Atlas Roofing Corporation is a roofing manufacturer specializing in shingle roofs. It has its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and has 36 other manufacturing facilities spread across North America. Many contractors recommend Atlas roofing for residential and commercial applications.
But is the company worth the hype?
In this review, we examine the brand's history, product line, and pros & cons. By the end of the article, you should know whether the brand is the right fit for your roofing needs.
Atlas Roofing History
Atlas came into existence in 1982 after acquiring its first manufacturing facility from Masonite Corporation. Back then, it was only producing asphalt shingles and roll roofing materials.
Over the years, the company acquired other manufacturing facilities from companies like Owens Corning Fiberglass, American Western's Polyiso business, and Georgia Pacific's roofing business. Concurrently, it was also expanding its product line.
35+ years later, the company has 36 manufacturing facilities spread across the United States and Canada. Its product line has also expanded to include many innovative, quality products such as roof shingles, Web Technologies, and Molded Products.
Pros of Atlas Roofing
There is a reason why many contractors and home inspectors recommend Atlas Roofing-the brand offers many benefits to its consumers. Here are some of them.
Favorable Warranties
The warranties that Atlas offers on its shingles are above average. There are warranties covering manufacturing defects and wind damage. Others cover against algae damage.
The manufacturing warranty does not cover materials alone. It also covers labor for reinstallation and damage fees if a tear-off is necessary. Manufacturing warranties range from 30 years to a lifetime. Wind warranties range from 60mph to 150 mph, while algae damage warranties can be as long as five years to a lifetime.
Don't forget, Atlas warranties are transferrable but only once. And it has to be within the Premium Protection period (5 to 20 years)
All Roofing Products under One Roof
Atlas enables you to get all your roofing products under one roof. You can buy shingles, underlayment, hip and ridge protectors, and other roofing accessories. Buying all products from one brand means consistency in quality.
With that said, it is imperative to note that buying from one brand does not guarantee a better roof. Proper installation is the key to a long-lasting solution.
Scotchgard Protector
Some of the shingles, such as Legend and Pinnacle have a Scotchgard layer of protection. The coating prevents black streaks on the surface of the roof, resulting from algae build-up.
Varying Costs
Atlas roof shingles come at varying prices to suit different budget needs. The cost categories include value, designer, and premium, with value as the cheapest and premium being the most expensive. Each option features a variety of colors.
Virtual Visualization Tool
If you have no idea which style or color to choose, the virtual visualization designer tool can help. The software helps visualize different Atlas roofing products on your home to help you make the right decision.
All you need to do is upload a photo of your house. The tool will automatically recognize the roof, doors, sidings, and other areas. And you can start visualizing the products with just a few clicks. The process takes only a few minutes.
Mobile Apps
Atlas mobile Apps make a contractor's job much easier by putting everything they need at their fingertips. They can manage and streamline projects, access tools, and select products on their mobile phones.
The Apps include:
Atlas ProAPP
This App for IPad relies on cloud technology. It helps contractors manage multiple projects by enabling them to store, update, access, and track important data. It includes a presentation builder, shingle visualizer, Atlas store, and much more.
Atlas RoofSwap! App
This App resembles the virtual visualization tool. It allows you to visualize different styles and colors of shingles on your home, thus eliminating guesswork from the purchasing process. Just upload a photo of your home and click.
Atlas Docs
This App utilizes a mobile technology referred to as WikiSTIK. It offers contractors and building professionals access to Atlas' promotional and technical resources. These include brochures, images, manuals, and videos.
Atlas Pro Plus Contractor Program
Hiring qualified installers will ensure your shingle roof lasts for a long time. It will also reduce the chances of Atlas rejecting your warranty application.
Thankfully, Atlas designed the Pro Plus contractor program to train installers how to install shingle roofs. Contractors who go through the training have a higher chance of getting hired. However, many contractors don't bother to go through the training. Therefore, they cannot extend the Premium Protection warranty to homeowners.
Cons of Atlas Roofing
Of course, no roofing company is perfect. Atlas has its fair share of cons. We highlight some of them below.
Only Sells Shingles
Although Atlas offers a variety of choices, it only sells asphalt shingles. Therefore, homeowners looking for long-lasting roofing solutions that are cost-effective in the long run will have to look elsewhere.
