I get where you’re coming from on the “optional” upgrades—once you’ve seen what a little water can do in the wrong spot, it’s hard to unsee it. I used to think ice & water shield was just a way for roofers to pad the bill, but after a gnarly ice dam a few winters back, I’m a convert. It’s not just about leaks, either. That stuff keeps wind-driven rain from sneaking in under the shingles, which is a real issue around here.
On the CertainTeed front, I’ve run the numbers a few times for my own place and for a couple of friends. The Pro line definitely stings at checkout, but if you factor in the extra years you’ll get before needing a tear-off, it starts to look a lot less painful. The regular Landmarks are fine for milder climates, but if you’re dealing with high winds or big temperature swings, the heavier shingle just holds up better. I’ve seen too many “10-year” roofs that start curling or losing granules way before they should.
One thing I wish I’d done differently: I cheaped out on ridge venting the first time around. Ended up with some attic moisture and had to retrofit better ventilation after the fact. Not fun, and not cheap. If you’re budgeting, maybe don’t go wild on every single upgrade, but definitely don’t skip the stuff that keeps water and heat where they belong.
If you’re worried about cost, sometimes you can save a bit by scheduling your install off-season (late fall, early spring). Not every crew will offer a discount, but some do if they’re looking to fill the schedule. Just don’t let them rush the job if the weather’s iffy—cold temps can mess with how the shingles seal.
Anyway, just my two cents. Roofing is one of those things where you don’t really appreciate the upgrades until you’re up there in February with a bucket and a flashlight...
I hear you on the ridge venting—skimped on that once for a duplex and paid for it with moldy insulation and a bunch of grumpy tenants. Never again. I’ve found the Pro line holds up better in our freeze/thaw cycles, but yeah, that sticker shock is real. If you’re juggling upgrades, I’d put money into underlayment and ventilation before splurging on fancy shingle colors or whatever. Also, off-season installs can be a gamble… had one crew try to rush before a cold snap and the tabs never sealed right. Worth double-checking the forecast if you go that route.
That’s interesting about the Pro line—my contractor pitched it too, but I hesitated because of cost. I ended up going with Landmark (mid-tier) and spent a little extra on synthetic underlayment and a ridge vent system. I agree, ventilation is easy to overlook but totally worth it, especially in colder climates. Didn’t realize off-season installs could mess with shingle sealing... that’s good to know. I’d say don’t cut corners on the “boring” stuff under the shingles. The colors are nice, but dry ceilings are better.
Landmark’s a solid choice—honestly, I think you made the right call not jumping straight to the Pro line if budget was a concern. I’ve had both on different properties and, while the Pro does have some beefed-up specs, the difference in real-world performance isn’t always as dramatic as the sales pitch makes it sound. Spending a bit more on synthetic underlayment and proper ventilation is money far better spent, in my experience. The “boring” stuff, like you said, is what keeps you from dealing with headaches down the line.
Ventilation gets overlooked all the time. I learned that the hard way with my first house—ice dams every winter until I finally invested in a ridge vent and some extra soffit vents. It’s not glamorous, but it made a huge difference in attic temps and moisture. If you’re in a cold climate, that’s non-negotiable. And yeah, off-season installs can be tricky. I had a section of shingles lift after a late fall install because they never sealed properly before winter hit. Had to get the crew back out in spring to re-seat them. Not fun.
One thing I’d add: don’t skimp on flashing or drip edge either. I see people try to save a few bucks there, but water always finds the weak spots. Also, if your roof has valleys or weird angles, make sure your contractor’s got a good plan for those spots—they’re leak magnets if not done right.
Color’s nice for curb appeal, but you’re spot on—dry ceilings and no mold are what really matter. If you’re budgeting, prioritize what goes under and around the shingles over the shingle brand itself (within reason). The “invisible” stuff is what keeps you dry for 20+ years.
The “boring” stuff, like you said, is what keeps you from dealing with headaches down the line.
Couldn’t agree more. I cheaped out on flashing around my chimney a few years back—regretted it fast. Ended up with a slow leak that took forever to track down. Lesson learned: spend the extra on the stuff you can’t see. Landmark’s held up well for me, but it’s all about what’s underneath and around it.
