I've generally used Owens Corning over the years, in part because they've been around so long and manufacture good products.

But we also use Certainteed, GAF, ELF, Tamko, etc. One reason we may use other brands at times is because of color selection. Another reason can be because a particular style is not available from Owens Corning. In fact, if my supplier happens to run out of a certain Owens Corning product, and it's available from another manufacturer, I have no qualms at all about switching...as long as I'm informed the homeowner and they don't care. I think all these manufacturers make good, and more or less equal quality of products. I think SOME guys who may use one particular brand have more of a "Ford vs Chevy mentality". Not saying that about your contractor though.

A roof CAN be your friend

Every shingle company has had "issues" at some point. Most Shingles are good, but I do know some installers that don't like installing certain brands...some people have had bad luck for whatever reason or circumstance...i.e. Owens Corning has the tendency to give guys more fiberglass slivers and aren't always as consistent in the pattern, but they are a nice looking shingle with real nice shadow lines. It boils down to representation and "if" there is a problem will they take care of it in a quick and friendly manner. I have sold ALL brands of shingles, Elk, GAF, Tamko, IKO, Certainteed, Owens-Corning, Globe, Atlas and more and honestly had the best luck with Certainteed...they just seem to back up their "issues" better and quicker in the midwest area that I live.