In this guide, we’ll walk through the differences between Landmark vs Landmark Pro shingles, help you understand what each brings to the table, and assist you in choosing what’s best for your roof.
What Are CertainTeed Landmark and Landmark Pro Shingles?
Before getting into the details, here’s a quick refresher on what each product is:
- CertainTeed Landmark: An architectural, dual‑layer (laminate) asphalt shingle designed to provide a dimensional look (often mimicking wood shake or slate) with solid performance backups like durable mats, good wind resistance, and weather protection.
- CertainTeed Landmark Pro: A step up in the Landmark family. It includes enhanced features — thicker material, more weight, richer colors, stronger warranties in certain areas — while keeping much of the core Landmark backbone.
Because both are in the Landmark family, they share fundamentals like fire resistance, basic warranties, and many of the same installation attributes. Where they diverge is what makes “Pro” the premium version.
Key Differences Between Landmark vs Landmark Pro
Here are the major areas where Landmark Pro outperforms or differs from standard Landmark shingles:
Similarities: What Landmark and Landmark Pro Share
Because Landmark Pro is essentially an upgraded version of Landmark, there are many shared attributes. Understanding the similarities helps you see what you already get even with the standard line, and what you are paying extra for in the Pro line.
- Dual‑layered (laminate) architecture: Both are architectural shingles (not simple 3‑tab) and offer a dimensional look.
- Fire Resistance: Both carry the Class A fire rating. That’s the top rating for asphalt shingles against fire.
- Wind Warranty Base: Both offer a 110 mph wind resistance warranty, with possible upgrades under certain installation conditions.
- Warranty Transferability & Manufacturer Credibility: Both are backed by CertainTeed, with lifetime limited warranties, and reputable guarantee protection (material defects, etc.).
Why These Differences Matter
Let’s dig into why these differences are significant, especially when choosing a roof that will perform well over many years.
- Weather & Environmental Exposure
In areas with strong storms, frequent hail, heavy UV exposure, or humidity, higher durability (thickness, better color retention, longer algae resistance) means less maintenance, fewer repairs, and better appearance over time. - Curb Appeal & Resale Value
Richer color options and deeper, more vibrant finishes with Pro shingles can enhance how your home looks — and make a difference when selling. Buyers often notice roof condition and aesthetic finish. - Long‑Term Cost vs Upfront Cost
While Pro costs more initially, if it resists weather damage better, has fewer repairs, retains its look longer, and maybe qualifies for better warranties, it may deliver better value overall. - Warranty Protection
Longer algae/streak warranties can save you trouble (cleaning, staining issues). Also, in certain climates (humid, forested, etc.), algae growth is more likely, so this becomes especially relevant. - Installation & Handling
Heavier shingles (Pro) may require more labor effort, more care, and possibly extra reinforcement. If installation is sub‑par, even premium shingles may underperform. So in choosing Pro, making sure you have a qualified installer matters.
👉 Looking to understand the full financial impact of your roofing choice? See our full roof investment breakdown.
What to Consider for Your Roof
Every home is different. To decide whether Landmark or Landmark Pro is better for your situation, ask yourself:
- Climate & Weather
Are you in a region with frequent storms, hail, severe sun, or large temperature swings? Does moisture or algae growth tend to be a problem? - Aesthetic Goals
Do you prioritize a roof that makes a strong visual statement? Do you want the richest color selection? Are you matching certain architectural styles or wanting maximum curb appeal? - Budget Constraints
How much difference in cost are you willing to accept? How long do you plan to stay in the home? If selling soon, you might value curb appeal more; if long‑term, durability pays more. - Warranty Requirements
Do you care about algae or streak coverage for a longer time? Do you want better protection against color fade or staining? - Installer Quality
To get the best from Pro shingles, installation must be done to spec. Proper nailing, underlayment, ventilation, flashing, etc. Even the best materials will underperform if installation is inferior.
👉 See how Landmark and Landmark Pro compare to other top-rated CertainTeed shingles in our full guide.
Situations Where Landmark Is a Very Good Choice
While Pro offers upgrades, standard Landmark continues to be a strong, reliable shingle. Landmark may be the better fit when:
- Your location has moderate weather: not too many hail events, mild winters/summers, less humidity.
- Your budget is more limited, but you still want a solid architectural shingle, a good warranty, and good aesthetics.
- You like the color options available in the standard line and don’t require the premium palette or the highest visual texture.
