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Home»Blog»Owens Corning Duration vs CertainTeed Landmark Pro | Which Shingle is Better?
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Owens Corning Duration vs CertainTeed Landmark Pro | Which Shingle is Better?

Rich PrueBy Rich PrueOctober 2, 202529 Mins Read
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Introduction
When it comes to replacing your roof, Owens Corning’s TruDefinition® Duration shingles and CertainTeed’s Landmark® Pro shingles are two heavyweight contenders in the asphalt roofing world. Both are architectural (dimensional) shingles with lifetime warranties, designed to mimic the rich look of wood shakes while protecting homes in all kinds of climates. In this guide, we’ll compare Duration and Landmark Pro in detail- from their construction features (like nailing strip design) to performance in extreme weather, warranty coverage, pricing, and what real contractors and homeowners have to say. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking the best roof for your climate or a roofing contractor weighing product options, read on for a side-by-side comparison of these popular shingles.

Overview of the Shingle Lines

Owens Corning TruDefinition® Duration – Owens Corning’s Duration series is a best-selling laminated architectural shingle known for its patented SureNail® Technology and vibrant TruDefinition color blends. It’s a mid-range heavyweight in the Owens Corning lineup (above the Oakridge® series), offering a Limited Lifetime warranty and an enhanced 130 MPH wind performance. Duration shingles are available in an array of colors (including an Designer Color Collection) to boost curb appeal. Owens Corning, a U.S.-based company famed for its pink insulation, has engineered the Duration line for broad appeal: durability, rich aesthetics, and an installer-friendly design.

CertainTeed Landmark® Pro – The Landmark Pro is an “enhanced” architectural shingle built upon CertainTeed’s popular Landmark series. It features a thicker, heavier design with a richer Max Def color palette for added dimensionality. Landmark Pro carries a Lifetime Limited warranty and is rated for excellent weather protection. CertainTeed (a division of Saint-Gobain) is known for premium building products, and Landmark Pro sits in their upper-mid tier – often touted by contractors for its robust dual-layer construction and long-term performance. It’s available in many regional colors and even a solar-reflective “Landmark Pro Solaris” version for hot climates.

Both Duration and Landmark Pro are dual-layer laminated asphalt shingles with fiberglass mats, asphalt sealant strips, and ceramic-coated granules. The table below summarizes key features and specs side-by-side:

