Date
Thu Feb 23Here in the Pacific Northwest, a roof has to do more than just look good—it has to work hard. It needs to stand up to months of rain, strong winds, and whatever else our local climate throws at it. This is why choosing the right shingle is so critical for protecting your home. CertainTeed’s Landmark series is engineered to handle these exact conditions, offering superior durability and weather resistance. In this post, we’ll explore the features that make these shingles a reliable choice for Puget Sound homes. At Landmark Roofing, we believe in using products that are proven to last right here in our community.
Why Investing in Your Roof Pays Off
All year long, your home’s roof protects you from the elements—torrential rain, deep freezes, heat waves, and more. To ensure that your roof continues to safeguard your home and keep it energy-efficient, you need to support the full lifecycle of your roofing system.
At Landmark Roofing & Siding, we’ve served the Puget Sound area as residential and commercial roofing experts for over 15 years. Working with homeowners throughout King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties, we help maximize the lifespan, value, and energy efficiency of their roofs. Whether that means routine maintenance or a complete replacement, investing in your roof is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your home.
If you’re considering a replacement soon, be sure to read our detailed guide on how to replace a roof and what to expect during the re-roofing process for practical tips on timing, cost, and materials before you begin.
Of course, we know that deciding to spend on roof replacement or maintenance can be challenging. Between the other needs of your home and everything you’re juggling in your everyday life, it can be easy to wonder if your roof is what you should prioritize right now. With that in mind, we created this guide on why to invest in your home’s roofing. Read all of our reasons below!
GET A FREE ESTIMATE1. Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan
While many roofs last between 20-50 years, inclement weather events like hurricanes can decrease the lifecycle of your roof. As weather events like flooding, hurricanes, forest fires, and other weather disasters increase throughout the US, residential roofs are wearing down even more. According to data from NOAA Climate.gov,
“In 2021, the U.S. experienced 20 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters, putting 2021 in second place for the most disasters in a calendar year, behind the record 22 separate billion-dollar events in 2020.”
Throughout the US and in the Pacific Northwest, homeowners are facing more adverse weather than ever. Roof maintenance and even replacement can ensure that roofing experts can make repairs caused by these weather events and even replace your home’s roof with one more equipped to handle the weather in your area. Getting this maintenance means your roof will last longer and ensure you can keep your loved ones safe.
2. Increase Your Home’s Value
Getting roofing maintenance or replacement can also boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its overall value. Up-to-date roofing and energy-efficient materials can make your home worth even more when it’s time to sell. If you’re curious about how much of a difference a new roof can make when selling your home, check out our guide on how a new roof can increase your home’s value.
Because your exteriors and your roof are the first things new buyers see, making sure your roof is attractive and in good condition can lead to better sales. In addition, if you’re not planning on selling, well-maintained roofing just looks more attractive. That way, you can be proud of every aspect of your home.
3. Lower Your Energy Bills
Roofing can also boost energy efficiency in your home, so making this investment can lead to savings later on. According to the Department of Energy, a “cool roof” can provide a whole host of benefits because it,
“is designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof, absorbing less solar energy. This lowers the temperature of the building just as wearing light-colored clothing keeps you cool on a sunny day. Conventional roofs can reach temperatures of 150°F or more on a sunny summer afternoon, sun. Under the same conditions a reflective roof could stay more than 50°F (28 °C) cooler. This can save energy and money in buildings with air conditioning, or improve comfort and safety in buildings without air conditioning, by reducing heat flow from the roof into the occupied space.”
Of course, this can depend on the weather in your community. Our roofing experts can advise you on how we can make your roof more energy efficient and what works best for your area. We also have a variety of roofing styles, including:
- Cedar Shake Roofing- Considered a premium roofing product, cedar shake roofing is featured on many of the area’s finer homes
- Composition Roofing- Composition shingles deliver high performance and durability for residential roofing projects
- Metal Roofing- Available in a variety of styles and colors, metal roofing is one of the most durable on the market
- DaVinci Roofscapes- Making tough, natural-looking synthetic roofing materials
- Ecostar- Sustainable, synthetic slate and shake roofing alternatives to traditional residential roofing materials
We can help talk to you about each of these types of roofing materials and how to make it the most energy efficient for your home. That way investing in your roof can help you save money and make less of an energy footprint.
