When it comes to roofing your home, the materials you choose matter—a lot. As professional roofers here at Highlow Roofing, we’ve seen the long-term effects of cutting corners, and one of the most common places this happens is with asphalt shingles. Specifically, we want to talk about two big names you’ve probably heard of: Owens Corning and IKO Cambridge.
If you’re not sure which is right for your home—or worse, if your contractor hasn’t told you there is a difference—this post is for you.
Why Shingle Choice Matters More Than You Think
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. It’s what shields you from rain, hail, heat, and harsh Alberta winters. A quality roofing system isn’t just about installation—it’s about the products used.
A lot of contractors default to IKO Cambridge shingles because they’re cheaper. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that those savings today can cost you thousands down the line.
A Side-by-Side Comparison: Owens Corning vs. IKO Cambridge
Let’s break it down:
Durability & Lifespan
- Owens Corning: Typically lasts 25–30+ years with proper installation and maintenance.
- IKO Cambridge: On average, you’ll get 20–25 years—sometimes less in harsh conditions like ours in Alberta.
🔍 Bottom Line: Owens Corning shingles consistently outperform IKO Cambridge in real-world durability tests.
Wind Resistance
- Owens Corning Duration Series: Comes with a 130 mph wind resistance rating thanks to their patented SureNail® Technology.
- IKO Cambridge: Also rated for 130 mph—but in practice, they don’t hold up as well under stress. They lack the reinforced nailing zone that gives Owens Corning its edge.
Warranty Protection
- Owens Corning: Offers a true 50-year limited lifetime warranty when installed by a certified contractor.
- IKO Cambridge: Claims similar coverage, but the warranty fine print often leaves homeowners without real protection.
🛠️ Pro Tip: A warranty is only as good as the company behind it. Owens Corning has a solid, long-standing reputation for honoring theirs.
Material Quality & Aesthetics
- Owens Corning: Thicker shingles with better granule adhesion. Available in stunning colors that stay vibrant longer.
- IKO Cambridge: Thinner profile, less dimensional depth, and colors that tend to fade quicker over time.
Hiding the Truth: Why Some Roofers Don’t Tell You the Difference
We get it—budgets matter. But too often, homeowners aren’t given a choice.
Many roofing contractors install IKO Cambridge because it’s cheaper for them. They may never tell you about the alternative. Why? Because if you don’t ask, they don’t have to spend more—or take longer—to install a superior product like Owens Corning.
That’s not how we do things at Highlow Roofing.
Highlow Roofing Believes in Transparency, Integrity, and Long-Term Value
We don’t cut corners—and we don’t hide better options. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your home, not just the fastest one for our crew.
When you choose Owens Corning shingles with Highlow Roofing:
- You’re investing in longer lifespan, stronger protection, and higher curb appeal.
- You get full access to enhanced warranties through our certified installation.
- You get honest, professional advice—every single time.
Ready to Talk Shingles? Let’s Do It Right the First Time.
Your roof is too important to gamble on second-tier materials.
At Highlow Roofing, we work with homeowners who care about quality, safety, and value. We proudly install Owens Corning roofing systems, and we’re always happy to walk you through the difference before you commit.
Don’t settle for cheap. Choose trusted. Choose better.📞 Call us today for a free roofing consultation
