An Honest Review of Malarkey Roofing Products: Pros, Cons, and How They Compare

Who Is Malarkey Roofing?

Malarkey is a U.S.-based roofing manufacturer that's been in business since 1956. While it may not be a household name for every homeowner just yet, it's a quickly expanding brand that's earned deep trust among roofing professionals, especially those focused on long-term performance and sustainability.

What sets Malarkey apart is its commitment to innovation. The company offers a range of impact-resistant architectural and designer shingles constructed to withstand harsh weather conditions like hail and high winds. It's also known for pioneering environmentally friendly manufacturing, incorporating recycled materials and smog-reducing granules into many of its products.

What Are the Key Advantages of Malarkey Roofing Products?

Choosing the right shingles for your roofing system goes beyond aesthetics and curb appeal; it's about long-term value, protection, and peace of mind. What many homeowners don't realize is how much shingle performance can vary, even within the same brand. That's where Malarkey stands out. Its innovations go beyond marketing buzzwords, offering real, measurable differences in durability, installation reliability, and environmental impact.

Let's take a closer look at some of the top reasons roofing professionals and informed homeowners are choosing Malarkey.

Malarkey is Eco-Friendly and Sustainability-Focused

Malarkey has earned a leading reputation in sustainable roofing by focusing on both environmental benefits and long-term performance. Their shingles are made with upcycled rubber and plastics, reducing landfill waste while creating a stronger, more durable product.

Material Built to Withstand Harsh Weather

Malarkey invented and patented their own rubberized asphalt technology. This innovation helps their shingles better withstand hail, wind, and flying debris. Even their entry-level Highlander line uses this technology and provides a Class 3 Impact Rating, which we'll talk more about later. Along with improved durability, this NEX Rubberized Asphalt helps keep granules secure, protecting the asphalt underneath and improving shingle longevity.

Eco-Friendly Shingles That Fight Pollution

What really sets Malarkey apart in the sustainability space is its use of smog-reducing granules, which help clean the air by converting harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides into water-soluble ions using sunlight. These ions are then washed away by rain, making the shingles actively contribute to better air quality over time, similar to how trees help clean our air. It's estimated that, on average, each Malarkey roofing system offers the same air-cleaning power as 2 planted trees. For eco-conscious homeowners, Malarkey shingles offer a measurable environmental impact without sacrificing roof performance.

Durability Under Extreme Weather Conditions

Malarkey shingles are engineered to perform under some of the most demanding weather conditions in North America. Whether it's punishing hail, high-speed winds, or salt-heavy coastal air, all of Malarkey's available shingle options are built to last and protect.

• Impact Ratings: Their use of NEX Rubberized Asphalt improves impact absorption and resists cracking in cold weather. The Legacy and Windsor lines are both Class 4 Impact Rated, the industry's highest standard, and are tested to withstand simulated 2-inch hailstones without splitting.
• Resistance to High-Wind Speeds: Malarkey shingles are rated for wind speeds up to 110-130 mph, depending on the shingle type, which is equivalent to a strong Category 3 hurricane. This level of performance is achieved through design elements like reinforced nailing zones, durable sealants, and a higher-grade asphalt blend that resists shingle lift. Even in gusty, storm-prone areas, Malarkey roofing systems provide long-lasting protection against the elements.

We've added a graphic below to showcase more details about Malarkey's NEX Rubberized Asphalt, sourced directly from their website:

Long-Term Curb Appeal

In addition to durability and performance, Malarkey shingles are designed to preserve the beauty of your home over time. Their thoughtful material choices and advanced granule technology help maintain a clean, vibrant roof appearance that minimizes premature fading, streaking, and discoloration.

Algae Protection

One of the leading causes of unsightly black streaks on roofs is algae growth, which thrives in humid or shady environments. All of Malarkey's shingle lines utilize copper-coated granules throughout the surface. These granules release copper ions slowly over time to prevent algae from taking hold, keeping roofs cleaner and reducing the need for power washing or harsh chemical treatments.

Cleaner Appearance, Longer Lasting Color

Because algae buildup and staining are major contributors to early roof aging, Malarkey's use of copper-infused granules helps prevent the black streaks commonly seen on older roofs. These granules gradually release copper ions that slow algae growth. According to the Copper Development Association, this technology can protect a roof's appearance for decades, providing algae resistance for up to 30 years and significantly reducing discoloration caused by algae. The result is a cleaner, better-looking roof that requires less maintenance over time.

Here is an image we sourced from Malarkey's website showing the dark streaks that algae can leave on your shingles as it grows over time:

Strong Warranties

Malarkey shingles come with strong, homeowner-friendly warranties that protect your investment for the long haul.

• Lifetime Limited Warranty: Every Malarkey shingle comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers manufacturing defects, providing peace of mind for long-term performance. 
• Right Start Non-Prorated Coverage: For the first 10 to 20 years (depending on the shingle line), Malarkey offers full non-prorated coverage. This means you’re covered for 100% of material costs during this period, without depreciation.
• Enhanced Protection with Certified Installers: With certified installation, you get stronger warranty terms and more complete coverage. Choosing a Malarkey Certified Contractor means your roof is installed by professionals trained specifically in Malarkey's installation standards and product system. This not only ensures proper installation for maximum performance, but it also qualifies your home for the upgraded Emerald Pro Warranty and guarantees the installation of quality materials. For homeowners, it’s a smart way to protect your investment. This includes:
  • A longer Right Start period of up to 50 years (yes, you read that right)
  • 15-year enhanced wind warranty, covering speeds of up to 140mph, depending on the shingle line. 
  • Limited lifetime algae protection on shingles with Scotchgard granules (Legacy and Windsor), and 10-15 years of coverage on other shingles.
• Transferable Coverage: The warranty can be transferred once to a new homeowner within a set period after the sale, potentially adding to the home value.

