Residential Roof Replacement Materials We Use
At Litespeed Construction, we believe that the foundation of a quality roof replacement starts with premium materials and trusted manufacturers. Serving Knoxville, TN and surrounding areas within 30 miles, we take pride in using roofing materials that are designed to withstand Tennessee’s unpredictable weather, improve your home’s energy efficiency, and elevate curb appeal.
Whether you’re upgrading an aging roof or recovering from storm damage, it’s crucial to understand the materials we use for residential roof replacements. We don’t cut corners—and our thorough approach has earned us a reputation for honesty, transparency, and craftsmanship.
Key Takeaways
💡The exact shingles, gutters, vents, and underlayments Litespeed Construction uses in residential roofing projects.
💡Differences between standard and upgraded materials (and when upgrades are worth it).
💡Trusted manufacturers we work with like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and Velux.
💡How materials impact your roof’s longevity, energy efficiency, and resale value.
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Why Quality Materials Matter in Residential Roofing
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly 25% of residential energy loss can be attributed to poorly insulated or damaged roofs. Furthermore, FEMA notes that inadequate roofing materials are a leading cause of home damage during extreme weather events like high winds or hail.
In East Tennessee, where humidity, heavy rains, and seasonal storms are common, choosing the right roofing materials isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Durability, wind resistance, algae resistance, and UV protection are non-negotiable features in the materials we select for homeowners in Knoxville.
🧱 Roofing Shingles: Standard & Upgraded Options
Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense, and we only use products from manufacturers we know and trust. We offer both standard and upgraded options for four of the most reputable brands in the roofing industry.
GAF Shingles
Standard
Timberline® NS (Natural Shadow)
- Most popular architectural shingle in America.
- Wind resistance up to 130 mph.
- Lifetime limited warranty.
- 🔍 Product Info
Upgrade
Timberline HDZ®
- LayerLock™ Technology for superior fastening.
- 99.9% nail placement accuracy.
- Algae-resistant and higher wind resistance.
- 🔍 Product Info
Top of the Line
Timberline UHDZ® with UltraMat™
- Thicker shingle for enhanced durability.
- Advanced algae protection.
- Industry-leading lifetime limited warranty.
- 🔍 Product Info
Owens Corning Shingles
Standard
Oakridge® Shingles
- Warm, inviting look with a soft texture.
- 110/130 mph wind resistance.
- 🔍 Product Info
Upgrade
Duration® Series
- SureNail® Technology for strength.
- TruDefinition® color granules for enhanced curb appeal.
- Upgraded algae resistance.
- 🔍 Product Info
Atlas Shingles
Standard
Pinnacle® Pristine
- Features Scotchgard™ Protector against black streaks.
- 130 mph wind warranty.
- 🔍 Product Info
Upgrade
StormMaster® Shake
- Class 4 impact resistance.
- SBS-modified asphalt for flexibility.
- 🔍 Product Info
CertainTeed Shingles
Upgrade
Landmark Pro®
- Heavier weight and thicker construction.
- Superior color and stain resistance.
- 🔍 Product Info
🌈 Color Options
Each brand offers a range of color palettes—from traditional grays and browns to vibrant reds and modern slates. Choosing the right color can:
- Boost resale value by up to 6% (according to Zillow).
- Improve energy efficiency with solar-reflective granules.
- Match HOA requirements and enhance curb appeal.
🏠 Gutters & Gutter Guards
We offer custom-fit gutters tailored to your home’s roofline to ensure optimal water drainage.
Gutter Guards
Standard
Wire Mesh
- Affordable and effective for moderate leaf coverage.
Upgrade
Stainless Steel Micro Mesh
- Ideal for homes surrounded by pine or deciduous trees. Superior durability and clogs less often.
Choosing the Right Gutter Protection
The type of trees in your area (oak, maple, pine) affects the kind of gutter guard that’s best for you. During our free inspection, we’ll recommend the optimal solution based on foliage density.
🔄 Roof Ventilation Options
Proper attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup, mold, and premature shingle aging.
Standard
No Specific Brand
- Basic ridge or box vents
Upgrade
GAF Cobra Vent
- Exhausts hot, moist air from attic.
- Improves energy efficiency and extends roof life.
- 🔍 Product Info
🛡️ Underlayment
The underlayment is a moisture-resistant barrier installed beneath your shingles.
Standard
Synthetic Felt
- Lightweight and cost-effective.
- Water-resistant and tear-resistant.
Upgrade
GAF Deck-Armor™
- Breathable materials that prevent moisture buildup.
- Enhanced protection during installation.
