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Roofing Blog | Expert Project Guidance | Owens Corning Roofing
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Roofing Blog

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ROOFING, ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

If you’re researching the ins and outs of getting a new roof, our Roofing Blog is a great place to get started and discover answers from our experts on some of the most common questions about roofs and roofing-related topics.

FEATURED ARTICLE

2026 HURRICANE SEASON
ROOF PREP

Be proactive in protecting your roof for the 2026 Hurricane season. Use our guide to prepare your roof for the hurricane season with regular inspections, additional support and specially designed roofing materials.

LEARN HOW TO PREPARE YOUR ROOF
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FEATURED ARTICLE

STORM DAMAGE CHECKLIST

How do you identify roof damage, and what should you do about your roof after a major storm?

Keep our roof storm damage checklist handy so you know what signs to look for after a storm and can take the steps to get your roof assessed and fixed if necessary.

GET THE CHECKLIST
Shingle tab pulled up with stormy skies in the background

Featured Article

Choosing the Right Underlayment for a
Metal Roof

Learn the difference between self-adhered and synthetic underlayments. Discover which underlayment products are best suited for metal roof installations.

EXPLORE METAL ROOF UNDERLAYMENTS
Chad Esslinger standing in front of his red brick home and black metal door with windows and sidelites, holding an Owens Corning Black Sable printed shingle poster.
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roofing-101Roofing Glossary

Refer to our roofing glossary to help you better understand words and phrases you may hear during your roof replacement project.
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Tan home with Owens Corning Duration Designer shingles in Merlot.

Roof ColorHow to Choose a Roof You'll Love for Years to Come

Learn how to choose the right roof for your home with tips from Erin Napier, including when to replace your roof, how roofing systems work, and how to select the right shingle color.
Read more
Blue home with white trim and Duration Designer shingles in Bourbon color.

Roof ColorHow to Choose a Roof Color You'll Love: Erin Napier's Favorite Shingles

Not sure how to choose a roof color? Erin Napier shares her favorite Owens Corning® shingles and tips to help you feel confident in your decision.
Read more
This is a numbered diagram of a residential roof. The numbers in the diagram correspond to the numbered list in this blog post which label and define the common parts and layers of a residential roof with asphalt roofing shingles.

roofing-material-componentsThe Anatomy of a Roof

Learn about all the different components and layers that make up the anatomy of a roof.
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Home with blue siding and dormers with white trim and Owens Corning Trudefintiion Duration Designer shingles in Evergreen Mist.

Roof ColorHow to Use Green in Your Exterior Design: Erin Napier on Timeless Shingle Colors

Discover how to use the color green in your home’s exterior design. Erin Napier shares why green is making a comeback and how Evergreen Mist brings timeless style to modern homes.
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Blue grey house with Owens Corning Duration Designer shingles in Merlot, surrounded by a blue sky and shrubbery with spring flowers.

Roof MaintenanceSpring Roof Maintenance: Cleaning & Inspection Tips for Homeowners

Spring is the ideal time for roof maintenance & repairs. Find smart spring roof maintenance tips, cleaning advice & storm prep guidance for homeowners.
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Closeup of a roof peak with Owens Corning Algae Resistant shingles.

Types of ShinglesWhat Are Algae-Resistant Roof Shingles and How Can You Find Them?

Learn how to find algae-resistant roof shingles to help prevent dark streaks, and protect your roof with durable, long-lasting options from Owens Corning.
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Tan brick home with Owens Corning Duration Designer shingles in Black Sable.

Roofing WarrantiesHow Do I Register My Owens Corning Roof Warranty?

Learn how to register your standard Owens Corning roof warranty online, including steps, documents required, and homeowner registration guidance.
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Grey house with grey roofing shingles with half showing "before" and "after" cleaning the roof.

Roof MaintenanceCleaning Asphalt Roof Shingles & Other Necessary Roof Maintenance Tips

Learn about cleaning roof shingles, seasonal items to check & other roof maintenance tips today. Find tips & tricks for how to maintain a roof over time.
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Ocean waves crashing into a coastal apartment building

Roof Damage2026 Hurricane Season Roof Prep

Use our guide to prepare your roof for the 2026 hurricane season with regular inspections, additional support, and specially designed roofing materials.
Read more
Image of Owens Corning Roofing being installed with a nailgun

roofing-installation-planningHow to Nail Roofing Shingles

Learn about proper nailing techniques and materials for fastening asphalt roofing shingles.
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Homebuyers standing in front of brick home reviewing documents with real estate agent,

Roofing WarrantiesWhat to Ask About a Roofing Warranty When Buying a House

Learn the right roofing questions to ask about roof home warranty coverage, from age limits to whether roofing warranties transfer to new owners.
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Granite Woodcrest shingles on a steep slope roof.