4. Spot Roof Damage Early
Finally, getting roof maintenance and working with Landmark Roofing and Siding can help you identify issues in your roofing before it becomes a bigger problem. The last thing you want is to be surprised by a leak in your roof or other kinds of damage. By getting regular maintenance and working with roofing experts, you can ensure that you can be on top of any repairs that are needed.
That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate service to help you determine your roofing needs. We can determine any issues with your roof and let you know our recommendations. That way, you can be proactive about any damage to your roof. Repairing this damage can benefit the lifecycle of your roof and prevent damage in other areas of your home.
An In-Depth Guide to CertainTeed Landmark Shingles
When it comes to choosing the right shingles for your home, the options can feel overwhelming. You want something that not only looks great but also stands up to the demanding weather we see here in the Puget Sound. That’s why CertainTeed’s Landmark series is a popular choice for homeowners. It strikes a fantastic balance between aesthetic appeal, durability, and value. As a trusted installer of CertainTeed products, we’ve seen firsthand how these shingles perform. Let’s walk through the different options in the Landmark line so you can find the perfect fit for your residential roofing project.
Exploring the Landmark Product Line
CertainTeed offers several tiers within the Landmark family, each designed to meet different needs and budgets. From the reliable standard option to premium, impact-resistant varieties, there’s a shingle for every home. Understanding the key differences will help you make an informed decision. The main variations come down to thickness, weight, and specialized features for enhanced durability. We can help you compare these options during your initial consultation to see which one aligns best with your home’s specific requirements and your long-term goals for protection and curb appeal.
The Standard: CertainTeed Landmark
The CertainTeed Landmark shingle is the cornerstone of the series and a popular choice for homeowners who want a strong, reliable, and attractive roof without breaking the bank. These architectural shingles feature a dual-layered design that mimics the appearance of true wood shake, adding dimension and character to your home. They are engineered for durability and come in a wide array of colors to match any exterior style. For many homeowners in the Redmond area, the standard Landmark shingle provides the ideal combination of performance and visual appeal, making it a go-to for quality roof replacements.
The Upgrade: Landmark Pro
If you’re looking for enhanced durability and an even richer look, Landmark Pro is a fantastic upgrade. These shingles are heavier and thicker than the standard Landmark, offering superior longevity and weather resistance. Landmark Pro also features Max Def colors, a specialized formula that provides deeper, more vibrant hues to create a stunning visual impact. This top-tier option is designed for homeowners who want a premium roof that not only looks great but also provides long-lasting performance, ensuring your home is protected for decades to come.
Impact-Resistant Options: ClimateFlex and Landmark TL
For the ultimate in protection against severe weather, CertainTeed offers specialized impact-resistant shingles. The Landmark ClimateFlex line incorporates advanced polymer technology, making the shingles more pliable and durable in harsh weather conditions, including hail. They carry a UL 2218 Class 3 or Class 4 impact resistance rating. Similarly, the Landmark TL is a triple-laminate shingle, making it one of the thickest and most durable options available. Choosing an impact-resistant shingle can provide peace of mind and may even help you secure a discount on your homeowner’s insurance policy.
Performance Ratings and Technical Details
Beyond looks, the technical specifications of a shingle are what truly determine how well it will protect your home. CertainTeed Landmark shingles are engineered with impressive performance ratings that stand up to fire, wind, and impact. These ratings aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet; they represent real-world protection against some of the most common threats to your roof’s integrity. Knowing what these ratings mean can give you confidence that you’re making a solid investment in your home’s safety and security for years to come.