- 🔍 Product Info
🌞 Skylights & Sun Tunnels
We install Velux® skylights and sun tunnels, the industry leader in natural lighting solutions.
Skylights
- Fixed or vented options.
- Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways.
- 🔍 Product Info
Sun Tunnels
- Available in 10″ and 14″ sizes.
- Great for closets, hallways, and dark interiors.
- 🔍 Product Info
📊 Comparison Table: Roofing Material Options
| Component | Standard Option | Upgrade Option | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shingles | GAF Timberline NS, OC Oakridge, etc. | GAF HDZ, OC Duration, etc. | GAF, OC, Atlas, CertainTeed |
| Underlayment | Synthetic Felt | GAF Deck-Armor, Tiger Paw | GAF |
| Gutters | Custom Aluminum | Custom with guards | Litespeed Construction |
| Gutter Guards | Wire Mesh | Stainless Micro Mesh | Various |
| Vents | Standard Ridge Vent | GAF Cobra Vent | GAF |
| Pipe Boots | No-name Neoprene | Optional Lead Pipe Boots | Various |
| Skylights | Velux Fixed | Velux Vented | Velux |
| Sun Tunnels | 10" or 14" | Same, upgraded lens options | Velux |
🌟 Web Ratings – What Homeowners Are Saying
| Source | Rating (Out of 5) | Common Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Google Reviews | 4.9 | Timely, professional, honest assessments |
| Better Business Bureau (BBB) | A+ | Great customer service and clean-up |
| Angi (formerly Angie’s List) | 4.7 | High-quality materials, fair pricing |
FAQs about Roofing Materials
With proper installation, they can last up to 50 years under warranty.
Yes, especially if your home is surrounded by trees. They reduce clogs and maintenance.
We recommend sticking to one brand system to maintain warranty integrity.
Synthetic is more durable, tear-resistant, and waterproof.
We offer digital renderings to help you visualize before installation.
When properly installed (like Velux products), skylights are leak-free and covered by warranty.
It depends on your roof size, but upgrades typically add 10–20% to the cost.
Atlas (with Scotchgard) and GAF HDZ offer top-tier algae resistance.
They have a heavier composition, making them more durable in storms.
Yes, with proper temperatures and materials, roofing can be installed year-round.
Why Knoxville Homeowners Trust Litespeed Construction
✅ GAF Master Elite™ Certified Contractor
✅ Manufacturer-Approved Installation Experts
✅ Licensed, Insured & Certified Roofing Contractor
✅ Tailored Material Recommendations
✅ Access to the Best Warranties in the Industry
✅ Locally Owned with 15+ Years of Roofing Experience
✅ Highly Rated Across Online Platforms
✅ Responsive & Reliable Communication
Call us for a free estimate
COMMERCIAL Roof Repair
If your business is in need of a roof repair, we are the #1 expert in Commercial Roof Repair in the Knoxville area. We have over a decade of quality roof repairs, Litespeed will fix that leak fast and right the first time! Because we know how important your Business is to you.
Emergency Roof Repair
As a homeowner, you never want to experience an Emergency Roof Repair, but there are times when Mother Nature has other plans in store. However, in the event of an emergency, it is important to have a go-to roofing contractor to contact to get professional repairs done quickly in order to prevent further damage.
Roof Leak Repair
Roof Leak Repair is something that we have been doing right for over a decade. We are fast and we get the job done correctly the first time.
If you need a repair, call us today and we can help you solve your problem fast.
Call: (865) 297-3286
Gutter Repairs & Replacements
Call us for a free estimate
Residential Roof Repair
If your home is in need of a roof repair, we are the #1 expert in Residential Roof Repair in the Knoxville area and you are at the right place! With over a decade of quality roof repairs, Litespeed will fix that leak fast and right the first time! Because we know how important your home is to you.
COMMERCIAL Roof Repair
If your business is in need of a roof repair, we are the #1 expert in Commercial Roof Repair in the Knoxville area. We have over a decade of quality roof repairs, Litespeed will fix that leak fast and right the first time! Because we know how important your Business is to you.
Emergency Roof Repair
As a homeowner, you never want to experience an Emergency Roof Repair, but there are times when Mother Nature has other plans in store. However, in the event of an emergency, it is important to have a go-to roofing contractor to contact to get professional repairs done quickly in order to prevent further damage.
Roof Leak Repair
Roof Leak Repair is something that we have been doing right for over a decade. We are fast and we get the job done correctly the first time.
If you need a repair, call us today and we can help you solve your problem fast.
Call: (865) 297-3286