Georgia Roof Guide

Is GAF Timberline Ultra HDZ worth the upgrade over HDZ?

Short answer. Timberline Ultra HDZ is worth the upgrade when you plan to stay for many years, live where hail is a recurring threat, or want the thicker dual shadow line look, especially if your insurer discounts Class 4 roofs and you buy packages bearing the UltraMat logo. If you expect to sell within a few years or your budget is tight, Timberline HDZ already covers the basics well.

What the extra money buys

When it pays off

Hail exposure: North Georgia sees hail most springs, and some areas get hit repeatedly. A Class 4 roof resists moderate hail better, which can mean fewer claims and, with some insurers, a premium credit. Ask your agent for the discount in writing before counting on it. You can check your area's hail history on the North Georgia Hail Map.

A long stay: the longer you own the roof, the more the algae and impact advantages matter.

Curb appeal: on large or steep roofs that dominate the view from the street, the deeper shadow lines show.

When HDZ is enough

Selling soon, a low-pitch roof barely visible from the street, or a tight budget all point to HDZ, which still carries Class 3 on labeled packages and a 25-year algae warranty. Whichever you choose, nailing and attic ventilation decide more about lifespan than the line itself. See impact-resistant shingles in Georgia and Georgia hail season.

In depth

OSB or plywood roof decking: which is better, and what happens at a reroof?OSB vs plywood roof decking in Georgia: span ratings and thickness, how each fails when wet, plank decks, and Synthetic underlayment or felt paper: which should go under your shingles?Synthetic underlayment vs asphalt felt under Georgia shingles: performance, what the 2024 IRC requires, and thWhat is drip edge, and does a Georgia roof need it?What roof drip edge does, what IRC R905.2.8.5 requires in Georgia, how it should lap with underlayment, and ho

People also ask