CertainTeed Landmark vs Landmark Pro — Real-World Roofing Shingle Comparison (Vancouver)
Vancouver roofs don’t fail like roofs in dry climates. Long wet seasons, shaded slopes, moss pressure, and wind-driven rain turn “small differences” into big outcomes over time. This page keeps the roofer-first lens: what holds up, what causes callbacks, and how to choose for your roof’s micro-climate.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why Landmark and Landmark Pro Are Often Compared
- What’s Actually Different Between Landmark and Landmark Pro
- Performance in Real Vancouver Conditions
- Installation & Field Observations
- Warranty & Real-World Expectations
- Cost vs Value Over Time
- Which One Is Right for Your Vancouver Roof
- A Quick Decision Matrix
- Inspection Checklist Before You Choose
- FAQs
- Recommended Links
Key Takeaways
| What matters in Vancouver | Edge stability, granule retention in chronic wet zones, and long-term behavior on shaded slopes matter more than “brochure numbers.” |
|---|---|
| Landmark vs Pro in plain terms | Landmark is already a strong, proven architectural shingle. Landmark Pro generally adds density/adhesion and gives more margin before chronic wet-zone wear shows up. |
| Where Pro tends to earn its keep | Wind-exposed ridges, north-facing shaded slopes, complex roofs with many details, and homeowners prioritizing long-term appearance stability. |
| What beats brand choice | Detailing and sequencing: valleys, flashings, penetrations, edge metal, and ventilation decide whether a roof is boring (good) or a callback machine. |
| Best way to choose | Make the decision based on your micro-climate: pitch, orientation, tree cover, and drainage behavior—not generic advice. |
Why Landmark and Landmark Pro Are Often Compared
This is one of the most common “upgrade questions” I get from Vancouver homeowners once they’ve already narrowed their choice to CertainTeed. The roof is being replaced, the contractor recommends Landmark, and then the homeowner sees Landmark Pro on the quote and asks the obvious question:
> “Is the Pro actually better — or is it just a marketing upgrade?”
That’s a fair question. And in Vancouver, it matters more than it would in a dry, predictable climate.
This comparison is written from a roofer’s perspective, based on what we see installed, repaired, and inspected years later — not what looks good on a brochure. Vancouver roofs fail differently. Wind-driven rain, moss-heavy valleys, long wet seasons, and shaded slopes expose weaknesses quickly. So the real differences between Landmark and Landmark Pro show up over time, not on day one.
What’s Actually Different Between Landmark and Landmark Pro
Landmark — The Baseline Architectural Shingle
Landmark is CertainTeed’s flagship architectural (laminated) shingle. It’s widely installed across Canada and has a solid reputation when installed correctly.
From a roofer’s perspective, Landmark is defined by:
- A traditional laminated asphalt construction
- Consistent manufacturing and predictable installation
- A wide range of color options that suit Vancouver home styles
- Good all-around performance when paired with proper underlayment and flashing
Landmark is not a lightweight shingle, but it’s also not the heaviest in its class. It sits in that middle ground where it performs well on most homes without being overbuilt.
Visually, Landmark offers:
- Clean shadow lines
- A dimensional look that works well on craftsman, traditional, and modern homes
- Colors that don’t look overly glossy or artificial
For many Vancouver homes, Landmark is already a substantial upgrade from builder-grade or older 3-tab shingles.
Landmark Pro — What’s Actually Enhanced
Landmark Pro isn’t a completely different shingle, but it does incorporate upgrades that affect long-term behavior.
What changes with Landmark Pro typically include:
- A heavier mat or enhanced base construction
- Improved granule adhesion
- Higher impact resistance ratings (in applicable regions)
- Slightly enhanced wind resistance
- More pronounced color blends and shadow definition
From the roof deck, Landmark Pro feels more substantial. It has a stiffer, denser presence once installed, especially noticeable at edges, ridges, and hips.
Visually, homeowners often notice:
- Deeper color saturation
- Slightly sharper edge definition
- A more “finished” look on high-visibility roofs
The key distinction isn’t appearance, though — it’s how the shingle behaves after years of exposure.
Physical Build Differences That Matter in Vancouver
On Vancouver roofs, we care less about hail ratings and more about:
- How shingles hold their shape when wet for months
- How granules stay embedded under constant rain
- How edges behave in wind tunnels created by roof geometry
Landmark Pro’s added density and adhesion give it more resistance to subtle deformation, which matters on:
- North-facing slopes
- Roofs under tree cover
- Valleys that stay damp
Standard Landmark performs well — Landmark Pro just has more margin before wear shows up.
Performance in Real Vancouver Conditions
Wind Resistance — Ratings vs What Roofers Actually See
Both Landmark and Landmark Pro are rated for strong wind resistance when installed per manufacturer requirements. But ratings don’t tell the whole story.
Standard Landmark in the field:
- Performs well on most suburban Vancouver homes
- Handles wind adequately when nailed correctly
- Can show earlier edge lift in highly exposed areas over time
Landmark Pro in the field:
- Holds edges flatter under repeated gust loading
- Maintains seal integrity slightly better at ridges and hips
- Performs more consistently on exposed elevations and coastal-influenced areas
On sheltered homes, the difference may never matter. On homes near ridgelines, open corridors, or coastal wind paths, Landmark Pro gives extra insurance.
