Are Malarkey Shingles Good? Reviewing The Real Pros and Cons

Thinking about Malarkey shingles and whether they’re the right choice for your roof? They’re a popular name in the roofing industry, known for features like durability, sustainability, and unique manufacturing innovations. But how do they actually perform in real-world conditions, especially on homes here in Indiana?

At Hoel Roofing, we install Malarkey shingles and have done so for over 9 years, and we believe in helping homeowners make informed decisions, whether you hire us or not. We’ve worked with plenty of Malarkey shingles here in East Central Indiana, and we’re sharing our honest take to help you figure out if they’re right for your roof.

In this article, we’ll cover: what Malarkey shingles are and what makes them unique, their top features and benefits, how much they cost, their pros and cons (including what Hoel Roofing has seen firsthand), who they’re best suited for, and what your next steps should be if you’re considering Malarkey.

What are the types of Malarkey Shingles?

Malarkey offers three main lines of shingles: Highlander® NEX®, Vista®, and Legacy®.

Highlander® NEX® 

These Architectural (laminate) shingles are best for budget-conscious homeowners who still want solid performance and eco-friendly materials.

Key Features:

• Made with NEX® polymer-modified asphalt, which enhances flexibility and durability compared to traditional asphalt
• Incorporates upcycled rubber and plastics for sustainability
• Includes algae-resistant granules to prevent streaking and discoloration
• Class 3 hail impact rating

Vista® – a mid-range option with enhanced impact resistance

Mid-tier architectural shingles with better impact resistance and longevity. Good for homes in areas with occasional hail or strong storms that need more durability than Highlander but don’t need full Class 4 protection.

Key Features:

• Built with NEX® technology for stronger granule adhesion and better weather performance
• Class 4 impact resistance; stronger than standard shingles, though not the highest level
• Available in bold color blends for more curb appeal
• Superior warranty protection
• Class A fire rating

Legacy® 

Premium line with Class 4 impact resistance. Best for homeowners in storm-prone areas or those wanting the best performance and protection. Good for homes in Indiana and other Midwest regions that face hail, windstorms, or temperature extremes. It’s also a great long-term investment if you want peace of mind for decades.

Key Features:

• Class 4 impact resistance (the highest available) — protects against severe hail and debris
• Made with NEX® polymer asphalt for unmatched flexibility and resistance to cracking or granule loss
• Scotchgard™ protection for advanced algae defense
• Stronger sealants and nailing zones for high-wind protection

What Features and Benefits Do Malarkey Shingles Offer?

Here’s why we recommend Malarkey shingles over any other asphalt shingle brand we’ve worked with:

• Polymer-Modified Asphalt: This is a huge deal. The shingles are more elastic, which helps them expand and contract with Indiana’s changing seasons. That reduces cracking and keeps them sealed tight.
• Superior Granule Retention: Because of that SBS rubberized material, they hold onto their protective granules much better over time, so your shingles last longer.
• High Impact Ratings: Depending on the line, you’re looking at Class 3 or even Class 4 impact resistance. That’s great peace of mind in hail-prone areas.
• Smog-Reducing Granules: These shingles help reduce air pollution, about the same as planting two trees per roof. That’s not just good for your home; it’s good for your community.
• Recycled Materials: They repurpose old tires and plastics, making them one of the most eco-conscious shingle brands available.

Tip: Malarkey shingles are built to last and built to protect your home and the environment. They’re especially great for climates with extreme hot-cold cycles like Indiana.

What Are the Cons of Malarkey Shingles?

We’ve been working with Malarkey shingles for years, and here’s our honest take:

Cons

• Higher cost than standard architectural shingles
• When installed in high temperatures, they track up, which is a distortion or damage from walking on them while they’re hot.

To be honest, we haven’t seen any downsides worth flagging from our installs. They’ve held up great, sealed properly, and delivered exactly what you’d want from a premium shingle.

How Much Do Malarkey Shingles Cost?

Malarkey shingles generally cost between $500 and $750 per square (100 sq. ft.) installed, depending on which line you choose.

• Highlander® NEX®: around $500–600 per square
• Vista®: around $600–675 per square
• Legacy®: around $675–750+ per square

What Has Hoel Roofing’s Experience Been with Malarkey Shingles?

We’d confidently recommend Malarkey over any other asphalt shingle brand.

That’s not just a sales pitch; that’s based on what we’ve seen on rooftops over time. In Indiana, where weather extremes are part of the deal, the flexibility and seal strength of Malarkey shingles really shine. In the over nine years that we have been in business, we have installed Malarkey shingles on homes that needed long-term performance, and they’ve consistently delivered:

• No granule shedding issues
• No wind-blown shingles
• Fewer warranty or maintenance callbacks

Tip: If you’re comparing roofing quotes, ask which Malarkey line is included. Each tier has different performance levels, so don’t assume all Malarkey shingles are the same.

So, Are Malarkey Shingles Good?

Malarkey shingles are a great fit if you’re looking for quality over quick savings. You should consider them if:

• You plan to stay in your home for many years
• You want a roof that will hold up in all four Indiana seasons
• You’re in a hail- or wind-prone area
• You care about sustainability and reducing your environmental impact
• You want long-term peace of mind with fewer repairs

You should not consider them if:

• You are a flipper or have a short-term rental
• Working with a tight budget and can’t afford to spend much on shingles.

If Malarkey shingles sound like a match for your home, here’s what to do next:

• Ask for a quote that includes the specific Malarkey line (Highlander, Vista, or Legacy)
• Compare it to other top-tier brands like CertainTeed or Owens Corning
• Talk to your roofer about their experience with Malarkey installs
• Consider your long-term goals for the home. Malarkey shines most when you’re in it for the long haul

If you’re undecided, it might be helpful to compare them with one of the most discussed alternatives: GAF. We’ve seen both brands on real roofs right here in East Central Indiana, and we broke down how they compare in terms of durability, cost, and performance. Read our side-by-side comparison of GAF vs. Malarkey shingles

Or, if you’d rather talk about Malarkey shingles, feel free to reach out for a no-pressure chat. We’re always happy to help you make the best call for your roof.