Feature Owens Corning Duration CertainTeed Landmark Pro
Nailing Zone Design SureNail® reinforced nailing strip – a woven fabric strip embedded on the shingle for a highly visible, “no guess” nailing target and triple-layer fastening strength. This gives outstanding grip and allows 130 MPH wind rating with just 4 nails. NailTrak® wide nailing area – an expanded nailing zone (about 3× wider than standard) printed on the shingle for faster, more accurate installs. Sealant is placed lower on the shingle to avoid fouling nail guns. (No fabric strip reinforcement in Landmark Pro.)
Wind Resistance 130 MPH wind warranty with standard installation (achieved even with 4 nails, thanks to SureNail and strong Tru-Bond® sealant). Meets Class F wind ratings. 15-year wind coverage term under warranty is common. 110 MPH wind warranty standard (15-year coverage), 130 MPH available with a high-wind installation upgrade (requires CertainTeed starter shingles, hip/ridge caps, and 6 nails per shingle). Also meets Class F/Class H wind test standards when upgraded.
Algae Protection StreakGuard® Algae Resistance – includes copper-containing granules to prevent roof algae. Comes with a 25-year Algae Resistance Limited Warranty (recently expanded from 10 years) when you use at least one Owens Corning algae-resistant ridge cap on the roof. (If a non-OC ridge is used, algae warranty may revert to 10 years.) This helps roofs stay free of ugly black streaks. StreakFighter® Algae Resistance – copper-lined granules for algae protection. 15-year algae-stain warranty is standard for Landmark Pro. This can be extended up to 30 years when installing CertainTeed’s algae-resistant hip & ridge accessories with the shingles. Ideal for humid or shaded regions where algae growth is common.
Impact Rating (Hail) Class 3 impact resistance (UL 2218) for standard Duration. Owens Corning offers impact-resistant versions – Duration STORM and Duration FLEX – which achieve Class 4 (highest rating) by adding polymer reinforcement. Standard Duration can resist typical hail, but Class 4 variants are recommended in hail-prone regions. Class 3 impact resistance for Landmark Pro (as of 2022 production). CertainTeed’s Landmark ClimateFlex (polymer-modified shingle, formerly Landmark IR) is available for Class 4 impact rating. In general, Landmark Pro handles most storms well; the optional ClimateFlex upgrade is suited for frequent large-hail areas.
Weight & Thickness Approx. 200 lbs per square (100 sq.ft) – a mid-weight architectural shingle. Owens Corning lists Duration at ~260 lbs/sq in some marketing, but independent tests show the actual installed weight is closer to 188–200 lbs/sq. The thickness is sufficient for durability, but slightly less mass than Landmark Pro. Approx. 250 lbs per square– Landmark Pro is notably heavier and thicker, with extra asphalt “weathering” layer compared to the regular Landmark line. This added weight contributes to durability and a more pronounced dimensional look. (CertainTeed’s published weight range ~229–240 lbs for Landmark; Pro is on the high end, often exceeding 250 lbs.)
Fire Rating Class A (highest fire resistance rating) for the shingle assembly. Suitable for wildfire-prone areas when used with proper underlayment. Class A fire rated (highest), meeting building code requirements for fire resistance. Both shingles use fiberglass mats that achieve the top fire rating.
Color Options TruDefinition® color blends – ~15 standard colors nationwide, from classic neutrals (Estate Gray, Onyx Black, etc.) to bold Designer hues. The shingle has a variegated look with shadow lines for depth. Owens Corning even names an annual “Shingle Color of the Year,” reflecting their style focus. Cool roof colors (Duration Cool) available in some regions for energy efficiency. Max Def color palette – roughly a dozen or more colors, depending on region. Max Def colors use finer mineral pigments for a richer, high-definition appearance. Landmark Pro’s colors often appear brighter or more dimensional than standard Landmark. CertainTeed also offers a Landmark Pro Solaris line with ENERGY STAR® rated granules for high reflectance in hot climates.
Warranty Coverage Limited Lifetime warranty for the original homeowner (covers manufacturing defects). Includes 10-year TruPROtection® period (non-prorated material & labor coverage). Wind damage is covered up to 130 MPH for the first 15 years (with proper installation). Algae warranty is 10 years standard, or 25 years with OC algae-resistant accessories. Warranty is typically transferable once (to a subsequent owner within a specified time). Owens Corning also offers extended warranties (System Protection, Preferred Protection, Platinum Protection) when installed by certified contractors, which can lengthen the non-prorated period up to 50 years and even cover workmanship. Limited Lifetime warranty for original owner. Comes with 10-year SureStart™ protection (100% coverage on materials & labor). Wind warranty: 110 MPH (15 years standard) or 130 MPH with CertainTeed’s high-wind installation (still ~15-year term). Algae: 15-year StreakFighter warranty (extendable to 30-year with accessory usage). Warranty is transferable (usually within the first 10 years). CertainTeed’s credentialed contractors can offer SureStart™ PLUS extended warranties (3-star, 4-star, 5-star levels) that can provide up to 50 years of full coverage and include tear-off and workmanship in higher tiers.

(Sources: Product data and warranties from Owens Corning and CertainTeed.)

As the table shows, each shingle has its strong points. Next, we’ll break down what these features mean for real-world performance and consider how each product fares in different environments.

Performance in Different Climates and Conditions

One important consideration when choosing shingles is how well they perform in your specific climate or region. Here’s how Owens Corning Duration and CertainTeed Landmark Pro stack up in various conditions:

  • High Winds / Hurricane-Prone Areas: Both Duration and Landmark Pro are engineered for strong wind uplift resistance. If you live in a hurricane zone (e.g. coastal Southeast, Gulf Coast), you’ll appreciate that both can be warrantied up to 130 mph wind speeds with proper installation. Owens Corning’s SureNail strip provides excellent nail pull-through resistance – in fact, the Duration shingle can achieve its 130 MPH rating with just 4 nails per shingle, whereas most competitors (like Landmark Pro) require 6 nails and additional accessories for the highest wind coverage. In practice, both shingles have proven to hold up in severe storms when installed correctly. Always ensure your installer follows the manufacturer’s high-wind nailing pattern and uses the recommended starter strips and hip/ridge caps for maximum wind warranty. (In Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zones, both products meet Miami-Dade standards when six-nailed and installed over a solid deck, per product approvals.)

