Making Polymer Modified Asphalt Roofing Shingles More Sustainable

Malarkey Roofing Products is deferring waste from entering landfills by reducing our need for new synthetic materials with sustainable shingles.

With its Nexgen™ polymer modified asphalt, the next generation of asphalt shingle technology, specific polymers are included to enhance performance characteristics of the shingle, sourced from recycled materials. The environmental results are significant.

At each manufacturing facility, Malarkey uses recycled materials for the Vista™ shingle, which features Nexgen™ polymer modified asphalt. At this scale of production, the reduction of environmental impact is substantial. For every ton of recycled plastic used, 4 barrels of oil and 7.4 cubic yards of landfill space are saved. Additionally, for every pound of recycled tire rubber used, one pound of carbon dioxide is prevented from being released into the atmosphere. On an average-sized roof with Vista™ shingles for instance, the reclaimed quality material equates to roughly 5.5 tires and 350 milk jugs. Furthermore, at the end of their service lives, asphalt roofing shingles themselves can be ground up and repurposed into material for road paving.

The reduction in environmental impact is dramatic, but the focus has always been to create a better roofing shingle.

Beginning with the introduction of SBS polymers into the asphalt oxidation process in 1976, we have sought out materials that enhance and extend the performance of our asphalt roofing shingles. For instance, roofing shingles need to perform in all weather conditions, such as during installation in cold temperatures. To prevent cracking in the roofing shingles during cold weather installs, Malarkey’s research and development team identified certain polymers which can be utilized in the asphalt to improve flexibility without sacrificing other attributes. Their findings then yielded a specific formula for the asphalt’s modification.

Flexor™ polymer modified asphalt is further evidence of this approach, utilizing polymers from plastic milk jugs to retain elasticity in cold weather. These polymers additionally provide increased material strength at high temperatures and durability against scarring, tearing and impacts to the shingles. All Malarkey shingles with Flexorä polymer modified asphalt are rated for UL2218 Class 4 impact resistance, the highest rating in the category.

Along with the polymers from plastics used in Flexor™, Nexgen™ features polymers from qualified reclaimed tire rubber that have their own benefits. These polymers increased the asphalt’s ultraviolet resistance from sunlight, which prevents premature shingle aging. They also provide enhanced resistance from impact and improved flexibility.

For more than 60 years, Malarkey Roofing Products has continually sought to innovate our products for improved performance and service life, while limiting their impact on the environment. At Malarkey, we recognize the value and quality of life that the verdant, open spaces provide for us. As a family company based in Oregon, Malarkey Roofing Products is especially focused on maintaining the quality of our business and environment for future generations.

Learn more about Malarkey Roofing Products at www.malarkeyroofing.com.

Editor’s note: This blog first appeared on Malarkey’s blog at can be viewed here.