a comparison of a roof

Owens Corning Duration vs Oakridge: What’s the Difference?

Owens Corning Duration vs Oakridge: What’s the Difference?

Owens Corning offers a range of shingle options for different needs, from economical 3-tab shingles, to designer luxury shingles, and the ever-popular architectural shingle. This comprehensive comparison between Owens Corning’s two types of architectural shingles, Duration vs. Oakridge, will help homeowners make an informed decision on which shingle best suits their needs.

Owens Corning Oakridge: Overview and Features

The Oakridge line is Owens Corning’s entry-level architectural shingle, and are designed for homeowners who are looking for a balance between performance and value. Let’s take a look at some of the key features of the Oakridge line.

Wind Resistance and Durability

A shingle’s nailing zone is one of the most critical areas in regards to how well the shingle can hold up under adverse conditions. The Oakridge line has a double layer in the nailing zone, which gives added strength compared to similar shingles that only have one layer. This added strength helps shingle performance across the board: with wind resistance, nail blow-through (when a nail is driven too far into the material), and delamination (when the layers of a shingle start to separate).

Algae Resistance

Oakridge shingles feature StreakGuard Algae Resistance, Owens Corning’s algae-fighting technology. The shingle granules are lined with copper, a natural algae inhibitor.

Colors / Aesthetics

Oakridge comes in both standard and TruDefinition color styles. TruDefinition is a special approach to color formulation and application that allows for more vibrant hues and dramatic colors and contrasts. Oakridge has six color options to choose from, while TruDefinition Oakridge has seven.

Price

Oakridge shingles represent an economical option for those who prioritize both quality and value. As the more cost-effective choice between the two, Oakridge shingles offer a balance of performance and value, making them an attractive solution for homeowners on a budget.

Owens Corning Duration: Overview and Features

Duration is Owens Corning’s high-end line of architectural shingles, with not just one, but seven styles: Duration, Duration Designer, Duration MAX, Duration Premium, Duration FLEX, Duration STORM, Duration COOL, and Duration COOL Plus, each with their own standout features. Here we’re going to focus on the flagship Duration line, but briefly touch on the others, too.

Wind Resistance and Durability

If you’re looking for an even more robust shingle than Oakridge, Duration might be for you. Each line in the Duration series is engineered with proprietary SureNail Technology. This adds a third layer across the nailing zone, a woven fabric strip, that adds strength and helps prevent nail blow-through during installation and even more wind resistance than the Oakridge line.

Besides the standard Duration line, each line in the Duration series has its own notable durability features, and may be a factor in making your decision depending on where you live.

For example, Duration STORM and FLEX are Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, and Duration COOL and COOL Plus utilize solar-reflecting granules to lessen heat transference to your home.

Algae Resistance

Like the Oakridge line, all Duration shingles feature the same great StreakGuard Algae Resistance for lasting curb appeal.

Colors

With the exception of Duration Premium, each line in the Duration series comes in Owens Corning’s TruDefinition color platform. One notable difference is the Duration Designer line. While having the same functional specifications as the standard Duration line, Designer has color schemes that feature more contrasting shades of color within each scheme. If you want a color style that’s less monochromatic and more eclectic, Duration Designer might be what you’re looking for.

So how many colors can you choose from? Each series in the Duration line has varying amounts of color options, and usually depends on the regional availability of that type of shingle. For example, Duration COOL Plus are designed to meet building codes in Los Angeles county, and currently has seven colors to choose from. The standard Duration line, on the other hand, has a much wider range of color range of twenty-one color options (however, not all colors are available in all areas).

Price

Duration shingles come with a higher price tag, reflective of their premium features, such as enhanced durability and color schemes. For those willing to invest a bit more for top-tier protection and style, Duration shingles are the way to go.

Comparing Warranty Options: Wind Resistance and Algae Protection

Wind

Oakridge qualifies for a wind speed warranty of up to 110 miles per hour with a standard 4-nail application. This can go up to 130 mph if a 6-nail application is used and the right accessory products are installed at the same time.

All Duration shingles qualify for 130 mph warranty with a standard nailing application.

Algae

Both Oakridge and Duration qualify for up to a 25-year Algae Resistance Limited Warranty, but must include the installation of the right combination of accessory products at the same time. Without the accessory products, the algae warranty is 10 years.

Factors to Consider: Which Shingle is Right For You?

The biggest difference between Oakridge and Duration are the nailing zone and added thickness of the Duration shingle, along with the color options.

Chase Roof Inspections: Expertise in Owens Corning Shingles

The matchup of Owens Corning Duration vs. Oakridge shingles offers impressive features suited to different homeowner needs and preferences. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific requirements, but Duration may come out on top between the two if you prioritize durability and a standout aesthetic.

We at Chase Roof Inspections understand the importance of making informed decisions about roofing projects. Whether you’re considering roof repair or replacing your entire roof, we’re committed to delivering excellence and efficiency at a reasonable price.

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From the initial inspection to the completion of your project, Chase Roof Inspections is here to get you the roof you want and need at a price that works for your budget.

Get in touch by filling out our contact form or calling us at (901) 907-3666 for a comprehensive roofing solution. With free estimates for all services, you can make informed decisions about your roofing needs without any surprise costs.

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