GAF Celebrates 125 Years As Leader In Roofing Industry

Wayne, N.J.-based GAF celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. The company has a long history of innovation that dates back to its founding in 1886 and has primarily focused on the manufacturing of roofing materials for residential and commercial applications.

GAF, which formally stood for “General Aniline & Film” was originally active in the manufacturing of analine dyes, specialty chemicals,  photographic films, and Viewmaster; for a brief time in the 1970s, it was the official film of Disneyland. But its roofing focus is what propelled GAF forward and its commitment to innovation led the company to be the originators of many standard roofing products today.

Towards the end of the 1800s, GAF was the first to offer ready-to-lay asphalt roofing. This was followed in the early 1900s by the first use of colored granules in roofing materials, the introduction of individually cut asphalt shingles, and the first interlocking asphalt shingles. In 1967 GAF developed today’s most laminated shingle:  Timberline.  In the second half of the century, GAF introduced lighter weight and higher performance asphalt shingles as well as shingles with High Definition colors.

The new millennium brought a focus on commercial roofing, with GAF’s introduction of self-adhered TPO membranes and the first pre-coated energy-efficient modified bitumen membranes. In recent years, the company  has introduced the first energy-efficient asphalt shingle available in rich colors, the first capstocked composite decking product, a technology called Advanced Protection to create lower-weight and higher performing shingles, and solar grade TPO membranes.

Adding to its list of “firsts,” in 2011 GAF became the first roofing manufacturer to offer an industry-changing, lifetime limited warranty on all laminated and designer shingles. Over the years, GAF’s customers have come to recognize it for its advanced quality, industry expertise, and solutions made simple — qualities that the company continues to embody today.

United Roofing & Remodeling is the leading Minnesota commercial roofing contractor for high-performance roofing systems for commercial and industrial properties in the Twin Cities. We offer our customers the industry’s most comprehensive customer support, installation and repair services. We have also earned the distinguished designation of Master from GAF for installation of commercial Thermoplastic Roofing Systems.