for many homeowners.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Owens Corning offers a limited lifetime warranty for Duration shingles, which covers both material defects and workmanship when installed by a certified contractor. The warranty is transferable, meaning that if the homeowner sells their property, the new owner can inherit the same coverage. This feature adds long-term value to the home and can be a selling point when considering resale.
In addition to the material warranty, the manufacturer also offers a wind warranty that covers damage caused by high winds. This is particularly relevant for homes in areas prone to strong storms.
The Platinum Contractor Program offers even more extensive warranty options, including 50-year non-prorated material coverage and 25-year non-prorated workmanship coverage. These extended warranties provide homeowners with peace of mind and ensure that their investment is protected for decades.
Aesthetic Appeal and Color Options
One of the standout features of Owens Corning Duration shingles is the wide range of color options available. Homeowners can choose from both classic and modern color palettes, allowing for a roof that complements the home's architectural style and enhances curb appeal.
The Duration shingles are available in traditional color options, such as driftwood, cedar, and aged copper, while the TruDefinition Designer shingles offer more vibrant and unique hues, including Summer Harvest, Storm Cloud, and Sedona Canyon.
To help homeowners make an informed decision, Owens Corning provides tools such as the DesignEyeQ tool, which allows users to visualize how different shingle colors will look on their home. This tool takes into account lighting conditions, exterior features, and overall design, helping homeowners select a color that best suits their needs.
Performance in Different Climates
Owens Corning Duration shingles are designed to perform well in a wide range of climates, including cold winter regions and humid summer environments. The SureNail® Technology and Class 4 impact resistance make them particularly well-suited for areas with severe weather conditions, such as heavy snowfall, ice, and strong winds.
In cold climates, the shingles help maintain indoor warmth and can contribute to lower heating costs. The enhanced insulation properties and reflective granules in certain lines also help regulate indoor temperatures, making the home more energy-efficient year-round.
For warmer regions, the Duration COOL shingles provide added energy savings by reducing heat absorption, which can lead to lower cooling costs during the summer months.
Conclusion
Owens Corning Duration shingles offer a compelling combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. With advanced technologies like SureNail® and enhanced impact resistance, these shingles provide excellent protection against weather-related damage. The wide range of color options and availability of both classic and designer styles make them a versatile choice for a variety of home designs.
The installation process, when carried out by a certified contractor, ensures that the shingles perform at their best and that the manufacturer’s warranty is fully honored. While the initial cost may be higher than some other roofing options, the long-term value, extended warranties, and energy savings make Owens Corning Duration shingles a wise investment for many homeowners.
Whether you're building a new home or replacing an aging roof, Owens Corning Duration shingles provide a reliable, long-lasting, and visually appealing solution that stands up to the test of time.