CertainTeed’s Landmark Roofing Series is designed to evoke the depth and surface texture of natural roofing materials. The Landmark Series includes Landmark, Landmark IR, Landmark Premium and Landmark Pro. All of them have a two-piece laminated fibreglass-based construction. Below list some differences.

What is Class 4 IR?

UL2218 classification is a national standard for roof impact resistance by rating materials from Class 1 to Class 4, based on their resistance to the steel ball test. During the Class 4 rating test, the sample asphalt shingle did not crack when a steel ball 2” in diameter hit it twice in the same spot.

Are heavier roofing shingles better? 

Landmark Pro weights over 300 Ibs. per square, that is more than 50 Ibs than the average roofing shingles. Does weight determine how long shingles will last? Are heavier roofing shingles better quality? The short answer is, no and no.

The amount of asphalt used gives the shingle its thickness and much of its weight and adds to its strength. But the quantity is not everything to the story. The asphalt quality is much more important. Low-quality asphalt can be brittle and cause shingles to crack and split prematurely. High-quality shingles are more flexible and will last longer. 

NorthGate

CertainTeed’s NorthGate does not belong to CertainTeed’s Landmark Series. Similar to the Landmark IR, NorthGate also comes with a Class 4 rating, but NorthGate is heavier, about 270 Ibs. per square. (compared to 250 Ibs.) They are an excellent choice for both hail resistance and damage caused by the freeze/thaw cycle. 

In terms of cost, NorthGate is about $1 more per square foot minimum for 2020.