Roofing Project Spotlight: CertainTeed NorthGate SBS Shingles and Velux Skylight in Dearborn, MI
When it comes to protecting a home in Michigan, the roof is one of the most important investments a homeowner will ever make. Our team recently completed a 21-square roofing project in Dearborn, MI, featuring CertainTeed NorthGate SBS shingles and a brand-new Velux skylight with a solar-activated sunshade.
This project gave us the chance to highlight why choosing the right materials, having a transparent process, and focusing on quality over the lowest price makes such a big difference. Today, we’ll share the story of this project, explain what makes SBS shingles unique, and go over the benefits they bring to Michigan homeowners.
Starting the Project: Building Trust in Dearborn
When we first met the homeowner in Dearborn, they were already comparing bids from several roofing companies. Like many homeowners, they wanted to balance cost, quality, and trust. We weren’t the lowest bid they received. In fact, some other companies came in with lower numbers.
But what set us apart was our transparency and attention to detail. From the very beginning, we took the time to explain exactly what materials we would use, why CertainTeed NorthGate SBS shingles are a smart choice for Michigan weather, and what steps we would take to protect their home during installation.
By focusing on clear communication and honesty, we were able to earn their trust. They saw that the investment wasn’t just about getting a new roof—it was about getting the right roof installed the right way.
What Is an SBS Shingle?
One of the highlights of this project was the use of CertainTeed NorthGate SBS modified asphalt shingles. But what does “SBS” mean, and why does it matter?
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SBS stands for Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene, a type of rubber-based polymer.
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When added to asphalt shingles, SBS makes them more flexible, impact-resistant, and durable.
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SBS shingles are sometimes referred to as “rubberized shingles” because of their flexibility and strength.
In short, SBS shingles combine the strength of asphalt with the flexibility of rubber. This creates a roofing shingle that can better handle extreme temperatures, high winds, and sudden weather changes—all of which Michigan homeowners are very familiar with.
Why SBS Shingles Are a Great Choice for Michigan Homes
Michigan weather is known for being unpredictable. Winters bring heavy snow and ice, springs bring storms and high winds, and summers bring heat and humidity. Standard asphalt shingles can struggle with these conditions, but SBS shingles like CertainTeed NorthGate are designed to stand up to the challenge.
Here are some key benefits:
1. Flexibility in Cold Weather
When temperatures drop, traditional shingles can become brittle and prone to cracking. SBS shingles remain flexible even in freezing conditions, which helps prevent damage during installation and throughout winter.
2. Impact Resistance
Hail and falling debris can easily damage ordinary shingles. SBS shingles have Class 4 impact resistance—the highest rating available. This means they are less likely to crack or break when hit.
3. High Wind Resistance
Michigan storms can bring gusts of 60–70 mph. SBS shingles are built to resist high winds, reducing the risk of shingles blowing off and leaving the roof exposed.
4. Longer Lifespan
Because they are tougher and more weather-resistant, SBS shingles tend to last longer than standard shingles. This makes them a smart investment for Michigan homeowners who want peace of mind.
5. Better Warranty Protection
CertainTeed offers excellent warranties on their products, and choosing a premium shingle like NorthGate can give homeowners stronger coverage.
Installing the New Skylight with Solar Shade
In addition to replacing the roof, the homeowner wanted a new skylight. We installed a Velux skylight with a solar-activated sunshade, which brought even more value to the project.
Benefits of the Velux Solar Skylight System:
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Natural Light: Skylights bring in daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a brighter living space.
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Energy Efficiency: The solar-powered shade helps control heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter.
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Convenience: The sunshade is powered by solar energy, which means no wiring is required. It can be controlled with a remote for ease of use.
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Added Style: A skylight adds beauty and openness to a home’s interior, while improving curb appeal from the outside.
The homeowner was thrilled with how much natural light the skylight brought into their space and appreciated the modern convenience of the solar sunshade.
The Installation Process in Dearborn
Our crew got to work on this 21-square roofing project with the same attention to detail we bring to every job. Here’s what the process looked like:
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Preparation and Protection
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We covered landscaping and set up protective barriers around the home.
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Safety measures were put in place to keep both our crew and the homeowner’s property secure.
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Tear-Off of the Old Roof
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We removed the existing shingles and underlayment, checking for any damage to the decking.
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Any compromised areas were repaired before moving forward.
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Underlayment and Ice & Water Shield
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Michigan building codes require protection against ice dams, so we installed high-quality ice and water shield along the eaves and valleys.
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Synthetic underlayment was added for an extra layer of defense.
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Installing the CertainTeed NorthGate SBS Shingles
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Shingles were installed carefully, with attention to manufacturer guidelines.
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Proper nailing and alignment were maintained to ensure wind resistance and warranty protection.
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Skylight Installation
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We cut in and installed the new Velux skylight with proper flashing to ensure a leak-free fit.
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The solar-activated sunshade was tested and adjusted for smooth operation.
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Clean-Up and Final Inspection
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The yard was thoroughly cleaned, including magnet sweeps for nails.
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A final inspection was done with the homeowner to make sure every detail met their expectations.
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Why We Weren’t the Lowest Bid
It’s important to address something many homeowners experience when shopping for a new roof: wide variations in price. We weren’t the cheapest bid in Dearborn. Some other companies came in lower.
But here’s the difference:
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We use premium materials. Not every roofer installs SBS shingles or offers upgraded underlayment and flashing systems.
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We prioritize installation quality. Cutting corners on a roof may save money upfront, but it leads to problems down the road.
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We’re transparent. Our proposal laid out exactly what was included, so the homeowner knew what they were paying for.
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We stand behind our work. A lower bid often comes with fewer protections, both in warranty and accountability.
In the end, the homeowner decided that value and trust mattered more than a low price tag. They wanted the job done once, and done right.
The Finished Result
The completed project in Dearborn gave the homeowner:
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A durable, weather-resistant roof with CertainTeed NorthGate SBS shingles.
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A modern skylight with a solar sunshade, adding comfort and natural light to the home.
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The peace of mind that comes from knowing the roof was installed with care, transparency, and high-quality materials.
The new roof looks great, performs even better, and is built to handle Michigan’s unpredictable climate for years to come.
Why This Matters for Michigan Homeowners
If you live in Dearborn—or anywhere in Michigan—you know how tough the seasons can be on a home. Choosing the right roofing company and materials is essential.
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Cheap bids often cost more in the long run. A roof installed with lower-quality shingles or poor workmanship won’t last, leading to leaks, repairs, and early replacement.
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Transparency matters. Knowing what you’re paying for and why helps you make a confident choice.
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Premium shingles like CertainTeed NorthGate are worth it. They’re designed for climates like Michigan, where flexibility, durability, and impact resistance are crucial.
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Upgrades add value. Skylights and other additions improve both comfort and efficiency.
Final Thoughts
This Dearborn roofing project shows what happens when homeowners invest in the right materials and the right team. By choosing CertainTeed NorthGate SBS shingles and a Velux solar skylight, they got a roof that will stand up to Michigan’s toughest weather while adding comfort and style to their home.
We may not have been the lowest bid, but our transparency, quality, and commitment to doing things the right way built trust with the homeowner and delivered a result they can rely on for decades.
If you’re in Dearborn or anywhere in Southeast Michigan and are considering a roof replacement, skylight upgrade, or want to learn more about SBS shingles, reach out to us today. We’d be happy to walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you protect your biggest investment—your home.