  • Heavy Rains / Moisture: Both shingles overlap to form a reliable water-shedding roof, provided proper underlayment and flashing are in place. Neither Duration nor Landmark Pro has a specific advantage in normal heavy rain – both use aggressive asphalt sealant strips that bond shingles together to resist wind-driven rain. It’s worth noting Owens Corning’s sealant (Tru-Bond®) is designed to firmly tack to the SureNail strip on the shingle below, creating a tight seal. CertainTeed shingles are known for their strong self-seal as well, and their heavier weight may help them lay flat and secure against the deck. In regions with torrential rain or hurricanes, correct installation (flush nailing, proper attic ventilation, etc.) is key, and both brands perform well when those best practices are followed.

  • Hot & Humid Climates: In warm, humid areas (Southeast U.S., Gulf Coast, etc.), algae growth and heat are concerns. Both Duration and Landmark Pro come with built-in algae resistance to fight the black streaks caused by blue-green algae. CertainTeed’s Landmark Pro has a slight edge in base algae warranty (15 years vs. 10 years for standard Duration), but Owens Corning increased theirs to 25 years when using their algae-resistant system- effectively leveling the field. If your home is under trees or in a very damp climate, either shingle will help resist streaking; just be sure to have the algae warranty conditions met (use the matching ridge caps, etc., as required). As for extreme heat and sun, both products are rated Class A for fire (important in hot, dry areas with wildfire risk) and offer UV-protected granules. CertainTeed’s optional Solaris cool-roof versions of Landmark Pro can reflect more sunlight to keep attic temperatures down, and Owens Corning offers Duration Cool shades in some markets – so in places like the Southwest or Deep South, ask your contractor about those energy-efficient shingle options. Overall, both shingles have performed well in hot climates; however, polymer-modified versions (OC Duration Flex and CT Landmark ClimateFlex) are available if thermal durability is a top concern, as they remain flexible and resist thermal cracking even in temperature extremes.

  • Cold & Snowy Climates: In northern regions with harsh winters, shingles face challenges like freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams, and subzero installations. Landmark Pro’s heavier weight could be an advantage under heavy snow loads or high winds that accompany winter storms – the extra asphalt adds heft and tear resistance. Both Landmark Pro and Duration are rated for Class A fire, which also means they can tolerate some chimney or windblown sparks in winter. If installation must happen in cold weather, standard asphalt shingles can be more brittle; in such cases, the rubberized ClimateFlex variant of Landmark Pro or Duration Flex (which uses SBS polymer) remain pliable in the cold and might be preferable. Once installed, though, both standard Duration and Landmark Pro should withstand winter conditions similarly – just ensure your attic is well-insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams. Some contractors note that CertainTeed’s shingles, being thicker, may be slightly less prone to blow-offs in sudden winter gusts if the sealant hasn’t fully set, but both brands require the sun’s warmth to seal properly. If a roof is installed in late fall, the adhesive strips might not fully bond until spring; your roofer may hand-seal tabs as needed in cold installs. In summary, both shingles protect many homes through brutal winters – just consider upgraded impact-resistant versions if hail or ice impact is a big worry, and follow winter installation guidelines.