What Are the Potential Drawbacks of Malarkey Roofing Products?

Malarkey products deliver a strong blend of durability and performance, but we recognize that they’re not always the ideal fit for every homeowner. Beyond the added upfront cost, buyers should also be aware of other potential drawbacks, including fewer styling options and limited availability in certain regions.

Higher Upfront Cost

Malarkey shingles are priced higher than many industry-standard roofing brands, especially on some of their more premium shingles. Compared to the typical cost of a full roof replacement, upgrading to Malarkey typically adds a few hundred dollars to your overall project cost.

For some homeowners, that increase delivers added durability, impact resistance, and longer-term peace of mind. However, this may not be in every homeowner's best interest, as everyone's long-term goals and budgets are different. It's important to weigh your options across multiple brands and contractors, as well as have a good understanding of your home's specific needs before making a decision.

Limited Brand Recognition and Potential Availability

Malarkey may not yet be a household name in every market, particularly in areas where other brands like Owens Corning and GAF dominate big-box retail shelves.

Because Malarkey is still expanding its presence in some regions, particularly the Midwest, certain shingle lines or colors may not always be in stock and may require special ordering. This is especially true for premium lines like the Legacy or Windsor, which are less commonly carried by local suppliers, unlike some other big-name brands that are available at retail home-improvement chains. Homeowners on tight timelines or seeking specific colors should confirm availability early in the process.

Fewer Color and Style Options Than Some Competitors

While Malarkey offers a range of attractive colors, their current palette may be more limited than that of larger, national brands. For homeowners with highly specific aesthetic goals or matching needs for existing exteriors, it's worth exploring Malarkey's current shingle color options with your contractor. This can be especially true in neighborhoods with homeowners associations, where materials and color often need to be approved before construction begins.

How Does Malarkey Compare to Other Leading Roofing Brands?

Malarkey stands out for its sustainability and impact resistance, but may carry a higher price tag than some competitors. Whether it’s the best choice depends on your priorities and long-term goals.

Malarkey vs. GAF

• Sustainability: Malarkey leads with recycled content and smog-reducing granules. GAF offers some sustainable lines, but fewer innovations in material impact.
• Weather Performance: Malarkey shingles like Legacy and Windsor are Class 4 impact-rated and wind-tested up to 130 mph, with even their economic shingle option boasting a Class 3 Impact Rating. GAF offers high wind resistance and solid impact ratings, but not across all lines.
• Curb Appeal: Malarkey emphasizes durability, function, and sustainability, while GAF excels in color and style variety.
• Warranty: Malarkey provides long, non-prorated warranties with certified contractors. GAF also offers strong warranties through Master Elite installers.
• Reputation: GAF is widely recognized by consumers and can be regularly found at Home Depot. Malarkey is less known nationally, but their reputation is quickly growing.

Malarkey vs. CertainTeed

• Sustainability: Malarkey shines in eco-friendly material innovation. CertainTeed supports LEED (a globally recognized green building rating system), but uses more traditional manufacturing.
• Weather Performance: Malarkey offers higher impact and wind resistance in their top shingle lines. CertainTeed matches that durability in their premium products, but Malarkey offers a higher impact class rating at the entry-level.
• Curb Appeal: CertainTeed offers a wider variety of luxury and architectural designs, while Malarkey focuses more on function and longevity rather than a multitude of aesthetic styles.
• Warranty: Both CertainTeed and Malarkey offer strong warranty coverage, especially through certified contractors.
• Reputation: CertainTeed has a strong national presence amongst contractors and homeowners. Malarkey is gaining ground nationally, but it's not quite as recognized yet.

Malarkey vs. Owens Corning

• Sustainability: Malarkey leads with eco-innovation, with Owens Corning offering fewer green initiatives.
• Weather Performance: Malarkey performs strongly in harsh climates with higher impact ratings, especially with their entry-level shingle line. Owens Corning offers balanced performance with recent impact rating upgrades to at least one of their shingle options.
• Curb Appeal: Owens Corning is known for their selection of bold colors and designs. Malarkey emphasizes a clean, long-lasting appearance.
• Warranty: Both offer competitive lifetime warranties when installed by certified contractors.
• Reputation: Owens Corning is a nationally known brand name. While Malarkey has earned the respect of many contractors, it's less widely recognized by homeowners.

Who Is Malarkey Roofing Best (or Not Best) For?

Generally, Malarkey is a strong match for homeowners who place a high value on performance, protection, and sustainability. That said, it's not the ideal fit for every situation. Here's a quick breakdown of when Malarkey makes the most sense, and when another manufacturer might be worth exploring:

Malarkey may be a solid choice if:

• You live in a hail-prone or high-wind region
• You're a long-term homeowner who values durability and aesthetics
• Sustainability and performance matter to you

It might not be ideal if:

• You're flipping or selling your home soon
• Your top priority is upfront cost savings
• You're looking for a very specific aesthetic not available in Malarkey's current palette

Is a Malarkey Roofing System the Right Fit for You?

If you've read through this review and found that Malarkey may be a good fit for your home, the next step is figuring out which of their shingles best meets your needs. With options like Highlander, Vista, Legacy, and Windsor (each offering different performance levels, appearances, and price points), it's important to match the product to your climate, personal taste, and budget.

To make that easier, we've put together a full guide: Which Malarkey Shingle Is Right for You? Breaking Down Malarkey Shingle Styles. It's designed to help you understand how each shingle differs, what kind of home it pairs best with, and what you're getting for the cost, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. 

Curious what a Malarkey roofing system would cost for your home? Get a ballpark estimate in minutes with our instant estimator tool, no calls required.