- You plan to own the home, but your priorities are more about cost control and getting good performance rather than maximizing every enhancement.
Situations Where Landmark Pro Makes More Sense
Landmark Pro is the better choice when:
- Your area is harsher: strong storms, hail, high UV / heat, frequent rain, or algae issues.
- You want a roof that looks top-notch, stands out, and retains its appearance longer. If curb appeal and resale are important.
- You want longer coverage for streaks/algae / better long‑term appearance without frequent cleaning or maintenance.
- You intend to stay in the home for many years, making the premium paid back through fewer issues, lower maintenance, and better durability.
What to Look for in Warranty Terms
Here are the warranty details you should check carefully when comparing Landmark vs Landmark Pro:
- Duration of algae/streak protection (25 vs 30 years).
- Whether the warranty is transferable (if you sell the home). Both are, but check the specifics.
- What wind speeds are covered (110 mph base; upgrades possible). Also, check what components are required (starter strip, hip/ridge accessories, underlayment) to qualify for higher wind ratings.
- Any exclusions: color fading, granule loss, environmental staining, etc. Many warranties cover manufacturing defects and performance under normal conditions, but extremes or misuse may not be covered.
👉 Make sure your new roof qualifies for full warranty coverage—see what voids warranties and how to avoid it.
Maintenance, Appearance & Lifespan
Even the best shingles don’t last forever without some care. Here’s how Landmark and Landmark Pro behave over the years and what to expect:
- Granule Loss: Both will lose granules over time; heavier, thicker shingles (Pro) tend to retain more of their surface textures and color longer.
- Algae / Staining: In humid or shaded environments, algae and moss can grow; Pro’s longer algae warranty + possibly more resistant granule coating helps here.
- Color Fade: UV exposure causes fading. Pro’s richer granule coats and color options are often better at resisting fade.
- Physical wear: In high wind, hail, snow, etc. Pro may resist damage better due to greater mass, thicker asphalt, and better laminations.
Common Misconceptions & What to Watch Out For
- “Pro means you get everything perfect” — Even Landmark Pro won’t compensate for a poorly installed roof. Proper underlayment, cold weather handling, ventilation, flashing, etc., still matter.
- “The more expensive, the better always by leaps” — There are diminishing returns: if your climate is mild, some of the Pro features may not deliver much extra benefit vs their cost.
- “Color choices aren’t that different” — For many, the difference in color variety and depth is noticeable; if you’re building or selling, this can matter. But if you only see the color occasionally, perhaps not as important.
- Warranties often include conditions — To get full benefits (wind upgrades, algae warranties, etc.), you often need certain accessories, specific installation practices, and certified installers. Read the fine print.
How Gorilla Roofing Helps You Decide
At Gorilla Roofing, we understand how important the right roof is — both functionally and visually. Here’s how we support homeowners in picking between Landmark vs Landmark Pro:
- We show you physical samples and color boards on‑site so you can see real light/color interactions.
- We analyze your local climate: how often hail or storms hit, how damp or shaded your roof is, how strong the UV exposure is.
- We provide transparent cost breakdowns: material, labor, accessory costs, estimated maintenance.
- We guide you through reading warranty terms: what the warranty covers, what conditions you must meet (e.g. proper starter and hip/ridge, ventilation, etc.).
- We factor in your long‑term goals: how long you plan to stay, resale aspirations, desired look, neighborhood expectations.
👉 Hiring a licensed, insured roofer like Gorilla Roofing protects your home and your warranty—here’s why it matters.
Choosing the Right Landmark Shingle for Your Roof
Deciding between CertainTeed Landmark and Landmark Pro comes down to balancing cost, durability, and desired appearance.
If you want a high‑quality, reliable architectural shingle that still delivers good performance, Landmark gets you most of the core benefits. For many homeowners, it’s a great choice — solid warranty, good aesthetics, lower upfront cost.
If you want that extra level — longer algae/streak protection, richer and more vibrant colors, slightly stronger resistance to wear and weather, better long‑term appearance — Landmark Pro is worth the upgrade.
Let’s Nail Down the Best Choice for Your Home
At Gorilla Roofing, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch roofing services with integrity and professionalism. Our team is licensed, insured, and committed to exceeding your expectations.
📞 Call us today at (636) 295-1212
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For expert assistance and personalized assessment, contact Gorilla Roofing today.
Let’s find the right level of protection, performance, and beauty for your home.