Class A Fire Resistance
Safety is a top priority for any homeowner, and the Landmark series delivers with a Class A fire resistance rating. This is the highest rating a roofing material can achieve, indicating that the shingles are highly effective at resisting the spread of fire. This top-level classification means they provide superior protection against external fire sources, like embers from a nearby wildfire or stray fireworks. Choosing a shingle with a Class A rating is a critical step in safeguarding your home and your family from potential fire hazards.
Wind Resistance Up to 130 mph
In the Pacific Northwest, strong windstorms are a reality. Landmark shingles are designed to handle these conditions with ease. They come standard with a 110 mph wind-resistance warranty, which is more than enough for typical weather. However, for added assurance, this warranty can be upgraded to cover winds up to 130 mph when installed with the proper CertainTeed starter and hip and ridge cap shingles. This robust wind protection ensures your shingles stay put, preventing costly damage during severe storms and keeping your home secure.
Understanding Impact Ratings: Class 3 and Class 4
Impact ratings measure a shingle’s ability to withstand damage from objects like hail. The UL 2218 test involves dropping steel balls of varying sizes onto the shingle to simulate hail impact. A Class 3 rating means the shingle can withstand impact from a 1.75-inch steel ball, while a Class 4 rating—the highest available—means it can resist damage from a 2-inch ball. CertainTeed’s impact-resistant options, like ClimateFlex, are available with these ratings, offering an excellent defense against severe weather and helping to prevent dents and cracks that could compromise your roof.
Innovative Features
CertainTeed doesn’t just focus on durability; they also integrate smart features that enhance the beauty, installation process, and sustainability of their shingles. These innovations are designed to solve common homeowner problems, like algae growth, and to help contractors deliver a flawless installation every time. From keeping your roof looking clean to making it more environmentally friendly, these thoughtful details set the Landmark series apart and add significant long-term value to your roofing investment.
StreakFighter® Algae Resistance
One of the most common cosmetic issues for roofs in our damp climate is the appearance of ugly black streaks caused by blue-green algae. CertainTeed addresses this head-on with its StreakFighter® technology. This feature involves infusing copper granules into the shingles, which helps prevent algae from taking hold and staining your roof. This protection ensures your roof maintains its beautiful color and curb appeal for years, saving you from the hassle and expense of frequent cleaning.
NailTrak® for Easier Installation
A great roof depends on great installation. CertainTeed’s NailTrak® feature makes the installation process faster, easier, and more accurate for roofing professionals. It provides a wide, clearly marked nailing area on each shingle, which helps ensure every nail is placed correctly for optimal holding power. This simple but effective innovation reduces the risk of installation errors, leading to a more secure and reliable roof system that performs exactly as it was designed to.
RenuCore Technology for Sustainability
CertainTeed is also committed to environmental responsibility. Through their RenuCore technology, the company is actively working on recycling old shingles into new, high-performance roofing materials. This process helps divert tons of waste from landfills and reduces the need for virgin materials. By choosing a manufacturer that prioritizes sustainability, you’re not only getting a quality product for your home but also supporting efforts to create a more circular economy in the construction industry.
Understanding the Cost of a Landmark Roof
Investing in a new roof is a significant financial decision, and understanding the potential costs is the first step. While the quality of CertainTeed Landmark shingles is high, they remain a cost-effective option for many homeowners. The final price of a roof replacement depends on many variables, including the specific product you choose from the Landmark line, the size and complexity of your roof, and local labor rates. Providing a precise quote without an inspection is impossible, but we can give you a general idea of what to expect.
Average Replacement Costs
For a complete roofing system using CertainTeed Landmark shingles, most homeowners can expect the cost to fall somewhere between $14,900 and $23,100. This range typically covers everything from tearing off the old roof to materials, professional installation, and cleanup. Keep in mind that this is a broad estimate. Upgrading to a premium shingle like Landmark Pro or an impact-resistant option will place you at the higher end of this range. The best way to get an accurate figure is to use a roofing cost calculator for a preliminary estimate and then schedule a free, no-obligation inspection with our team.