Rain Performance & Heavy Water Loads
Rain alone doesn’t cause shingle failure — trapped moisture does.
Both shingles shed water effectively when new. The difference appears over years of exposure:
- Landmark drains well but may show earlier cosmetic wear in constantly wet zones
- Landmark Pro resists saturation-related fatigue slightly better
This is most noticeable:
- In valleys
- At lower roof edges
- Where debris slows drainage
Neither shingle “leaks” on its own — but Pro maintains its profile longer in chronic wet zones.
Granule Retention & UV Resistance
Granule loss is one of the first visible signs of aging on Vancouver roofs.
From inspections:
- Standard Landmark retains granules well, but loss accelerates in shaded, damp zones
- Landmark Pro tends to hold granules longer in those same conditions
UV exposure in Vancouver is less intense than interior regions, but constant moisture weakens granule adhesion over time. Pro’s enhanced bonding helps delay that process.
South-facing slopes may age similarly on both products. North-facing slopes are where differences show first.
Moss & Algae Performance
Neither shingle is “moss-proof.” Anyone promising that in Vancouver is overselling.
That said:
- Both Landmark and Landmark Pro include algae-resistant granules
- Landmark Pro tends to resist moss establishment slightly longer
- Maintenance is still required on shaded roofs
Pro doesn’t eliminate moss — it just slows the cosmetic and structural impact.
Performance Around Valleys, Flashings & Penetrations
This is where roofers really evaluate shingles.
- Landmark conforms well but can soften over long wet cycles
- Landmark Pro resists edge distortion better around metal transitions
On complex roofs with many penetrations and valleys, Pro provides more stability around high-stress details — especially when combined with proper ice & water protection.
Installation & Field Observations
Ease of Installation
Both products are installer-friendly.
Landmark:
- Easy to align
- Forgiving on slightly uneven decking
- Lays flat quickly
Landmark Pro:
- Slightly stiffer, more deliberate placement
- Feels more “locked in” once seated
- Benefits from precise alignment
Neither is difficult to install, but Pro rewards disciplined workmanship more.
Nailing Tolerance & Forgiveness
Standard Landmark has slightly more forgiveness if nail placement varies within the zone. Landmark Pro prefers accuracy — not because it’s fragile, but because it’s denser.
This matters most with:
- Complex roof geometry
- Valleys and hips
- Steep slopes
A skilled crew will have no issue with either.
Installer Preferences & Trends
Among experienced Vancouver crews:
- Landmark is often chosen for value-driven projects
- Landmark Pro is selected intentionally for exposure-heavy roofs
Crews don’t choose Pro because it’s “fancier” — they choose it when conditions justify the upgrade.
Installation Still Matters More Than Pro vs Standard
This cannot be overstated.
A perfectly installed Landmark roof will outperform a poorly installed Landmark Pro roof every time. Flashing, ventilation, underlayment, and detailing have a greater impact on performance than the Pro label alone.
Warranty & Real-World Expectations
On paper, warranties are similar. In practice:
- Most failures are installation- or ventilation-related
- Claims are rarely straightforward
- Labour coverage is limited
What matters is reducing the likelihood of failure, not relying on warranty resolution.
Landmark Pro’s enhanced construction lowers the chance of stress-related issues that can complicate claims — especially edge-related problems.
Cost vs Value Over Time
Material Price Comparison
Typically:
- Landmark Pro costs more per square than Landmark
- The difference varies by supplier and availability
On larger or complex roofs, the percentage difference shrinks relative to labour cost.
Installed Cost Considerations
Installed cost depends far more on:
- Roof complexity
- Tear-off requirements
- Decking condition
- Detailing scope
On simple roofs, Landmark Pro may feel like a bigger upgrade cost. On complex roofs, it’s often a smaller percentage of the total project.
Value Over Time
Over 20–30 years:
- Landmark offers strong value for most homes
- Landmark Pro offers added durability and reduced cosmetic aging
Pro tends to:
- Maintain appearance longer
- Require fewer early touch-ups
- Hold up better in exposed zones
Which One Is Right for Your Vancouver Roof
When Landmark Is a Strong Choice
Landmark makes sense when:
- The home is moderately sheltered
- Budget matters but quality is still important
- Roof geometry is straightforward
- Exposure is average
For many Vancouver homes, Landmark already exceeds functional needs.
When Landmark Pro Makes Sense
Landmark Pro is worth considering when:
- The roof is wind-exposed
- The home sits on a ridge or open corridor
- Long-term ownership is planned
- Aesthetic longevity matters
- The roof has complex geometry
It’s not about status — it’s about risk reduction.
Pitch, Exposure & Neighborhood Matter
A south-facing roof in a protected subdivision behaves very differently than a north-facing roof near open space or water. Choosing between Landmark and Landmark Pro should be based on your roof’s micro-climate, not generic advice.