  • Hail-Prone Areas: In regions like the Great Plains or Midwest where hailstorms are frequent, shingle impact resistance is critical. Standard Owens Corning Duration and CertainTeed Landmark Pro are Class 3 impact rated, meaning they can withstand a 1 ¾″ steel ball dropped from 20 feet without cracking. For many moderate hail events, this is sufficient. However, for the best hail protection (golfball-sized hail and larger), you’d want Class 4. CertainTeed offers Landmark IR (ClimateFlex) as a Class 4 shingle, and Owens Corning has Duration STORM/Flex Class 4 shingles. Those modified shingles use rubberized asphalt or a reinforcing polymer mesh to absorb hail hits without damage. If you stick with the standard products, know that both Duration and Landmark Pro have shown good performance in independent hail tests relative to non-IR shingles. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) conducted impact testing in recent years: CertainTeed’s polymer-modified shingles were top-rated, but even their non-modified Landmark line slightly outperformed some competitors in resisting cracks and dents. Owens Corning’s Duration (non-STORM) performed decently but not at the very top in those tests – some contractors have observed granule loss lines on OC shingles when bent or hit, whereas Landmark’s dense mat holds granules a bit better. The takeaway: for occasional small hail, both shingles will survive fine; for regular big hail, upgrade to the Class 4 version and possibly earn an insurance discount.

Warranty Coverage and Conditions

Both Owens Corning and CertainTeed back their premium shingles with lifetime limited warranties, but the details have some differences. Here’s an outline of warranty coverage and what you should pay attention to:

  • Manufacturing Defects Coverage: Duration and Landmark Pro carry a Limited Lifetime warranty against factory defects for as long as you own your home. (“Lifetime” is defined as 50 years in many warranty terms.) This base warranty is similar for both brands. If the shingle fails due to a material defect, the manufacturer will provide replacement shingles (and sometimes labor) per the warranty terms.

  • Non-Prorated Period (Full Coverage): Both have an initial period where the warranty is 100% non-prorated, meaning the manufacturer covers full material and labor cost for repairs/replacement. Owens Corning calls this the TruPROtection® period and it lasts 10 years on Duration. CertainTeed calls it SureStart™ and it’s also 10 years for Landmark Pro. During this window, if a defect is found, you get full value; after that, the compensation proration gradually drops off as the roof ages. (For example, at year 11, you might get a percentage of costs covered.) Note that extended warranties (discussed below) can extend this non-prorated period significantly.

  • Wind Damage Warranty: Asphalt shingle warranties also cover wind blow-off up to a certain speed. Both Duration and Landmark Pro will cover wind-related repairs if shingles strip off in winds up to 110 mph (Standard coverage) or 130 mph (Enhanced coverage) for a set time. Typically, the wind warranty is 15 years for both. The conditions are crucial: to get the 130 mph coverage on Landmark Pro, you must use 6 nails per shingle and CertainTeed starter shingles and ridge cap shingles as per their instructions. Owens Corning’s 130 mph coverage requires 4 (or 6) nails and their starter strip, etc., per instructions – notably, OC’s SureNail design makes the 130 mph rating achievable without extra nails beyond the standard nailing, which is a plus. Always have your contractor follow the manufacturer’s high-wind installation spec; otherwise, wind warranty may default to a lower limit (e.g. 110 mph). Also, if your area has code requirements, meet those to ensure warranty validity.

  • Algae Discoloration Warranty: Both warranties cover algae-caused discoloration for a limited time. Owens Corning now offers 25 years of algae-stain coverage on Duration shingles if you use a qualifying OC ridge cap shingle that also has StreakGuard algae protection. Without the OC hip/ridge accessory, the Duration algae warranty reverts to 10 years. CertainTeed’s Landmark Pro comes with a 15-year algae warranty out of the box, and if you use CertainTeed’s matching algae-resistant ridge caps, they extend it up to 30 years. In either case, these warranties will typically pay to clean or replace shingles that develop those dark algae streaks within the covered period. Homeowners in algae-prone areas (e.g. the Southeast) should ensure their contractor installs the full algae-resistant system to maximize this coverage.

  • Transferability: Both warranties are transferable to a new owner if you sell your home, which is a great selling point. The catch: it usually can only be transferred once, and must be done within a certain time (often within the first 10 or 15 years of installation) to retain full coverage. For instance, CertainTeed allows transfer within the first 10 years at no charge (later transfers may reduce coverage). Owens Corning’s warranty is also one-time transferable; the new owner gets the remaining warranty term, but must notify OC in writing within 60 days of ownership change (per OC’s warranty docs). Always check the specific warranty document for transfer steps – failing to properly transfer can void the warranty for the new owner.

