At Hoel Roofing & Remodeling, we believe in giving our customers honest, expert guidance when it comes to choosing the right shingle. Two of the most popular names in roofing—Malarkey and GAF—both offer high-performance asphalt shingles. The truth is that both are great options and the right choice for you depends on what factors you prioritize.
If you’re comparing the two, you’re probably asking:
Let’s break it down—and explain why Malarkey shingles are often the better investment for homeowners who want performance, sustainability, and long-term value.
Before we dive into how Malarkey and GAF stack up, let’s walk through the key features we’re comparing — and why they matter when you’re choosing the right shingles for your home.
Not all shingles are created equal, and the differences go far beyond just color or price. Here are the most important factors to understand:
This measures how well shingles stand up to hail and flying debris. The higher the rating, the better the protection.
Why it matters: In storm-prone areas like Indiana, higher impact ratings can help protect your roof and even lower your homeowners insurance premium.
This tells you the maximum wind speed the shingles are rated to resist without blowing off. Many top shingles, including both GAF and Malarkey, are rated for winds up to 130 mph.
Why it matters: A strong wind rating gives you peace of mind during storms and tornado conditions.
Some shingles have a wider, reinforced strip for nails, which reduces the chance of installation errors.
Why it matters: If a shingle is improperly nailed, it can lift or leak. A better nailing zone means a stronger, more durable roof — especially important during high winds.
Some shingles are made with recycled materials or have granules that reduce smog and reflect sunlight.
Why it matters: If you care about sustainability or want a cooler roof that helps lower energy bills, eco-friendly features can add long-term value.
Shingle granules protect against UV rays and improve appearance. But over time, poor-quality shingles lose granules, leading to discoloration, moss, or algae growth.
Why it matters: Stronger granule adhesion and algae resistance keep your roof looking newer, longer — with less maintenance.
Both Malarkey and GAF offer lifetime warranties, but product lines and coverage vary.
Why it matters: A slightly higher upfront cost could mean fewer repairs, longer life, and better warranty support — saving you money in the long run.
Now that you know the “why” behind each of these categories, let’s take a side-by-side look at how Malarkey and GAF compare.
| Feature | Malarkey | GAF |
| Impact Resistance | Class 3 & 4 (standard in all lines) | Class 4 (only in select lines) |
| Wind Rating | Up to 130 mph | Up to 130 mph |
| Nail Zone | Wider, reinforced | Standard |
| Eco-Friendly | Rubberized asphalt with recycled content | Traditional asphalt |
| Granule Adhesion | Superior algae resistance and solar-reflective granules | Algae-resistant, standard granules |
| Price | Slightly higher | More budget-friendly |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime (with enhanced options) | Limited lifetime (with enhanced options) |
Malarkey shingles are made using NEX® polymer modified asphalt, which includes recycled rubber and plastics. This makes them more flexible and impact-resistant—especially in cold climates.
Real Advantage: Better absorption of hail and debris without cracking.
Malarkey’s Highlander® and Vista® shingles are Class 3 or Class 4 impact rated by default. GAF requires an upgrade to Armorshield™ for the same rating.
Real Advantage: More protection at a lower upgrade cost.
Malarkey’s reinforced nailing strip is wider, helping ensure more secure installation and reducing the chance of failure due to improper fastening.
Real Advantage: Fewer install errors and stronger wind resistance.
Malarkey shingles:
GAF has some green initiatives, but Malarkey leads here.
Real Advantage: Better for the environment and your utility bills.
Malarkey uses 3M™ Smog-Reducing and Algae-Resistant granules with stronger retention. GAF uses copper granules but lacks the same adhesion technology.
Real Advantage: Cleaner roofs, longer-lasting color, and less maintenance.
GAF is a solid choice for:
Still, for homeowners focused on long-term value, Malarkey provides more—especially if you’re staying in your home for many years.
We recommend Malarkey when quality, durability, and sustainability matter most. It’s not just about the brand—it’s about lasting protection for your home.
If you’re considering a new roof or comparing shingle brands, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today or 📝 request a free estimate online.
Let’s find the perfect roof for your home and budget.
Bob Hoel is the owner and founder of Hoel Roofing & Remodeling, proudly serving Rushville, IN, and surrounding areas with high-quality roofing and remodeling services for over 9 years. With decades of hands-on experience in residential and commercial roofing, Bob specializes in installing and repairing asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and custom exterior solutions. He is committed to staying current with the latest roofing technologies and best practices. As both a contractor and an educator, Bob is dedicated to helping homeowners understand roofing systems, maintenance, and how to protect one of their biggest investments: their home.