ShinglesThe Look of a Wood Shake Roof with the Performance of Asphalt Shingles

See how to get the wood shake style you love with the performance of a traditional asphalt roof.
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Variations of the types of Owens Corning shingles

roof-color-designTypes of Residential Roofing Shingles: Shapes and Features

Learn the available types of asphalt roofing shingles and discover which is the right choice for your roof.
Read more
Contractor walking on three different metal roof underlayments on a roof deck

roofing-material-componentsChoosing the Right Underlayment for a Metal Roof

Learn the difference between self-adhered and synthetic underlayments. Discover which underlayment products are best suited for metal roof installations.
Read more
Photo of closeup of red brick texture

roof-color-designThe Impact of Red Brick and Your Roof Color

Designer Chad Esslinger answers a homeowner's question about how to pick the right roof color for a red brick home with beige siding.
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Roof image with layers of the roof cut away to show the products underneath the shingles

Roofing SystemThe Total Protection Roofing System®: A Guide Designed to Help Qualify for a FORTIFIED Roof™

Learn how to qualify for a FORTIFIED Roof™ Designation using the Owens Corning® Total Protection Roofing System®
Read more
Photo of insulation in an attic

roof-efficiency-ventilationThe Role of Attic Insulation and Your Roof

Discover the benefits of attic insulation including how a properly insulated attic space helps to ensure top roof performance.
Read more
Exterior view of a home with tan siding and Trudefinition Duration COOL Shingles in Mojave color.

Roofing SustainabilityCan Solar Reflective Roof Shingles Unlock Energy Savings for Your Home?

Learn how cool roofs can increase energy efficiency through solar reflectance. Find out which US climates are best suited for cool roofing shingles.
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Photo of the top of a roof with COOL shingles installed, with green grass and a pool in the background

roofing-installation-planningHow to Meet COOL Roof Code Requirements in California

Get familiar with roofing shingles that can meet or exceed California COOL roof code requirements, Title 24, Part 6.
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gloved hand removing leaves from white gutters on a red roof

roof-maintenance-cleaningAnnual Home Roof Maintenance

Follow this seasonal roof maintenance checklist to help keep your roof in shape year after year. Regular roof inspections can help you catch problems early.
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Man and woman meeting with a roofing contractor, sitting at their kitchen table with the Pink Panther standing nearby

choosing-roofing-contractor15 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Roofer

Getting a new roof or a roof repair starts with finding the right roofing contractor for the job. From warranty coverage to determining your estimate, here are 15 questions to ask yourself to when considering your final roofing contractor selection!
Read more
Closeup photo of a roof with old shingles being torn off

roof-replacement-repairRoof Replacement Basics

A step by step guide of what you can expect in the days leading up to, during, and after your new roof installation, plus pro tips to ask your contractor.
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Photo of a man and woman standing facing their house, looking at their roof

roof-replacement-repairDo I Need a New Roof?

Learn more about some of the warning signs of an aging or damaged roof to help you determine if you need a new roof.
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Image of TDD Colonial State Shingles roof

roof-efficiency-ventilationTypes of Roof Vents

Learn about the different types of roof vents needed for balanced attic ventilation, helping your roofing system perform at its best.
Read more
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snowfrom draining off the roof.

Roof DamageHow to Avoid Roof Ice Dams

If your roof is effected by snowfall and melting and freezing over this is an ice dam. The melted water that pools behind the ice dam gets trapped, creating the potential to leak into the home and cause damage.
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Close up of man wearing a white hard hat, adjusting glasses on his face, with blurred roofers on top of roof in background.

roofing-installation-planningWhen To Replace Your Roof

Discover the importance of regular roof inspections. Learn how often you should get a roofing inspection and what a roof inspector looks for.
Read more
Grey roof with snow blanketed across the surface with a ladder extended up to the rooftop.

Roof ReplacementCold Weather Roofing Projects

Identify common cold-weather roof problems and their solutions. Learn how roofing
contractors adapt to working on the roof during winter weather conditions.
Read more
Close up view of shingles with snow and frost coating, and fall leaves.

