CertainTeed vs Malarkey — which handles Minneapolis hail better?

Both are Class 4 impact-resistant at the top trim level. Malarkey's SBS-modified rubber polymer absorbs hail impact more effectively than standard asphalt; CertainTeed NorthGate ClimateFlex uses standard asphalt with thicker laminate. Real-world Twin Cities hail-claim data favors Malarkey on same-storm cycles.

Is Modex certified for both CertainTeed and Malarkey?

Yes. Modex holds CertainTeed ShingleMaster and Malarkey Emerald Pro — top-tier installer certifications for both manufacturers. Extended warranty registration applies on every install.

Which has better algae resistance for Minneapolis humidity?

Malarkey with 3M Scotchgard carries lifetime algae warranty — the longest in the industry. CertainTeed StreakFighter carries 10-year algae warranty. For north-facing Minneapolis roof planes, Malarkey's lifetime backing matters.

How much does each cost in Minneapolis?

Same price point: $14,000-$28,000 typical full-house install for the architectural tier. Pricing tracks home size, pitch, and decking condition more than brand choice.

What is SBS-modified rubber and why does it matter?

SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) is a rubber polymer blended into the asphalt. The result: shingles that stay flexible at -20°F and absorb hail impact better than standard asphalt. Minneapolis sees 80+ freeze-thaw cycles per year — SBS-modified shingles handle that cycling without micro-fracturing.

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.

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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.

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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.

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Pricing

CertainTeed Landmark Pro

Architectural standard with broad color range

Basic plan

$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

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Warranties

Coverage comparison

Here's how each brand protects your investment over time.

CertainTeed

5 years

Non-prorated

SureStart Plus with ShingleMaster installation and registration required

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Malarkey

20 years

Non-prorated

Emerald Pro extended warranty with registration included

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Material warranty

Lifetime

Unlimited

Included with ShingleMaster

Included with Emerald Pro

Unlimited

Registration required

Yes

Unlimited

Transferable to next owner

Yes, limited

Unlimited

Hail coverage

Standard asphalt only

SBS-modified advantage

Unlimited

Ice dam protection

Good with ventilation

Superior flexibility

Unlimited

Minnesota freeze-thaw

Proven performance

Enhanced durability

Unlimited

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.

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Questions

I've installed both brands on hundreds of Twin Cities roofs. Here's what homeowners ask most.

Still have questions?

Call me at 952-206-6339 or request a free estimate.

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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.

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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

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CertainTeed vs Malarkey shingles: which is right for Minneapolis?

Which shingle is better for Minneapolis homes: CertainTeed or Malarkey?