  • Workmanship / Installation Coverage: The standard manufacturer warranties (from both OC and CT) do not cover installer workmanship errors. That means if your roofer does something wrong (improper nailing, flashing mistakes, etc.), and the shingles fail due to that, the shingle warranty won’t pay. This is why it’s important to choose a reputable, certified contractor. Both companies, however, offer extended warranties that can cover workmanship for a period when the roof is installed by their certified contractors. For example, CertainTeed’s SureStart PLUS 5-Star warranty (available through SELECT ShingleMaster contractors) can include up to 25 years of workmanship coverage by CertainTeed. Owens Corning’s Platinum Protection warranty (through their Platinum Preferred contractors) similarly can cover workmanship for lifetime (as long as you own the home). These enhanced warranties also extend the non-prorated period (often to 50 years) and cover tear-off and disposal costs – essentially providing long-term “bumper to bumper” protection. However, they do come at an extra cost (some contractors bundle it in their quote). If you want maximum peace of mind, consider investing in one of these upgraded warranty plans, but only get it from a top-tier certified contractor. If not, at least ensure your contractor gives their own workmanship warranty (many roofers offer 5- to 10-year labor guarantees).

  • Exclusions and Maintenance: Both OC and CT warranties will have similar exclusions: damage from improper installation, foot traffic, debris impact, acts of God beyond wind rating (tornadoes), etc., are not covered. Neglect (like not fixing an obvious leak or having a roof over already damaged decking) can also void coverage. To keep your warranty valid, follow care guidelines – e.g. do not pressure wash the shingles, don’t install antennas or solar panels through shingles without proper flashing, keep gutters clean, and ventilate the attic. Also, register your warranty if required (Owens Corning asks homeowners to register on their website, though it’s not mandatory for coverage). Keep documentation of your purchase and installation as well.

In short, read the warranty! Both brands offer robust protection on paper, but in reality, warranty claims can be contentious if installation wasn’t perfect. An insightful note from a remodeling cost guide: “most claims are denied – unless the defect is obvious, manufacturers often blame installation or ventilation issues”. So, the quality of installation is as important as the shingle brand for avoiding problems down the road. This leads to our next point: what do contractors and homeowners say about installing and living with these shingles?

Pricing and Value

For many homeowners, budget is a big factor. How do Owens Corning Duration and CertainTeed Landmark Pro compare in cost? The good news is that as mid-to-premium architectural shingles, their price points are in a similar ballpark. Any difference in cost often comes down to your local market and the specific contractor’s pricing or promotions. Here are some general insights on pricing:

  • Material Costs: On average, Owens Corning Duration shingles typically run around $95–$135 per “square” (100 square feet of shingles) in material cost, while CertainTeed Landmark (Pro) might be about $100–$135 per square. In other words, their list prices overlap, with Owens Corning sometimes a hair cheaper at the low end and both equal on the high end. One roofing company’s comparison noted: “Owens Corning: $95–$135/sq; CertainTeed Landmark: $100–$135/sq”. These figures are for materials only and can vary with color choice (specialty or “Designer” colors can cost more), region, and supplier. Heavier shingles like Landmark Pro might cost slightly more to produce, but CertainTeed’s pricing strategy also targets the premium segment, so you may see a small uptick for Landmark Pro versus base Landmark.

  • Installed Cost: The installed price includes materials, labor, tear-off, permits, disposal, overhead, and contractor profit. Nationally, architectural shingles like these average $450–$700 per square installed, though it can be outside this range depending on your roof complexity and region. For example, if we consider a typical roof (~20 squares), a Landmark Pro roof might come in around $9,000–$14,000, and Duration around $8,500–$13,500, installed. Real-life quotes often vary: one homeowner got bids of $25,000 for OC Duration vs $14,500 for CT Landmark (not Pro) for the same roof, which is a huge difference- that disparity was likely due to different contractors or project specifics, not just shingle cost. In another case, a homeowner in the Northeast had quotes of $9,700 for Duration vs $9,900 for Landmark Pro (nearly identical) for a ~12 square roof. The key point: labor and company overhead can outweigh the slight material cost differences. Landmark Pro’s extra 20–50 lbs per square might add a few dollars more in material and slightly more labor to carry to the roof, but it’s marginal.

