Highlander® AR can make sense when a homeowner wants Malarkey’s rubberized asphalt technology in a value-oriented architectural shingle. The right decision still depends on roof geometry, desired color, exposure, budget, warranty package and the complete roof-system specification.
Highlander® AR performance snapshot
- NEX® Polymer Modified (Rubberized) Asphalt core
- Class 3 hail impact rating
- Architectural profile with algae-resistant granules
- Smog-reducing granules and upcycled rubber/plastic content
Manufacturer terminology: Malarkey calls the asphalt technology in this shingle NEX® Polymer Modified (Rubberized) Asphalt. “Poly-mod” is a common shorthand for polymer-modified asphalt, but the official product name and current technical documents should control the specification.
What the impact rating means—and what it does not
Class 3 hail impact rating is one useful comparison point. Impact testing is not a promise that a roof cannot be damaged by hail, wind-blown debris or severe weather. It is a laboratory classification that helps distinguish product performance. Installation quality, deck condition, flashing, underlayment, fastening and the rest of the roof system remain essential.
Appearance and curb appeal
Highlander® AR is a architectural shingle. Color should be reviewed in the context of brick, siding, stone, trim, gutters and neighborhood architecture. Malarkey’s online Roof Designer is useful for narrowing choices, but physical samples should be reviewed before ordering because screens and lighting can shift color.
How Faith Home Improvement plans the installation
Our roof proposal should identify tear-off, deck assumptions, selected shingle and accessories, underlayment and water-barrier scope, starter, flashing, penetrations, ventilation, ridge details, cleanup and the process for hidden conditions. The goal is to make the complete roof system understandable before the job begins—not to reduce the project to a shingle name.
Kentuckiana weather considerations
Louisville and Southern Indiana roofs experience heat, freeze-thaw cycles, wind-driven rain, thunderstorms and periodic hail. We consider roof slope, orientation, shade, trees, drainage, attic ventilation and existing details when discussing product fit. A higher impact classification can be valuable, but it should be weighed alongside design, cost and the rest of the assembly.
Compare the other Malarkey lines
Read our Highlander vs. Vista vs. Legacy vs. Windsor comparison.
Manufacturer reference
Review the current product page directly from Malarkey before final selection: Malarkey Highlander® AR official product information. Product names, colors, technical specifications and warranty terms can change, so final proposal documents should use the current manufacturer literature.
Performance features to compare
Malarkey technical data lists this shingle as ASTM D7158 Class H. Class H is often described in roofing literature as a 150 mph wind-resistance test classification, but that test designation is not a 150 mph damage guarantee or a 150 mph manufacturer warranty. Malarkey’s current enhanced wind warranty for this line is up to 130 mph when its requirements are met. Always distinguish laboratory wind classification, building-code design wind speed, and warranty coverage.
For a deeper explanation, read our impact-resistant roofing guide and PolyMod shingle benefits guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does Faith Home Improvement install Highlander® AR shingles?
Faith Home Improvement is planning to offer Highlander® AR as a primary roofing product option in Louisville and Kentuckiana. Final availability, color and system configuration are confirmed during the project proposal.
Is the Malarkey product warranty the same as Faith’s craftsmanship guarantee?
No. Manufacturer product coverage and contractor craftsmanship coverage are separate. The applicable Malarkey warranty document governs manufacturer coverage, while Faith Home Improvement’s written guarantee terms govern qualifying workmanship coverage.
Can Highlander® AR be used on every roof?
Not automatically. Roof slope, decking, ventilation, flashing details, local code requirements, manufacturer installation instructions and product availability all affect the final specification.