Comparing IKO Shingles: Cambridge® vs. Dynasty® vs. Nordic™
When it comes to protecting your home and enhancing curb appeal, the right roofing shingle makes all the difference. At C&W Roofing, Siding & Window Co., we proudly install IKO’s top asphalt shingle lines — Cambridge®, Dynasty®, and Nordic™ — each offering unique benefits for durability, aesthetics, and weather performance.
The experts at C&W Roofing, Siding, and Window Co. are here to help you understand how these three premium IKO shingle lines differ, what they share in common, and which one is best for your home.
Why Choose IKO?
IKO is a global leader in roofing materials, known for innovation in impact resistance, wind protection, and architectural appeal. Whether you need a simple upgrade or a high-performance roofing system, IKO shingles deliver long-lasting performance backed by limited lifetime warranties and modern design.
All three options — Cambridge®, Dynasty®, and Nordic™ — are laminate (architectural) asphalt shingles, offering a multi-layered, dimensional look that mimics natural wood shakes. But beyond appearances, the technology and materials used in each product line vary significantly.
Shared Features Across All IKO Shingles
Before we compare individual lines, let’s look at what all three options offer:
Architectural Style: Each shingle is laminated for a rich, dimensional profile.
Hi-Definition Color Blends: IKO’s color granules deliver striking, high-contrast aesthetics.
Algae Resistance: All three lines include protection against blue-green algae to prevent discoloration.
Class A Fire Resistance: Rated for top-tier protection from external flame exposure.
IKO Warranty Coverage: All products are backed by IKO’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Built for Tough Conditions
With a Class 3 impact resistance rating and a wind rating of up to 130 mph, Dynasty shingles are ready to face South Carolina’s harshest weather.ArmourZone® Technology
A 1¼-inch reinforced nailing strip helps resist nail pull-through and blow-offs. The wider nailing area also improves installation speed and precision.FastLock® Sealant
Dynasty shingles include an aggressive adhesive strip that strengthens the bond between shingles, increasing wind uplift resistance and ensuring a weather-tight seal.
Detailed Breakdown Between IKO’s Performance Shingles
IKO Cambridge® Shingles: The Trusted Standard
Overview
IKO’s Cambridge shingles are among the most popular architectural shingles in North America, offering reliability and visual appeal at an affordable price. These shingles are engineered to withstand years of exposure to the elements while enhancing any home style — from traditional to modern.
Key Benefits
Durable Laminated Construction
Designed to withstand rain, sun, and wind over time with less curling and cracking.Hi-Definition Color Choices
Available in a broad palette to match any exterior design.Budget-Friendly Performance
Cambridge offers architectural appeal and weather resistance at a lower price point than Dynasty or Nordic.
Limitations
No ArmourZone® Reinforcement
Lacks the enhanced nail zone and wind resistance built into the higher-tier lines.Lower Impact Resistance
Does not carry a Class 3 or 4 impact resistance rating.
Best For:
Homeowners looking for a cost-effective upgrade from basic 3-tab shingles to something more dimensional, stylish, and long-lasting.
IKO Dynasty® Shingles: Style Meets Storm-Ready Strength
Overview
The Dynasty line is built for homeowners who want strong performance and bold visual presence. Featuring IKO’s exclusive ArmourZone® technology, Dynasty shingles are engineered to withstand high winds, resist nail pull-through, and lock down securely with FastLock® sealant.
Key Benefits
Class 3 Impact Resistance
Provides a higher level of protection against hail and flying debris.ArmourZone® Reinforced Nailing Strip
A 1¼” wide reinforced zone that reduces the risk of nail blow-through and shingle uplift during storms.Wind Resistance Up to 130 mph
Engineered to stay in place through hurricane-strength winds when installed correctly.FastLock® Sealant
Aggressive adhesive helps bond shingles together tightly and prevents water infiltration.
Oversized Shingles for Faster Installation
Larger format with 5 7/8″ exposure helps reduce installation time and improves visual consistency.
Limitations
Standard Oxidized Asphalt
While strong, it does not have the added flexibility or cold-weather performance of polymer-modified options like Nordic.Class 3 (Not Class 4) Impact Resistance
Great for moderate conditions, but may not qualify for insurance discounts in severe hail regions.
Best For:
Homeowners who want premium style, high wind resistance, and moderate impact protection — ideal for storm-prone areas like South Carolina.
IKO Nordic™ Shingles: Maximum Protection, Cold-Weather Ready
Overview
Nordic is IKO’s top-tier architectural shingle, designed for the most extreme weather conditions. Built with a polymer-modified asphalt core, Nordic shingles are more elastic, flexible, and able to absorb the force of impact without cracking — even in colder climates.
Key Benefits
Class 4 Impact Resistance
The highest possible rating for asphalt shingles — ideal for hail-prone areas and insurance premium reductions.Polymer-Modified Asphalt (SBS)
Provides flexibility during cold installations and extra resilience under impact, acting as a built-in shock absorber.ArmourZone® + FastLock® Technology
Just like Dynasty, Nordic includes reinforced nailing and secure sealing for storm-ready performance.Wind Resistance Up to 130 mph
Withstands extreme wind uplift when installed with only four nails.Heavyweight Construction
Among the thickest, strongest asphalt shingles available from IKO.
Limitations
Higher Price Point
With added protection and specialized asphalt, Nordic is the most expensive of the three.Limited Market Availability
Nordic shingles are available only in select U.S. regions — check with C&W for availability in your area.
Best For:
Homeowners in areas with severe hail, harsh winters, or frequent windstorms, or anyone who wants the absolute best asphalt shingle protection money can buy.
Which IKO Shingle Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick summary to help guide your decision:
Choose Cambridge® if you want a budget-friendly architectural upgrade with lasting curb appeal and reliable everyday protection.
Choose Dynasty® if you’re looking for a storm-ready roof with strong wind and impact resistance plus bold color options.
Choose Nordic™ if you want the best possible protection in hail, wind, and extreme climate conditions — and long-term peace of mind.
No matter your choice, C&W Roofing ensures your shingles are installed to spec, covered under warranty, and built to protect your home for decades to come.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Cambridge® vs. Dynasty® vs. Nordic™
| Feature | IKO Cambridge® | IKO Dynasty® | IKO Nordic™ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | Laminated Architectural | Laminated Architectural | Laminated Architectural |
| Asphalt Composition | Standard Oxidized Asphalt | Standard Oxidized Asphalt | Polymer-Modified (SBS) |
| Impact Resistance Rating | Not Rated | Class 3 | Class 4 |
| Wind Rating | Estimated ~110 mph | Up to 130 mph | Up to 130 mph |
| ArmourZone® Strip | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| FastLock® Sealant | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Algae Resistance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Cold-Weather Flexibility | Standard | Moderate | Excellent |
| Fire Resistance | Class A | Class A | Class A |
| Shingle Size & Exposure | Standard | Oversized (5 7/8") | Oversized (5 7/8") |
| Color Blends | Wide Range | Hi-Def, Bold | Hi-Def, Bold |
| Market Availability | Nationwide | Nationwide | Select Markets |
| Ideal Buyer | Value-Focused | Performance-Focused | Protection-Focused |
Get Expert Guidance from C&W Roofing
Still not sure which option fits your home and budget? Contact C&W Roofing, Siding & Window Co. for a no-pressure consultation. We’ll walk you through the features, colors, pricing, and warranties to help you make the best choice for your family.
