CertainTeed vs Malarkey shingles: which is right for Minneapolis?
CertainTeed and Malarkey are the two shingle brands Modern Exterior Systems (Modex) installs most. CertainTeed Landmark Pro (ShingleMaster certified) uses standard asphalt with strong warranty backing. Malarkey Legacy (Emerald Pro certified) uses SBS-modified rubber polymer for superior cold-weather and hail performance. Both $10K–$22K typical install. Modex carries top-tier certification for both — choose by feature priority.
Comparison
Which shingle is better for Minneapolis homes: CertainTeed or Malarkey?
I install both CertainTeed ShingleMaster and Malarkey Emerald Pro. Most comparisons come from contractors certified for one brand—I'm certified for both, so I have no stake in which one you choose, only in the right recommendation for your home.
Comparison
CertainTeed vs Malarkey shingles side by side
Both are solid choices. Here's how they stack up on the features that matter most.
CertainTeed Landmark Pro
Architectural standard
Asphalt composition
Standard asphalt
Warranty (non-prorated)
5 years with ShingleMaster
Hail resistance
Standard (NorthGate available)
Color and style range
Broad selection
Ice dam performance
Good in ventilated attics
Twin Cities recognition
High in premium neighborhoods
Malarkey Vista
Architectural standard
Asphalt composition
SBS-modified rubberized
Warranty (non-prorated)
20 years with Emerald Pro
Hail resistance
Enhanced by SBS polymer
Color and style range
Solid selection
Ice dam performance
Superior flexibility in freeze-thaw
Storm-prone property choice
Ideal for exposed lots
Technical
The material difference that matters most
Malarkey's SBS-modified asphalt is the core distinction. That polymer additive makes the shingle flex under stress instead of cracking. In Minnesota, where hail, ice dams, and freeze-thaw cycles are routine, that flexibility translates to fewer callbacks and longer roof life. CertainTeed's standard asphalt is proven and reliable, but it's less forgiving in extreme weather.
Pricing
CertainTeed Landmark Pro
Architectural standard with broad color range
Basic plan
CertainTeed Landmark Pro
$14K–$24K
Includes
SureStart Plus 5-year non-prorated
Lifetime limited material warranty
Standard asphalt composition
Twin Cities market familiarity
Broad style and color options
Warranties
Coverage comparison
Here's how each brand protects your investment over time.
CertainTeed
Non-prorated
SureStart Plus with ShingleMaster installation and registration required
Malarkey
Non-prorated
Emerald Pro extended warranty with registration included
Material warranty
Lifetime
Unlimited
Included with ShingleMaster
Included with Emerald Pro
Yes
Unlimited
Transferable to next owner
Yes, limited
Yes, limited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Ice dam protection
Good with ventilation
Superior flexibility
Unlimited
Minnesota freeze-thaw
Granule retention
Good in sun exposure
Better in wet cycles
Unlimited
Verdict
When to choose each shingle for your roof
Both are solid. The choice depends on your lot's exposure and what matters most to you. Here's my honest take after installing both on hundreds of Twin Cities roofs.
Choose CertainTeed if
You want broad color and style options, live in a premium neighborhood where resale comps favor CertainTeed, or prefer a proven mainstream choice with lower entry cost.
Choose Malarkey if
Your lot has mature trees, you're in a storm-prone area, or you value hail resistance and ice dam flexibility. The SBS-modified composition earns its premium in Minnesota weather.
Questions
I've installed both brands on hundreds of Twin Cities roofs. Here's what homeowners ask most.
Ready to choose the right shingle for your Minneapolis home?
I'll walk you through both options and recommend based on your roof's exposure, climate risk, and budget. Go deeper on CertainTeed shingles and Malarkey shingles.
About
Why I'm the honest broker on this comparison
I'm certified for both CertainTeed ShingleMaster and Malarkey Emerald Pro. That means I have no financial stake in which one you choose—only in getting the right shingle on your roof.
CertainTeed ShingleMaster certified
Malarkey Emerald Pro certified
Reviewed by Joe Dvorak, Owner
