Which GAF Timberline roof shingle is right for your home?
Short answer. For most Georgia homes Timberline HDZ is the default choice, balancing price, color selection and a Class 3 impact rating on labeled packages. Step down to Timberline NS for a tight budget, up to Timberline UHDZ for a thicker premium look and Class 4 impact on UltraMat labeled packages, or consider AS II, a Class 4 SBS modified Timberline, where hail resistance comes first.
The family at a glance
- Timberline NS: the value laminate, with a soft, even shadow line and a shorter algae warranty.
- Timberline HDZ: GAF's best seller, with LayerLock, the wide StrikeZone nailing area, WindProven eligibility and a 25-year algae warranty on StainGuard Plus packages.
- Timberline HDZ RS: HDZ with solar reflective granules for a cooler roof surface, in a limited color set.
- Timberline UHDZ: thicker, with a dual shadow line, a 30-year algae warranty on labeled packages and Class 4 on packages bearing the UltraMat logo.
- Timberline AS II: made with SBS modified asphalt that stays flexible, rated Class 4.
Match the shingle to the goal
Lowest cost: NS. Best all-around value: HDZ. Curb appeal and a long stay: UHDZ. Hail exposure: UHDZ with UltraMat or AS II, and ask your insurer whether Class 4 earns a discount. A hot attic that is hard to fix: HDZ RS, though improving ventilation usually does more.
What matters more than the line
Every Timberline shingle depends on correct nailing, the matching starter strip and ridge cap, and proper attic ventilation. A premium shingle installed poorly fails sooner than a value shingle installed well. Check availability too, since not every line and color is stocked in every market.
Compare further in impact-resistant shingles in Georgia, architectural vs 3-tab shingles and roofing warranties explained. Robust Roofing's shingle page shows the lineup it installs.