At Big League Roofers, we are always excited to share innovations that make a significant difference in the roofing industry. One such game-changer is GAF’s patented LayerLock™ technology, featured in Timberline HDZ® shingles. This revolutionary technology has simplified installation for contractors and provided homeowners with the industry’s first unlimited wind speed warranty.

Understanding LayerLock™ Technology
To appreciate the uniqueness of LayerLock™, let’s compare traditional laminate shingles with Timberline® HDZ shingles. Traditionally, laminate and architectural shingles consist of two pieces held together by an asphalt-based adhesive, forming the common bond area.

GAF CARE Operations Manager Matt Hegge explains, “When asphalt heats up, it becomes more malleable, increasing the risk of adhesive loosening in the common bond area. To ensure stability, nails had to be driven through this bond.”

Enhancing the Common Bond and Nailing Zone
LayerLock™ technology takes a different approach by mechanically attaching shingle pieces for added strength. “If you look at the back of Timberline® shingles with LayerLock™ technology, you’ll see dimple marks,” says Hegge. “These marks indicate where the shingle pieces are mechanically fastened during manufacturing.”

This method, akin to a punch press, integrates the laminate from the bottom layer into the top layer, creating a robust attachment. Consequently, contractors benefit from a significantly larger nailing area.

“We’ve increased the nailing zone size by 600 percent compared to Timberline HD shingles,” Hegge continues. “The StrikeZone™ nailing area, covered with microgranules, facilitates a strong asphalt-to-asphalt bond with the Dura Grip™ adhesive. Typically, only four nails are needed unless local codes require otherwise.”

Speed and Accuracy in Installation
The expanded nailing zone and reduced nail requirement have sped up the installation process. An independent study by Home Innovation Research Labs revealed that Timberline® HDZ shingles were installed up to 30 percent faster than standard architectural shingles. Moreover, a contractor achieved 999 out of 1,000 accurate nail placements, thanks to the large nailing zone.

Nick Branon from Hero Roofing attests to this improvement, stating, “With StrikeZone™, our accuracy has improved, and installations are more efficient.” Cody Dykes of Superior Roofing echoes this sentiment, highlighting the ease of hitting the wider nailing area and the faster job completion.

Unmatched Warranty Protection
LayerLock™ technology also offers superior warranty protection with three levels:

110-mph Wind Rating: Achieved by installing Timberline® HDZ shingles with four nails in the StrikeZone.
130-mph Wind Rating: Requires four nails in the StrikeZone, plus starter strip shingles at the eaves and rakes.
WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty: For unlimited wind speed coverage, use four nails in the StrikeZone, GAF starter strips, roof deck protection, ridge cap shingles, and leak barrier or attic ventilation. This warranty is an industry first and is only available from GAF.
For more details on LayerLock™ technology, contact us or your local Territory Manager. Explore how this innovative technology can enhance your roofing projects with unmatched speed, accuracy, and durability.

Note: The 15-year WindProven™ limited wind warranty on Timberline® HDZ™ Shingles requires specific GAF products. Visit gaf.com/LRS for complete coverage details.