CertainTeed Shingles: Landmark vs Landmark Pro and What You Should Know Before Choosing
If you are planning a roof replacement, one of the biggest decisions you will make is the type of shingles going on your home. There are a lot of brands out there, but most of the market comes down to three major manufacturers. CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning dominate the asphalt shingle industry.
Out of those three, CertainTeed shingles are known for their weight, build quality, and long term performance. We install all types depending on the project, but CertainTeed is one of the brands we consistently trust, especially here in Southeast Michigan where roofs take a beating from snow, ice, and wind.
A common question we get from homeowners is simple
What is the difference between Landmark and Landmark Pro, and which one should I choose
This guide will walk you through the differences and also explain why the full roofing system matters just as much as the shingle itself.
Why CertainTeed Shingles Stand Out
CertainTeed has built a strong reputation by focusing on quality and consistency. When you compare shingles side by side with other major brands, a few things stand out right away
-
Heavier construction compared to many competitors
-
Consistent manufacturing quality
-
Strong warranty options
-
Proven performance in colder climates
In Michigan, that heavier build really matters. Your roof deals with freeze thaw cycles, ice dams, and wind driven storms. Lighter shingles can wear out faster under those conditions.
Landmark vs Landmark Pro
Both Landmark and Landmark Pro are architectural shingles. That means they are thicker than basic three tab shingles and designed to give a more dimensional look.
At first glance, they look very similar. The differences show up over time.
Thickness and Build Quality
Landmark Pro is built heavier than standard Landmark.
That added weight helps with
-
Wind resistance
-
Overall durability
-
Long term wear
It may not seem like a big difference on paper, but in the field it matters. Heavier shingles tend to hold up better over the years, especially in climates like ours.
Impact Resistance
Landmark Pro generally carries a higher impact rating than Landmark.
This can help in situations like
-
Hail
-
Falling branches
-
Storm debris
It is not indestructible, but it does offer more protection compared to the standard version.
Color and Appearance
This is where most homeowners notice the difference right away.
Landmark Pro uses enhanced color blends that give the roof more depth and contrast. The finished look is more defined and stands out better from the street.
Landmark still looks good, but the tones are flatter and less dynamic.
If curb appeal matters to you, Landmark Pro is the better looking option.
Algae Resistance
Both shingles are designed to resist algae streaking, which is common in areas with moisture and tree coverage.
Landmark Pro typically comes with a longer algae resistance warranty, which helps keep the roof looking clean over time.
Cost vs Value
Landmark Pro does cost more than Landmark.
That said, the price difference is usually small compared to the total cost of a roof replacement.
For that upgrade, you are getting
-
A heavier shingle
-
Better visual appearance
-
Improved durability
-
Longer lasting performance
When homeowners ask us which direction to go, Landmark Pro is usually the recommendation when budget allows, especially when comparing across the three major manufacturers.
A Roof Is a System, Not Just Shingles
One of the biggest mistakes we see is focusing only on the shingles.
Your roof is a system made up of multiple parts. If one part is missing or installed incorrectly, it can cause problems down the line no matter how good the shingles are.
Here are the key components that go into a proper CertainTeed roofing system.
Ice and Water Shield
Ice and water shield is installed in the most vulnerable areas of your roof.
This includes
-
Eaves
-
Valleys
-
Around chimneys and roof penetrations
In Michigan, this is critical. Ice dams can force water under your shingles. This membrane seals around nails and helps prevent leaks in those situations.
Synthetic Underlayment
Under your shingles sits a layer of synthetic underlayment such as RoofRunner.
This material
-
Adds a secondary layer of water protection
-
Helps protect the roof deck during installation
-
Performs better than traditional felt paper
It is a small detail that makes a big difference in overall system performance.
Starter Shingles
Starter shingles are installed along the edges of the roof.
They help
-
Seal the first row of shingles
-
Prevent wind from getting underneath
-
Create a straight clean edge
Skipping proper starter strips is one of the easiest ways for a roof to fail early in high wind conditions.
Cap Shingles
Cap shingles are used on the ridges and hips of the roof.
These areas take the most exposure to wind and weather. Standard shingles are not designed for this application.
Proper cap shingles
-
Provide better wind resistance
-
Finish the roof cleanly
-
Help meet manufacturer warranty requirements
Ventilation Is Critical
Even the best CertainTeed shingles will not perform properly without good ventilation.
A balanced system includes
-
Intake ventilation at the lower part of the roof
-
Exhaust ventilation at the ridge
This allows air to move through the attic and helps regulate temperature and moisture.
Without proper ventilation, you can run into
-
Ice dams
-
Mold and moisture issues
-
Shortened shingle life
Installation Matters Just As Much As Materials
You can choose a great product, but if it is not installed correctly, you will still have problems.
Proper installation includes
-
Following manufacturer guidelines
-
Using the correct accessories
-
Ensuring proper ventilation
-
Paying attention to details like flashing and sealing
CertainTeed warranties are also tied to using a full system. That means starter shingles, underlayment, and cap shingles all play a role in protecting your investment.
Are CertainTeed Shingles a Good Choice
When comparing the major asphalt shingle manufacturers, CertainTeed consistently ranks near the top for build quality and long term performance.
That does not mean it is the only good option, but it is one we trust and install regularly.
Within their lineup, Landmark Pro stands out as a strong upgrade over standard Landmark. It offers better durability, better appearance, and better long term value for most homeowners.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right roof is about more than just picking a color or brand.
You need to consider
-
The quality of the shingle
-
The full roofing system
-
The installation process
-
The contractor doing the work
CertainTeed shingles are a solid option when you want reliability and long term performance. When comparing across the three major manufacturers, Landmark Pro is one of the strongest architectural shingles available.
If you are thinking about replacing your roof or just want an honest opinion, we are happy to take a look and walk you through your options.
Check out our blog here for more information on Certainteed products and projects we’ve completed with them.