  • Warranty Upgrade Costs: If you choose to go with an upgraded warranty (SureStart Plus or OC System/Platinum), contractors usually charge for that – either a flat fee or an increased per-square rate. Some contractors include a mid-tier extended warranty in their price. Remember that to get those, you must use more of the manufacturer’s accessories (like underlayment, ice/water shield, ridge vents, etc. from the same brand). This system approach can add a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars to the cost, but you are also getting higher-quality underlayments or ridge vents in the deal. It’s something to factor in when comparing quotes: one quote might be cheaper but using generic felt and vents, vs. another slightly pricier quote that uses, say, Owens Corning Total Protection system components. Be sure to ask for an apples-to-apples breakdown of materials when comparing bids.

  • Value and ROI: Both Landmark Pro and Duration are considered high-value shingles – they’re not the cheapest upfront, but they offer excellent durability and curb appeal for the price. According to some remodeler analyses, a new architectural shingle roof can have a ROI of ~60–70% on resale value, and having a well-known brand with a transferrable warranty (like OC or CertainTeed) may be a selling perk. If CertainTeed Landmark Pro costs a bit more, you might be paying for the heavier material and possibly a longer algae warranty – which in a hot, wet climate could be worth it. Owens Corning Duration, slightly more budget-friendly, still gives premium looks and wind performance, which is a great value especially if your climate is wind-prone. In short, neither choice is “cheap”; expect to pay a premium vs. entry-level 3-tab shingles or bargain brands. But both should deliver long-term value in longevity and protection, making them cost-effective over decades.

  • Pricing Tip: Get multiple quotes from reputable contractors who are familiar with each brand. Sometimes contractors have brand loyalty or certifications that let them offer better deals. For instance, an Owens Corning Platinum contractor might offer a strong warranty package at a competitive rate, whereas a CertainTeed ShingleMaster might have pricing advantages on Landmark Pro. The $ per square foot installed can vary by region – e.g. an Allentown, PA roof might be $4–$5/sq ft for these shingles, while in a high-cost city or remote area it could be $6–$8/sq ft installed. Always ensure quotes cover the same scope (vents, flashings, number of plywood sheets to replace, etc.) when judging the price differences between Duration and Landmark Pro options.

Contractor and Homeowner Reviews

Technical specs aside, what do roofers and homeowners say about Owens Corning Duration vs CertainTeed Landmark Pro in everyday use? Both products have strong reputations, but let’s look at some anecdotal feedback and common themes:

  • Contractor Preference: Many roofing contractors praise CertainTeed Landmark Pro for its build quality. It’s often described as “a great shingle, our go-to standard” by pros who value its thickness and reliability. Some contractors feel that CertainTeed’s quality control is top-notch – for instance, bundles tend to have consistent shingle dimensions and the shingles lay flat with fewer defects out of the package. The heavier weight is seen as a sign of durability. One roofer on a forum stated, “CertainTeed Landmark shingles are better. Take an OC shingle and bend it – you’ll see a crease where granules fall off. Do the same with a Landmark and you won’t; go with Landmark Pro, better product”. This suggests Landmark’s mat and asphalt content hold granules tighter, at least in that installer’s experience. On the flip side, Owens Corning Duration is also well-liked, especially because of the SureNail® strip. Many installers appreciate the easy-to-hit nailing target and say it reduces installation errors. Fewer high nails or off-center nails mean fewer problems down the road. In high-wind areas, contractors often trust Duration shingles; the SureNail gives them confidence the shingles will stay put. Some crews also find Duration a bit lighter and thus slightly easier to handle on a roof – not a huge factor, but noticeable on multi-story jobs.

