What is GAF Timberline ArmorShield II?
Short answer. Timberline ArmorShield II, sold today as Timberline AS II, is GAF's impact-resistant architectural shingle made with SBS polymer modified asphalt, which makes it more flexible and rubber-like than a standard shingle. GAF rates it UL 2218 Class 4 when sold in packages carrying that classification, and it has the familiar laminated Timberline look.
What SBS modification does
SBS, short for styrene-butadiene-styrene, is a rubbery polymer blended into the asphalt. It lets the shingle flex and absorb a hailstone's impact instead of fracturing. GAF also notes that the added flexibility helps the shingles lie flatter in colder weather than standard asphalt shingles.
Key features
- Impact: UL 2218 Class 4, the highest class, on packages bearing the statement.
- Look: a dimensional Timberline appearance that is hard to tell from standard architectural shingles from the street.
- Wind: GAF lists it as eligible for its WindProven limited wind warranty when installed with the required GAF accessories.
- Algae: algae-resistant granules, important in Georgia humidity.
Things to know before choosing it
- It typically comes in fewer colors than Timberline HDZ, and availability can be regional.
- It costs more than standard architectural shingles.
- GAF now also rates Timberline UHDZ with UltraMat as Class 4, so compare looks and price between the two.
- GAF makes no warranty about hail performance, and hail damage is not covered by the shingle warranty.
In Georgia
For homes in neighborhoods hit by hail more than once, or owners whose insurer discounts Class 4 roofs, AS II is worth pricing. Ask your agent before you buy. See impact-resistant shingles in Georgia and Georgia hail season.