Roof MaintenanceFall and Winter Roof Preparation

Fall is a great time to think about preparing your roof for winter. Check out this blog from Owens Corning Roofing for roof maintenance suggestions.
Read more
Aerial view of a red brick home with arched entry and a new roof with Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration Black Sable asphalt shingles

Roof ColorYour Home, Your Roof, Your Choice: Pro Roof Design Tips

Find roofing color inspiration and innovative color palettes with design tools and resources from Owens Corning. Use visualization tools and printed samples to finalize your choices.
Read more
Pink muscle car with the Pink Panther driving in front of words "AMERICAN MUSCLE"

Roofing SystemFrom Mopars to Roofs: Passion Drives Excellence

Discover how an integrated system, reliable performance and spectacular color create a winning product, whether a classic Mopar® or an Owens Corning® roof.
Read more
Photo of the top of a roof with gray shingles set against a dark, stormy sky with lightning

roof-storm-damage-insuranceAsphalt Roofing Shingles & Wind Resistance

Learn how wind can damage a roof and how installing asphalt roofing shingles designed for wind resistance can minimize its effect.
Read more
Tan colored house with brown shingles set against a dark, stormy sky with lightning flashing

roofing-material-componentsClass 4, Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles

Learn about Class 4, impact-resistant asphalt roofing shingles, how they earn their rating, and how they can help protect your roof from hail damage.
Read more
Cut outs of a greyed out house, paint chip samples, tan brick, and shingle swatches

Roof ColorThe Science of Shingle Colors

See how Owens Corning develops exclusive shingle colors to perfectly pair with today’s wide range of home exterior colors and materials.
Watch Now
Photo of a contractor on top of a roof installing ProArmor underlayment

roofing-material-componentsSynthetic vs. Felt Roofing Underlayment: Pros & Cons

Discover why synthetic roofing underlayment has many advantages over felt and may be a worthwhile investment to protect your roof and home from the risks of water and moisture infiltration.
Read more
Santa in red suit carrying a red velvet bag and scaling the snowy rooftop

Roof ReplacementPrepare Your Roof for Winter Weather and Santa’s Visit

Get your roof ready for Santa’s Christmas Eve visit. Find out how to help prevent ice dams, roof leaks and make your home energy-efficient this winter.
Read more
Photo of a homeowner working on top of their roof installing shingles

roofing-101DIY Roofing

Learn how to DIY your roof. Get help understanding how to estimate your project's roofing materials and other roofing resources.
Read more
Closeup of a person's hand on a desk using a calculator

roof-replacement-repairRoof Replacement Costs Explained

Get clarity on the cost of your new roof. Discover the 15 crucial factors influencing roofing costs, from materials and labor to roof size and complexity.
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Close up view of roof line with Midnight Plum shingles from Owens Corning Duration shingle line

roof-color-designThe Ultimate Roof Color Guide: Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Discover how to choose the best color for your roofing shingles, how this can impact resale value, and popular color trends in roofing.
Read more
Woman holding child on her back in a field of lavender

Roof Color2023 Shingle Color of the Year: Midnight Plum

Discover the striking 2023 Shingle Color of the Year: Midnight Plum and upgrade your home's look. Learn more about the importance of roofing materials and shingle color in creating a standout curb appeal for your home.
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White house with old, grey shingle roof with curing and visible damage

Roof RepairsThe Hidden Risks of Neglecting Your Roof Replacement

Delaying a roof replacement can cost more than you think. Discover the negative
results of roof neglect and learn roof damage prevention strategies.
Read more
Residential roof with shingles torn away to reveal underlayment products on the roof.

roofing-material-componentsHow Roofing Underlayment Helps Protect Your Home

Roofing underlayment is an important layer of your roof that helps keep it dry and protected from the elements. Discover how it helps protect your home.
Read more
Photo of a person sitting at a table with hands touching making the shape of a house, with paper cutouts of a family standing below the "roof" of their hands

roof-replacement-repairRoofing Warranties Explained

Learn about the differences between workmanship warranties and standard and extended roofing warranties.
Read more
Closeup photo of hands typing on a laptop with a sample roof quote on the screen

roofing-installation-planningUnderstanding Roof Estimates and Quotes

Get the scoop on obtaining roofing estimates from reputable contractors. Learn how some roofers are providing no-contact roofing quotes during COVID-19 restrictions.
Read more
House with tan siding, two dormers with tan windows and Owens Corning Aged Copper shingles.

Roof ReplacementNew Roofs: Before and after

Check out these inspirational exterior home transformations with full roof
replacements with Owens Corning shingles. Color options to fit any style, with the performance you
expect from Owens Corning.
Read more
Medium tan rooftop with dark coloration on the shingles.

roof-maintenance-cleaningWhy are there Dark Streaks on My Roof?

Algae growth may cause discoloration resulting in dark streaks on the rooftop. Learn more about what causes dark streaks on a roof and how to address the issue.
Read more
Lay flat view Shingle swatch with paint chip samples in two shades of blue, a black door handle, and a lantern.