  • Reported Issues: No shingle is perfect. A few contractors have reported issues with Owens Corning Duration in certain batches – notably, some mentioned “OC is known for large granular loss and bundles not having enough adhesive on the back of the shingle”. There have been cases where an Owens Corning rep had to inspect a roof for shingle sealing problems and in some instances, OC paid to replace the roof under warranty. These situations are not the norm but have been noted in contractor forums. By contrast, complaints about CertainTeed Landmark Pro are rarer, but one thing to watch: because they are heavier, if a bundle of Landmark Pro is dropped or mishandled, the corners can get dinged or the stack can scuff – so installers need to be careful. Also, a very minor gripe some mention: the extra asphalt in Landmark Pro can make the bundles slightly stickier in hot weather, meaning a bit more effort to separate shingles when laying them. Overall, homeowners consistently rate both shingles highly for appearance and performance, but you might find fewer negative reviews on Landmark Pro regarding early granule loss. Owens Corning did address some of these concerns by improving their algae and asphalt formulas (as evidenced by extending the algae warranty to 25 years), so recent years’ product seems to be improved.

  • Installation & Handling: Roofers tend to agree that Both shingles are installer-friendly, but in different ways. Owens Corning’s Duration with SureNail is very forgiving – even newer roofers find it easy to nail correctly, and the strip helps avoid the dreaded “blow-through” (where the nail goes through the mat) on hot days with pneumatic guns. Landmark Pro, while it doesn’t have a fabric strip, does have the NailTrak indicators which installers appreciate for speed. Seasoned roofers who hand-nail sometimes prefer CertainTeed’s thicker shingle, as it feels sturdier under the hammer. One comment from an experienced roofer: “I like CertainTeed because it’s physically a heavier shingle”. The extra weight can translate to a bit more wear-and-tear on crews (imagine carrying an extra 50 lbs for every square across a whole roof), but pros are used to it. As for cutting and bending, Landmark Pro’s added thickness means you need a sharp knife blade to cut ridge caps or valleys – a trivial point, but notable to installers. Owens Corning Duration cuts slightly easier due to a tad less bulk. Neither shingle has the dreaded fiberglass “itch” that older mats had – both are coated well with asphalt.

  • Curb Appeal: Homeowners often comment on how their new roof looks. Here, both shine in different ways. CertainTeed’s Max Def colors are loved for their vibrancy – many homeowners choose Landmark Pro specifically for a color like Moire Black, Resawn Shake, or Atlantic Blue that “pops” more than competing brands. The definition between light and dark granules in Landmark Pro can be slightly more pronounced, giving the roof a sharp, textured look. Owens Corning’s TruDefinition colors are also highly regarded – Duration offers some unique blends (e.g. Summer Harvest, Merlot, Pacific Wave in the Designer series) that homeowners rave about for adding character. In terms of dimensional appearance, Landmark Pro being a bit thicker might cast deeper shadows in certain light, but in practice both give a beautiful dimensional look that’s a huge upgrade from flat 3-tab shingles. It’s often down to the specific color choice and personal taste. Some homeowners also mention brand recognition: they feel confident seeing the Owens Corning or CertainTeed name, perhaps due to marketing or contractor recommendation. Both brands rate well in consumer surveys for satisfaction.

  • Longevity and Performance Feedback: It’s common to hear from homeowners who’ve had these shingles for 5–10 years and are happy with the performance – no leaks, no missing shingles, and the color holding up well. In contractor forums, many note that proper attic ventilation and installation are the biggest factors in shingle longevity, more so than minor brand differences. A good installer will make either Duration or Landmark Pro last and protect your home as intended. That said, if we look at 15-20 year old roofs, some roofers feel CertainTeed shingles age a bit better – citing fewer cases of cupping or granular loss. Owens Corning’s older Duration (from the 2000s) had a reputation of “shedding” granules as it aged, but the formula has changed since. When maintained, both shingles should easily last 25-30+ years in normal conditions, with many lasting much longer. Each brand has plenty of examples of roofs that are still going strong at the upper end of their life. Checking contractor reviews regionally can give you an idea if one brand consistently outperforms the other in your local climate.

