Replacing your roof is one of the biggest and most expensive decisions you will make as a homeowner.
In the process of planning, brainstorming, and budgeting for this roofing project, you want to ensure the use of nothing short of quality materials.
With so many brands out there, it's practically your task (or the roofer involved) to maximize your investment. A simple and easy way to achieve this is by selecting one offering longevity, protection, and even enhances curb appeal.
How do you choose the right shingles?
Among the top shingle brands, CertainTeed shingles are often considered a premium option in the roofing world. But…
Is CertainTeed a good shingle brand?
What exactly makes this brand worth considering?
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
CertainTeed is one of the most respected manufacturers in the residential roofing industry. With over a 100 years in the building materials business.
Over time, they have provided homeowners with a wide selection of asphalt shingles commonly used in American homes. Designed to suit different needs and budgets.
But are CertainTeed Shingles good? Many roofing professionals prefer them for their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.
Generally, CertainTeed shingles are of three main categories:
The XT 25 line—these are traditional flat shingles having a simple and uniform appearance.
These are typically the most affordable and were once the industry standard, with an average lifespan of 20-25 years.
Like the Landmark series, dimensional shingles are thicker and layered. It creates a textured look that mimics natural wood or slate.
These are the most popular types today because they offer a balance of durability and aesthetics. Plus, it also often lasts longer than standard shingles, with a lifespan of about 30 years or more.
Grand Manor or Carriage House—these are the high-end products in the popular CertainTeed colors luxury shingles portfolio.
Features intricate designs, superior durability, and a look that closely resembles natural materials like slate or hand-split cedar.
If you are a new homeowner, you may be at a loss for which kind or even the brand of shingles to go for.
As much as competitor brands may have one or two edges over CertainTeed, here are some of the pros that have set them apart in the market:
Is CertainTeed a good shingle? CertainTeed shingles, especially in the Landmark series and up, are noticeably thicker and heavier than many competitors.
For example, shingles from the Landmark line weigh more per square foot than comparable products from GAF or IKO.
The extra weight gives your roof several important advantages:
The heft also means the shingles hold onto their protective granules better over time. Plus, it helps shield your roof from UV rays and provides fire resistance. When granules wear off too soon, the shingles degrade more quickly.
But typically, how long do CertainTeed shingles last on average? It depends on the kind of shingles you go for. Regardless, you can expect an average lifespan of at least 20 years.
Beyond strength, CertainTeed is also recognized for its warranty coverage.
It has a SureStart Protection warranty covering both materials and labor. The initial coverage period is typically for the first 10 years, and you get replacements for defective shingles in addition to the cost of labor and disposal.
The warranty coverage gives CertainTeed a key advantage. While some competitors only cover the cost of new materials and leave labor expenses to the homeowner, CertainTeed’s high-end products may be eligible for a lifetime limited warranty, especially when installed by a certified contractor.
It is important to note that the CertainTeed warranty is generous if you follow the rules. That includes using certified contractors and registering your roof after installation.
Keep all receipts and paperwork as well, especially photos.
Another strength of CertainTeed is its certified contractor network. The company trains its certified contractors on how to install its shingles properly.
They use a feature that shows exactly where nails should go, which helps:
Note:
A beautiful, expensive shingle can still fail if it’s poorly installed. But, hiring someone trained by CertainTeed gives your investment the best chance to last.
Is CertainTeed a good shingle when it comes to aesthetics? Yes, it is!
CertainTeed offers some of the most visually striking shingles on the market. Their Max Def color technology gives their shingles a more vivid, dimensional look than many competitors.
This makes them great if:
The flexibility their color palette gives is especially valuable for homeowners with unique exterior designs or HOA guidelines that emphasize aesthetics.
From a safety standpoint, CertainTeed shingles are built to perform in challenging environments.
All lines meet Class A fire resistance standards, the highest rating available. It helps protect your home in case of nearby fires or sparks.
Once again, is CertainTeed a good shingle? No doubt it is.
However, despite its strengths, CertainTeed has a few drawbacks, particularly when compared to some competing brands.
These cons include:
Although the basic CertainTeed XT 25 shingles are competitively priced, moving up to the dimensional and luxury lines can significantly increase your roofing budget.
For example, the Grand Manor line can cost upwards of $220 to $245 per “square” (a roofing term that refers to 100 square feet of material) before adding labor costs.
If you are not planning to sell soon or trying to renovate on a tight budget, this kind of investment may not be necessary.
Although the coverage is solid, actually filing a claim can be frustrating. It usually requires:
You should discuss with your contractor the handling of warranty registration before installation begins.
The same thickness that makes CertainTeed shingles strong also means they may be harder to install.
Heavier shingles, in some cases, such as older homes, may require roof decking reinforcements to support the extra weight.
These extra projects further increase costs, including labor costs.
After assessing numerous customer CertainTeed shingles reviews and comparing them to other leading brands like GAF and IKO, CertainTeed tends to win in terms of durability and aesthetic quality.
However, GAF may offer better value if you are looking for solid performance at a lower price point. Their warranty system is also often seen as simpler to work with.
IKO is frequently chosen for budget-friendly projects. Although it offers decent aesthetics, it does not match CertainTeed in terms of thickness or warranty scope.
So, is CertainTeed a good shingle? Well, it's a smart choice if you want your home to look fantastic, stand out, and stay for the long haul.
However, you may want to consider other options if you are flipping or selling your house soon. When working with a tight budget, consider exploring other brands.
If you prefer a straightforward, hands-off warranty process, CertainTeed, sadly, may not be the best choice.