Key Factors That Influence Price
Several key factors can significantly influence the final cost of your roofing project. The overall size of your roof is the most obvious one, but its complexity also plays a major role. Features like chimneys, skylights, and multiple valleys require more time and materials to properly flash and seal, which adds to the cost. The choice of underlayment, ventilation systems, and whether you need to replace the underlying roof decking will also affect the price. Our team will walk you through each of these factors during your estimate to ensure full transparency.
How Roof Slope Affects Cost
The slope, or pitch, of your roof is another critical factor in determining the overall cost. A steeper roof is more difficult and dangerous for crews to work on, requiring additional safety equipment and more time to complete the installation. This increased labor and risk translate to a higher cost. Roofs with a very low slope may also require special underlayment or installation techniques to prevent water intrusion, which can add to the final price. During our inspection, we’ll measure your roof’s slope and explain how it impacts the project’s scope and cost.
Decoding CertainTeed’s Warranty Protections
A strong warranty is a sign that a manufacturer stands behind its product, and CertainTeed offers some of the best protections in the industry. Understanding the warranty is just as important as choosing the right shingle, as it provides long-term peace of mind. The Landmark series comes with a robust, multi-layered warranty that covers manufacturing defects and includes special upfront protection. Knowing the details of this coverage can help you feel confident that your investment is well-protected against unforeseen issues down the road.
Standard Warranty Details
All CertainTeed Landmark shingles come with a lifetime limited transferable warranty for residential properties. This means the shingles are covered against manufacturing defects for as long as you own your home. This warranty provides a solid foundation of protection for your investment. It’s designed to give you confidence in the long-term performance and durability of your new roof, ensuring that the materials will stand the test of time and perform as expected under normal conditions.
SureStart™ Protection Period
What makes CertainTeed’s warranty truly stand out is the SureStart™ protection period. This is a non-prorated period at the beginning of your warranty that covers 100% of material and labor costs to repair or replace defective shingles. For most Landmark shingles, this period lasts for 10 years. This upfront coverage is invaluable because it eliminates any out-of-pocket expenses for you if a manufacturing defect appears early on, providing complete protection when your roof is most vulnerable.
Advanced Coverage: The 5-Star SureStart PLUS Warranty
For the highest level of protection available, you can get the 5-Star SureStart PLUS Warranty. This extended warranty is only available when you work with a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ certified contractor, like us here at Landmark Roofing & Siding. This premium coverage extends the non-prorated period to 50 years and covers the full cost of materials, labor, tear-off, and disposal. It’s the most comprehensive coverage in the industry and ensures your entire roofing system is protected for decades.
Financial Benefits and Consumer Advice
Beyond protecting your home, a new roof can offer some tangible financial benefits and is a smart investment in your property’s value. From potential insurance savings to the peace of mind that comes with a professionally installed, fully warrantied system, the advantages are clear. However, to realize these benefits, it’s crucial to make informed decisions, especially when it comes to choosing your installer. The quality of the installation is just as important as the quality of the shingles themselves.
Potential for Homeowner’s Insurance Discounts
Installing a high-quality, durable roof can sometimes lead to a discount on your homeowner’s insurance premiums. Insurance companies often reward homeowners for taking proactive steps to protect their property from damage. Shingles with a Class 4 impact rating or a Class A fire rating may qualify you for reduced rates because they lower the risk of a costly claim. It’s always a good idea to call your insurance agent after your new roof is installed to see if you are eligible for any discounts.
Why You Need a CertainTeed Certified Contractor
To get the most out of your investment in CertainTeed shingles, you need to hire a contractor who is certified by the manufacturer. Certified installers have been professionally trained on the specific installation requirements for CertainTeed products. This ensures your roof is installed correctly, which is essential for both its long-term performance and the validity of your warranty. An improper installation can void your warranty coverage, leaving you unprotected if a problem arises later on.
The Value of a Select Shingle Master Certification
The highest level of certification from CertainTeed is the SELECT ShingleMaster™ (SSM). This credential is not easy to earn; it requires a company to meet stringent requirements for professionalism, customer satisfaction, and financial stability. As an SSM-certified contractor, Landmark Roofing & Siding can offer the exclusive 5-Star SureStart PLUS Warranty, the most comprehensive coverage available. Choosing an SSM ensures your roof is installed to the highest standards and that you have access to the best possible warranty protection.
