Add years to your roof!

Reuse. Recycle. Restore. When it comes to sustainability, the smartest solution is often breathing new life into something you already have. That philosophy applies to everything from furniture to automobiles and, increasingly, to one of the biggest investments a homeowner makes—their roof.

Instead of replacing aging asphalt shingles, homeowners now have another option. Through the protocol at Roof Maxx of Wadsworth, Nathan Gray uses a soy-based treatment designed to restore the oils shingles naturally lose over time, extending the life of a roof by as much as 10 to 15 years.

For Nathan, the idea has a personal connection. He grows soybeans on his own farm, so the concept of putting a soybean-derived product to work on roofs appealed to him.

“I like the idea of using something natural to preserve something that’s already there,” he says. “Why replace a roof if you can responsibly extend its useful life?”

Science Behind the Service

Independent research conducted at The Ohio State University’s BioSystems Analysis Laboratory found that soy methyl ester can reverse shingle deterioration, restoring flexibility, waterproofing and structural integrity.

As asphalt shingles age, the natural oils within them gradually evaporate. Exposure to heat, ultraviolet rays and our ever-changing weather conditions accelerates this process, leaving shingles brittle and susceptible to cracking.

Derived from soybean oil, soy methyl ester has a molecular structure remarkably similar to the oils originally present in asphalt shingles. It penetrates the shingles in a water-based emulsion and replenishes oils lost through years of weathering.

“The spray-on oil’s properties mimic the oils used in asphalt shingles when they were originally manufactured,” says Nathan. 

The result? A roof that can regain flexibility and better resist the breaking and cracking that eventually lead to leaks. It will look renewed and refreshed, too.

And because the treatment is a certified USDA bio-based preferred product, he adds that homeowners don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals damaging landscaping or the exterior of their homes. It is designed to be safe around people, pets and plants.

Preservation Over Replacement

Nathan’s interest in roof restoration may have begun with the lure of sustainability, but the economics are equally compelling. A Roof Maxx treatment can cost as much as 80% less than replacing an entire roof, while adding years of useful life.

“The company has restored more than 100 million square feet of roofing nationwide, which is a significant track record of success,” he says.

Before recommending treatment, Nathan conducts a thorough roof inspection. Not every roof qualifies and he tells the customer if theirs is a no-go.

For roofs that are good candidates, he makes any necessary minor repairs and gently washes shingles with a bleach-free solution. He waits a day so it can properly dry and then comes back for the application, which only takes a few hours.

Another plus for homeowners is that they deal with Nathan every step of the way, from the initial call and inspection to the final walk-through.

“I’ve found that communication and accountability are things people really value nowadays,” he says. “People feel good about preserving what they have whenever they can and so do I.”

As summer gives way to fall, Nathan says homeowners who have been thinking about home improvement projects should put their roof on the list.

“Waiting too long can turn a maintenance situation into a costly replacement,” he says. “I’m booking jobs into October and November.”

Roof Maxx of Wadsworth

330-636-1190

RoofMaxx.com