Roof ColorHow to Create a Mood Board for your Roof Color & Home Exterior Design

Your roof, which can account for up to 40% of your home’s exterior, can impact the overall look of your home. Therefore, it plays a key role in helping to define your home’s character and highlighting your personality and style. Explore this article for tips!
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Hail stones on ground

Roof DamageRoof Hail Damage

Hailstorms can cause serious damage to a roof. Here’s what to look for and what to do if you think you may have hail damage to your roof.
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dirt path lined with green ferns and surrounded by tall trees

Roof Color2021 COLORS OF THE YEAR

Enhance your home's exterior with 2021 Colors of the Year, Owens Corning Duration® Designer Shingles in Aged Copper and Aegean Teal 2136-40 from Benjamin Moore®.
Read more
Pink panther using an iPad with roof design software

Roof ColorHow to use Design EyeQ® Roof Color Visualizer

Imagine, explore, design, and experiment to find your dream new roof with help from the Design EyeQ® Roof Visualization Experience. The virtual tool will guide you to “try on” roof colors to discover the right style for your roof.
Read more
Wood desk with shingle samples, brochures, laptop, and notebook spread out

Roof ColorDigital Design Tools vs Real Samples

What is the right balance between using digital tools and real samples when trying to pull together an exterior design plan for your house and roof?
Read more
Shingles being torn off a roof showing the wood decking underneath.

Roof ReplacementRoof Repair vs Roof Replacement Guide

Does your home need a roof replacement or a roof repair? Discover some of the factors that might impact your decision.
Read more
Closeup of a roof on a red brick house

roof-efficiency-ventilationWhy Proper Attic Ventilation Is Important for Your Home

Learn all about the critically important role of proper attic ventilation and how to make sure your home has enough.
Read more

How-ToHow to Pick the Right Roof Shingle Color for Your Home

From creating mood boards to trying on new roof colors with online visualization tools, get the top 10 tips for picking a roof color you love and that complements your home exterior design.
Read more

Roof DamageHow to Spot a Roof Leak

Think you have a roof leak? Here are five potential signs of a leaking roof.
Read more
Home in a storm

Roof DamageSigns of Storm Damage on your Roof

While your roof is designed to withstand the elements, some storms are more intense than others. There are signs to look for when you believe there may have been damage to your roof.
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Closeup photo of a calculator sitting on a desk alongside a pen

roof-replacement-repairUnderstanding Roof Financing

Explore financing options for your upcoming roofing project.
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Photo of a contractor and homeowner looking at a house while roofers are working on installing shingles

Roofing ContractorsHow to Find Reliable Roofers Near You

Searching online for roofing contractors near you will likely bring up dozens, if not hundreds, of results, so how can you quickly narrow down your list to the most trusted, reputable roofing companies in your area?
Read more
Montage image of a surfer riding a wave with 2020 Shingle Color of the Year, Pacific Wave, layered over top

Roof ColorChad’s Pacific Wave Style Board Inspiration

Discover designer Chad Esslinger's 2020 Shingle Color of the Year Pacific Wave Home Exterior Style Board.
Read more
Closeup photo of shingle granules in brown, gray, green, and tan colors

Roof ColorColors of Roof Shingle Granules

What colors are the granules on a shingle? Do I need to match them exactly?
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Photo of a bright blue sky with clouds and rays of sun

How-ToHow to Get Your Roof Ready for Solar Panel Installation

Take note of roof-related issues to address first before getting solar panels installed.
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Photo of a person meditating in nature

Roof ReplacementYour Home Exterior Design Project: Before, During, and After

Designer Chad Esslinger provides a few key tips to keep things manageable before, during, and after a big home exterior design project.
Read more
Photo of a person sitting at a desk in front of a laptop taking measurements on a large sheet of paper

Roof ReplacementPlanning Your Home Exterior Design – Including Your Roof

Advice from Designer Chad Esslinger on how and where to start refreshing your home exterior, including your roof.
Read more
Montage image with a wooden boat in a lake with a scenic wooded landscape behind. Wooden oars and deep green furs also composited for a very earthy, nature-inspired visual.