Final Roofer’s Perspective
Here’s the honest takeaway:
- Landmark is a solid, proven architectural shingle that performs well on most Vancouver homes
- Landmark Pro adds durability, edge stability, and long-term appearance retention where conditions are tougher
Neither choice is wrong. The mistake is choosing without understanding how your roof handles wind, rain, shade, and movement.
A proper inspection — looking at pitch, exposure, drainage, decking, and ventilation — will tell you far more than any spec sheet ever will.
That’s how roofers decide.
A Quick Decision Matrix
If you want a fast, practical way to decide without turning it into an internet rabbit hole, use this as a Vancouver-first filter. You’re not picking “the better shingle.” You’re picking the better risk profile for your roof.
| Roof condition / exposure | Landmark tends to fit when… | Landmark Pro tends to fit when… |
|---|---|---|
| Moderately sheltered, standard pitch
Typical Vancouver subdivision, decent airflow |
Most real-world needs are covered and performance is strong if details are done correctly. | Upgrade is optional—usually chosen for long-term appearance goals rather than necessity. |
| North-facing / shaded for months
Tree cover, slower dry-out, moss pressure |
Works well, but chronic wet-zone wear can show sooner without maintenance. | Extra margin before chronic wet-zone deformation/granule wear becomes visible. |
| Wind-exposed ridges & edges
Open corridors, higher gust loading |
Performs well with perfect nailing and strong edge detailing—less forgiveness. | Better long-term edge stability and seal integrity under repeated gust cycles. |
| Complex geometry
Many hips/valleys/penetrations |
Strong option—just ensure the “details budget” is there (valleys/flashings/edges). | Often worth it because complexity multiplies stress zones and future repair risk. |
| Long-term ownership focus
You care about 15–25+ year outcomes |
Excellent value if maintenance is realistic and the roof is not highly exposed. | Leans toward “buying down risk” and extending the time before wet-zone aging shows. |
Inspection Checklist Before You Choose
If someone is choosing Landmark vs Landmark Pro without checking these, they’re guessing. And in Vancouver, guessing is how you end up with “mysterious leaks” that are really drainage and detailing issues.
Before selecting shingles, confirm:
- Orientation: Which planes are north-facing and shaded most of the year?
- Debris behavior: Where do needles/leaves collect (especially valleys and behind chimneys)?
- Dry-out windows: Does the roof actually dry between rain events, or stay damp for weeks?
- Valleys: Open vs closed details, membrane width, and fastener placement away from active water paths.
- Penetrations: Age of boots/flashings and whether they’re replaced as standard practice.
- Edge metal & gutters: Drip edge length, fascia condition, and whether water dumps behind gutters.
- Ventilation: Intake/exhaust balance and whether moisture is accumulating in the attic.
- Decking condition: Soft spots, swelling OSB edges, and fastener holding strength.
Common Vancouver Mistakes That Make Any Shingle Look “Bad”
This is where homeowners get misled: they upgrade shingles, but the leak risk remains because the system details weren’t treated as high-risk water zones. When those zones fail, it doesn’t matter what logo is on the bundle.
| Mistake | What it causes | What to do instead |
|---|---|---|
| Minimal valley membrane | Back-up pressure and seep paths that show up far from the valley. | Treat valleys as high-risk zones with proper membrane coverage and fastener discipline. |
| Reusing old flashings/boots | New roof, old failure points—leaks show up early and feel “mysterious.” | Replace aging penetrations and flashings as standard practice during reroofing. |
| Edge metal treated as trim | Fascia rot, water behind gutters, soffit staining, wall cavity moisture. | Design drip edge/gutter integration so water exits cleanly into the gutter at speed. |
| Over-reliance on caulking | Temporary success, long-term failure—UV and moisture cycles break sealants down. | Layering and sequencing: structure → membrane → flashing → roofing. |
| Ventilation ignored | Moisture accumulation, deck swelling, shortened shingle life, and poor drying behavior. | Confirm balanced intake/exhaust and address attic moisture sources before reroofing. |
FAQs
Will Landmark Pro automatically last longer than Landmark in Vancouver?
Not automatically. Pro typically gives more margin in chronic wet zones and exposed edges, but long-term outcomes still depend on drainage details, membrane strategy, ventilation, and workmanship.
If my roof is shaded and moss-prone, does Pro solve that?
No shingle is moss-proof in Vancouver. Pro may slow cosmetic impacts, but moss pressure is mainly controlled by drainage behavior, debris management, ventilation, and maintenance.
Is the upgrade worth it on a simple, sheltered roof?
Often, standard Landmark is enough. If you want the best ROI, spend the upgrade budget on system details first: valleys, penetrations, flashings, and edge metal integration.
Where do shingles “fail” first in Vancouver?
Usually not in the middle of a slope. Failures show up at details: valleys, penetrations, wall transitions, edges, and anywhere debris slows drainage and keeps materials damp.
What’s the single best way to make either product perform better here?
Build the roof like a water system: prioritize membranes in high-risk zones, keep fasteners out of active water paths, integrate edge metal correctly, and verify ventilation and dry-out behavior.
Recommended Links
If you want the Landmark vs Pro decision to be easy, anchor it to your roof’s actual exposure, drainage behavior, and detail complexity—then pick the shingle that matches that reality.
