CertainTeed Landmark Pro vs. GAF Timberline HDZ

Which Mid-Grade Shingle Is Best for Your Roof?

When it comes to selecting the best mid-grade shingles for your home, we use two different shingles: CertainTeed Landmark Pro and GAF Timberline HDZ. These are both amazing quality roof products, offering homeowners and contractors high-performance shingles that blend durability, aesthetics, and advanced technology. However, the differences between them can influence your choice, depending on your specific roofing needs.   You really can’t lose by choosing either one of these.

This guide will provide a detailed comparison of CertainTeed Landmark Pro and GAF Timberline HDZ, helping you determine which shingle is best for your next roofing project. If you’ve been searching for a mid grade shingle, this breakdown will give you the insight you need.

The Evolution of Roofing Technology

Over the years, roofing manufacturers have continuously integrated new technology to improve shingle strength, wind resistance, color vibrancy, and ease of installation. CertainTeed and GAF have both invested heavily in innovations that enhance the durability and functionality of their products.

For example, the introduction of advanced granule adhesion technology in both shingle lines has led to increased resistance to weathering and UV exposure. Meanwhile, nail-line reinforcement and sealing adhesives have significantly improved wind uplift resistance, ensuring better long-term performance.

CertainTeed Landmark Pro has evolved with a focus on thicker, heavier shingles that enhance both longevity and curb appeal (This the old school tried and true method.  Many of the long-time roofers prefer this method). GAF Timberline HDZ features a Teflon® strip, which is designed to prevent shingles from sticking together in the packaging while also aiding in a cleaner and more precise installation.

Aesthetic Appeal: Vibrant vs. Muted Colors

One of the most noticeable differences between the two shingles is their color presentation:

CertainTeed Landmark Pro:

• More vibrant colors with Max Def color technology, creating deeper, more eye-catching hues.

• Higher contrast in granules for a bold, dimensional look.

• Ideal for homeowners who want their roof to stand out and complement architectural details.

GAF Timberline HDZ:

• Offers more color options than Landmark Pro.

• More muted, natural-looking colors, which some homeowners prefer for a subtle, elegant appearance.

• Designed to blend seamlessly into landscapes or existing home exteriors.

If your priority is a high-definition, dramatic look, Landmark Pro may be the better option. If you prefer a softer aesthetic, GAF Timberline HDZ might be the better fit.

Performance Around Skylights, Boots, and Roof Vents

The thickness and profile of a shingle can significantly impact how well it integrates with roof accessories like skylights, vent boots, and ridge vents.

CertainTeed Landmark Pro:

• Because of its thicker and more dimensional design, Landmark Pro shingles tend to blend more seamlessly around boots, skylights, and other raised features.

• The additional thickness provides better waterproofing around these areas, ensuring a more polished look and long-term durability.

GAF Timberline HDZ:

• The flatter profile of HDZ shingles makes them an ideal choice for installing around smart vents and ridge vents, where a smoother integration is preferred.

• The flexibility of the shingle allows for better adhesion around metal flashing and vents, creating a cleaner finish in these areas.

If you are incorporating skylights or boots, CertainTeed Landmark Pro’s thicker profile might provide a more cohesive appearance. If you are working with smart vents or ridge vents, GAF’s flatter shingle design can offer a better aesthetic and practical fit.

Durability and Weather Resistance 

Both shingles offer excellent durability, but their designs impact their performance in different ways:

CertainTeed Landmark Pro:

• More granules per shingle, increasing weight and improving impact resistance.

• Thicker, dual-layered design, which provides superior protection against harsh weather conditions.

• Wind warranty up to 130 mph, provided proper installation is followed.

Certainteed has been using this technology since 2004, but this process has been known about for a long time.  Because of this a lot of quality roofers prefer this method.

GAF Timberline HDZ:

• Lighter and flatter shingle, making it easier to install on intricate roof designs.

• Better flexibility around roof metals, improving integration with vents, flashing, and ridge caps.

• Features DuraGrip™ Adhesive, which tightly seals each shingle, preventing blow-offs in high winds.

• Comes with WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty, offering coverage with no wind-speed limit when installed with qualifying GAF accessories. 

GAF has been using this technology since 2020, and most of the testing has been done in a lab.  We trust that it works because of the specs, but only nature has a way of proving what actually works in the long run.

Ease of Installation: Which Shingle Is More Contractor-Friendly?

For roofing contractors, ease of installation is an important factor. A well-designed shingle can reduce installation time and minimize errors, leading to a better-finished roof.

CertainTeed Landmark Pro:

• Comes with a reinforced nail line, making it easier for contractors to hit the correct placement.

• Great for securing additional roofing features like smart vents while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

• The heavier weight means proper installation is crucial—it requires extra attention to nailing and sealing.

GAF Timberline HDZ:

• StrikeZone™ nailing area is the widest in the industry, making it easier for contractors to hit the nail target.

• Works well in rapid installation projects, making it a preferred choice for large-scale roofing jobs.

If you are looking for a shingle that makes installation faster and more precise, GAF Timberline HDZ has the advantage. However, if you want a heavier, more robust shingle that integrates seamlessly with accessories, CertainTeed Landmark Pro is the better pick.

Warranty Comparison

A strong warranty is crucial when investing in a new roof. Here’s how the two compare:

Enhanced Warranty with a Certified Contractor:

Both CertainTeed and GAF offer enhanced warranty options when you work with a certified contractor and use a complete roofing system with their approved components. These warranties provide extended coverage, including labor, workmanship, and higher wind resistance levels.

• CertainTeed SureStart PLUS Warranty: Available when you install a CertainTeed Integrity Roof System with a Certified SELECT ShingleMaster™ Contractor. This warranty covers 50 years of material defects, 25 years of workmanship coverage, and higher wind resistance up to 130+ mph.

• GAF Golden Pledge® Warranty: Offered when using GAF Master Elite® Contractors and a complete GAF roofing system. This warranty includes 50 years of material coverage, 25 years of workmanship coverage, and unlimited wind warranty (when installed with required GAF accessories).

💡 These premium warranties cost extra, but they provide homeowners with the strongest protection available. If you're investing in a long-lasting roof, working with a certified contractor is highly recommended.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Your final decision should depend on your priorities:

Both shingles offer exceptional value, making them among the best mid-grade shingles available today. Whether you're searching for roofing near me or roof installers near me, be sure to choose a certified contractor who understands the unique advantages of each shingle.

Need help deciding? Contact us today for a free quote to get started!