Warranty Exemptions
Based on the reviews we came across, one common complaint from customers is the rejection of their warranty claims. Indeed, this is a common trend with many shingle roofing manufacturers.
Atlas will not offer warranties if you overlay shingles on an already existing roof. You have to tear down the old structure first. Also, only qualified contractors should install your shingle roof for you to qualify. Other reasons Atlas gives for not honoring warranties include improper sealing, poor ventilation, and incorrect underlayment.
Atlas Roofing Product Line
Atlas specializes in shingle roofs. However, it also sells a host of other products. They include:
- Roof accessories
- Polyiso roof insulation
- Polyiso wall insulation
- Molded polystyrene
- Facer technology
Roofing Shingles
Atlas' roof shingles come in three main categories: 3-tab, architectural, and specialty shingles. They feature a variety of prices and colors to suit varying budgets and preferences.
3-Tab Shingle
3-tab shingles are the cheaper alternative if you want to buy shingles but are on a budget. They include Legend and Glassmaster.
However, the shingles are lighter than their counterparts. They are, therefore, more prone to damage and will require frequent repairs. Moreover, they have short warranty periods and offer the least wind resistance.
The following table is a summary of some of their features.
Shingle | Warranty | Wind | Colors | Cost category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Legend | 40 year limited warranty | 110 mph | 5 | Designer |
GlassMaster | 30 year limited | 60 mph | 10 | Value |
Architectural
The architectural category has the most extensive product line with five shingles. They include StormMaster, Pinnacle Pristine, Briarwood Pro, ProLam, and Castlebrook. The shingles are thicker and stronger than their 3-tab counterparts. As a result, they have better warranties and higher wind resistance.
The StormMaster has the highest wind resistance at 150 mph. Atlas offers a lifetime limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects for all the shingles.
The following table summarizes some of their features.
Shingle | Warranty | Wind | Colors | Cost category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
StormMaster | lifetime limited warranty | 150 mph | 10 | Premium |
Pinnacle Pristine | lifetime limited warranty | 150 mph | 19 | Designer |
Briarwood Pro | lifetime limited warranty | 130 mph | 5 | Designer |
ProLam | lifetime limited warranty | 130 mph | 7 | Value |
Castlebrook | lifetime limited warranty | 130 mph | 7 | Value |
Specialty
The StormMaster slate is the only specialty shingle that Atlas offers. It combines the elegant looks of slate tiles with the lightweight nature and low cost of shingles. You can choose between six available colors.
The tiles have a class 4 impact resistance and a lifetime limited warranty that covers defects in manufacturing. They can resist winds speeds of up to 130 mph.
The StormMaster slate is the second roofing product in the premium cost category. That means it fetches a higher price compared to its counterparts.
Atlas Roofing Cost
Atlas roofing shingles come at varying prices. There are cheaper options such as GlassMaster and premium alternatives such as StormMaster. Therefore, consumers have a broad range of choices depending on their budget needs.
The following table shows the price range for Atlas roof shingles.
Shingle | Cost range in square feet |
|---|---|
Legend | $72 to $81 |
GlassMaster | $47 to $54 |
StormMaster shingle | $105 to $124 |
Pinnacle Pristine | $90 to $108 |
Briarwood Pro | $73 to $85 |
ProLam | $72 to $81 |
Castlebrook | $64 to $75 |
StormMaster slate | $110 to $130 |
How Long Does Atlas Roof Shingles Last?
An asphalt shingle roof can last anywhere between 20 and 35 years. Shingles from Atlas should last as long, provided there is proper installation and maintenance. Again, hiring a qualified contractor is the only guarantee for a proper installation.
Atlas Roofing Compared to Other Brands
Atlas is up there with other brands such as Owens Corning, GAF, and IKO. However, it offers better warranties. Also, its prices are very competitive.
Conclusion
Is Atlas Roofing worth it? Yes. The company has certainly earned its spot among leading shingle roofing manufacturers in the country. It stands out for its better warranties and competitive prices.
However, this is not the company for you if you are looking for long-lasting roofing solutions. That's because asphalt shingles do not last for very long. You will have to look elsewhere for other options such as tiles and metal roofs.