Ready to Protect Your Home with Landmark Roofing?
Of course, those are just a couple of reasons it’s important to get maintenance and invest in your home’s roofing. Of course, if you’re interested in learning more about roof replacement or other services, we’d be happy to discuss this further.
At Landmark Roofing and Siding, our mission is to help you achieve your goals of making your home safe and beautiful while providing excellent value. We recognize that you’re making a significant investment in your home when you hire us. We want your investment to pay off, not only by increasing your home’s value but also by increasing your enjoyment of it. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping our customers at every stage of the process to provide the best possible value.
Working as roofing experts for over 15 years in the Puget Sound area, we’re ready to help you find the suitable roofing materials for your project. We offer quality, cost-effective materials to ensure you maximize your roof’s life span. We also vet our craftsmen to ensure you receive a quality installation on time and on budget. If you’re ready to get started, please reach out to us, and we can start talking to you about your residential roofing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my roof needs a full replacement or just a repair? That’s a great question and a common concern for homeowners. Minor issues, like a few missing shingles from a windstorm, can often be repaired. However, if you’re seeing widespread issues like curling or cracking shingles across different areas, persistent leaks, or significant granule loss (the sandy material from your shingles) in your gutters, it often points to a system that’s nearing the end of its life. The best way to know for sure is to have a professional take a look. We can assess the overall condition and give you an honest recommendation.
With all the rain we get, what makes CertainTeed Landmark shingles a good fit for the Puget Sound climate? CertainTeed shingles are engineered specifically to handle wet and challenging climates like ours. Their dual-layered construction provides a durable barrier against constant moisture. Plus, the StreakFighter® technology is a huge benefit here, as it uses copper-infused granules to prevent the growth of the black algae streaks that thrive in our damp environment. This ensures your roof not only protects your home from the rain but also continues to look great for years without staining.
Is upgrading from the standard Landmark to the Landmark Pro shingle worth the extra cost? Deciding between Landmark and Landmark Pro really comes down to your long-term goals. The standard Landmark is an excellent, reliable shingle that offers great protection. The Landmark Pro is a step up in terms of weight and thickness, which translates to enhanced durability and a longer lifespan. It also features more vibrant, dimensional colors. If you plan to be in your home for many years and want a premium look with maximum longevity, the Pro is a fantastic investment.
What’s the main benefit of hiring a SELECT ShingleMaster™ like Landmark Roofing? Hiring a SELECT ShingleMaster™ gives you access to the best warranty protection CertainTeed offers. Only certified contractors at this level can provide the 5-Star SureStart PLUS Warranty. This extends the non-prorated coverage period to 50 years, covering not just materials but also the cost of labor, tear-off, and disposal if a defect occurs. It’s the most comprehensive peace of mind you can get for your roofing system.
Besides the shingles, what other factors affect the final price of a roof replacement? The shingles are a major component, but the total cost also includes several other critical factors. The complexity of your roof’s design, such as its steepness and the number of valleys, chimneys, or skylights, can increase labor time. The condition of the underlying wood decking is another variable; if we discover any rot or damage after removing the old shingles, that decking will need to be replaced. Finally, your choice of underlayment and ventilation system will also influence the final price.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a shingle designed for the Pacific Northwest: The CertainTeed Landmark series is engineered to handle our wet and windy climate, offering multi-layered protection and features like StreakFighter® to combat algae growth.
- A new roof is a smart financial move: Beyond protecting your home, a quality roof replacement increases property value, improves energy efficiency to lower your monthly bills, and can even lead to discounts on your homeowner’s insurance.
- Protect your investment with a certified installer: The performance of your shingles and the validity of your warranty depend on proper installation. Hiring a SELECT ShingleMaster™ is the only way to get CertainTeed’s best 50-year warranty coverage.