Bottom Line – Reputation: You really can’t go wrong with either Owens Corning Duration or CertainTeed Landmark Pro – they are both top-tier asphalt shingles with loyal followings. CertainTeed often gets a slight nod from pros who prioritize a heavier shingle and perhaps perceive fewer warranty hassles. Owens Corning gets praise for innovation and widespread availability; plus homeowners might encounter Owens Corning more due to their extensive marketing and contractor network. When deciding, consider the specific feedback of your chosen roofer (since they will be the one dealing with the product on your roof) and look at homes in your area that have one shingle or the other to see how they look after a few years. Both shingles, if installed properly, should earn high marks for long-term satisfaction.

Conclusion: Which Shingle Should You Choose?

Choosing between Owens Corning Duration and CertainTeed Landmark Pro is a bit like choosing between two honor students – both score high in all the important categories. The “better” choice will depend on your priorities:

  • If you value cutting-edge installation features and a slightly lower price, Owens Corning Duration has the edge. Its SureNail® strip is a genuine differentiator for high-wind performance and could mean a better install on your roof (fewer chances of nailing errors or blow-offs). The expanded 25-year algae warranty is a plus for those in algae-prone areas. And with plenty of color options, you’re likely to find a hue you love. Duration shingles offer a great balance of strength, beauty, and value – making them a favorite for many homeowners and contractors alike.

  • If you prioritize maximum material durability and don’t mind paying a bit extra, CertainTeed Landmark Pro shines. It’s literally beefier – about 20–25% heavier – which many equate to enhanced toughness in harsh weather. Landmark Pro’s longer standard algae warranty (15 years base, up to 30 years) and strong track record of aging gracefully are attractive for long-term owners. Its rich Max Def colors and thicker appearance might better complement certain homes. Seasoned roofers often praise Landmark Pro for its quality, which can give you peace of mind that you’re investing in a premium product.

For climates with extreme hail or extreme cold, you might lean toward the brands’ modified versions (Duration Flex or Landmark ClimateFlex) rather than the standard shingles – so brand aside, consider those upgrades if relevant. In hurricane zones, both are equal when installed to spec, though Owens Corning’s 4-nail 130 MPH rating is impressive. In hot sunny climates, both have cool-roof options (Solaris or Duration Cool) to help with energy efficiency.

One practical consideration: availability and contractor expertise. If your trusted local roofer is an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and works with Duration all the time, you’ll likely get an excellent result with that combo. Conversely, if a CertainTeed-certified crew who installs Landmark Pro daily gives you a good quote, you can be confident in that choice. Using the brand that your installer is most comfortable with can tilt the odds in favor of a smoother installation and fewer issues – both shingle lines require slightly different techniques (nail placement, etc.), and a crew’s familiarity matters.

Finally, think about warranty and future support. CertainTeed and Owens Corning are both stable, well-established companies that will likely be around to honor warranties decades from now. CertainTeed’s extended SureStart™ PLUS is often considered one of the best warranty programs if you go 5-Star (including workmanship for 25 years). Owens Corning’s Platinum warranty is similarly robust, with lifetime workmanship coverage. So if you’re the type to sleep better with a bulletproof warranty, see which contractor can offer the higher level of protection and factor that into your decision.

In summary, Owens Corning Duration and CertainTeed Landmark Pro are both excellent asphalt shingle choices for a residential roof. Homeowners across the country have had great success with both, from the hurricane-battered coasts to the snowy north. Your roof will be in good hands with either shingle – so evaluate the specific benefits, check the boxes that matter most to you (be it wind rating, color, warranty, or weight), and choose a reputable installer to bring it all together. With the right choice, you’ll have a beautiful, durable roof over your head for many years to come, backed by two of the most trusted names in roofing.

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Rich Prue

Rich Prue is the founder of The Roofer’s Helper, a leading resource for roofing contractors and homeowners seeking expert advice on roofing industry trends, business tips, and home maintenance. With years of hands-on experience as a second-generation roofer, Rich brings practical knowledge and insider insights to help roofing professionals start and grow their businesses and serve clients effectively. The Roofer's Helper platform reaches close to 1 million followers on social media, offering both educational and entertaining content, business resources, marketing tips, and product recommendations to roofing professionals and homeowners alike. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-prue/

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