Roof ColorChad’s Aged Copper Style Board Inspiration

Designer Chad Esslinger shares his thoughts and style board for Aged Copper - the 2021 Shingle Color of the Year from Owens Corning Roofing.
Read more
Drawing of the exterior of a house set against a photo background with green grass and bright blue sky with clouds

Roof ColorRoof Color & Home Exterior Design Questions & Answers

Designer Chad Esslinger answers some of the top roofing questions about color and how it can influence your overall home exterior design.
Read more
Photo of the roof of a house covered with snow, with icicles hanging

Roof DamageIce and Water Barriers for Your Roof

What you need to know about ice and water underlayment products that help to create a waterproof barrier on your roof and help to keep moisture out.
Read more
Home with tan wood shake siding, brown trim and Owens Corning Duration Designer roof in Storm Cloud

roofing-101Roof Types

Knowing the style or type of roof on your home can help you pick the right roofing materials to help protect your home and boost its curb appeal.
Read more
Photo of two people looking through a color swatch booklet

Roof ColorHomeowner or Contractor: Who Picks the Roof Color?

Designer Chad Esslinger shares a few tips for picking the roof color you want with confidence.
Read more
Photo of the top of a roof with gray shingles set against a dark, stormy sky with lightning

Roof DamageRoof Storm Damage Checklist

Keep our roof storm damage checklist handy so you know what signs to look for after a storm and can take the steps to get your roof assessed and fixed if necessary.
Read more
Photo of a red "For Sale" sign in the foreground, with a two story home in the background

Roof ColorRoof Color and Resale

Designer Chad Esslinger shares how a well-designed exterior color palette, including your roof, can help to make the best impression on potential buyers.
Read more
Image of a user looking at the computer

Roofing ContractorsHow Roofers Can Connect with Customers Virtually

Discover various technology that can help you transition from face-to-face selling at the kitchen table to virtual presentations and selling strategies.
Read more
Image of two people looking at an agreement

roof-replacement-repairHow to Transfer a Roof Warranty

Take note of what you need to do to successfully transfer a roof warranty.
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Model home on a blueprint

Roof ReplacementReasons For A New Roof

Find the top reasons for needing a new roof and valuable information to assist you through the process.
Read more
Home with red brick and stone exterior in various patterns and textures

Roof ColorMixing Exterior Patterns and Textures with Your Roof

Do you know your color, pattern, and texture comfort zone? Designer Chad Esslinger shares some tips for mixing these elements together on your home exterior, including the roof.
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Photo of light gray shingles on a house compared with a roof with dark gray shingles

Roof ColorDarker vs Lighter Roof Colors

Trying to decide between a darker or lighter roof color? Designer Chad Esslinger shares a few design considerations to help you make your decision.
Read more
Photo of a variety of color swatches

Roof ColorChoosing the Right Roof Color for Your Exterior Design Palette

Tips from Designer Chad Esslinger for deciding between a cool or warm color palette for your roof color and home’s exterior design.
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Photo zoomed in on the chest of a man wearing a navy blue suit with red patterned tie

Roof ColorTimeless Roof Colors

Designer Chad Esslinger explains how picking a roof color that is classic can help to keep your home exterior design looking timeless.
Read more
Photo of hands typing on a laptop keyboard

Roof ReplacementGetting a New Roof or Roof Repair During COVID-19

Work remotely with roofing contractors during COVID-19. Find out how to get an estimate, choose roofing shingles, and hire a contractor all from the comfort of your home.
Read more
Montage with leather, bourbon pouring into a rocks glass with a cozy fire in the background. Layered over the montage image is a Bourbon shingle swatch with “2022 Shingle Color of the Year” text.

Roof ColorBourbon on the Rooftop

If you’re looking for an exciting new color for your roof, then you may want to consider “Bourbon” – the newest color in our TruDefinition® Duration® Designer Colors Collection shingle line and our 2022 Shingle Color of the Year.
Read more
Contractor throwing ice ball at SBS roofing shingles

ShinglesTaking Shingles for a “Test Drive” with FLEX Fest

FLEX Fest is a fun way for roofing contractors to “test drive” and get hands-on experience with TruDefinition® Duration FLEX™ - new SBS UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistant shingles from Owens Corning.
Read more

NEXT STEPS

Which Shingle Is Right For You

Getting the color and shape of shingle you always wanted is a great way to express your individual personality and add real value.

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Photo of three different colors of shingles: dark gray, tan, and light gray

Looking For A Contractor?

Purchasing a new roof is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make for your home, so it’s important that it’s done right and that you have someone standing behind the work for years to come.

Learn More
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Ready to Build Your Roof™?

Build Your Roof™ empowers you to select each layer and component that goes into your Total Protection Roofing System®+ so that you get the roof you want to protect your home.

+Excludes non-Owens Corning® roofing products such as flashing, fasteners, pipe boots and wood decking.
Learn More
Photo of a person's hands on a laptop, typing, with the Owens Corning Build Your Roof™ experience on the screen
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