Can a spray really save your aging roof — or is it just delaying the inevitable?
If you've lived in the Atlanta area long enough, you’ve probably seen the ads.
“Extend the life of your roof!”
“Restore flexibility to old shingles!”
These are the promises behind Roof Maxx — a spray-on treatment that claims to give tired asphalt shingles a second chance. But does it actually work? Or is it just a shiny shortcut to avoid the real cost of replacing your roof?
One local consumer asked TrustDALE the exact question other homeowners have likely also wondered: “What do you know about Roof Maxx?”
We did the research. We’ll tell you what we found, and what you should know before deciding whether Roof Maxx is right for your aging roof.
What Is Roof Maxx, Anyway?
Roof Maxx is a product made from a soybean oil-based solution. According to the company, when applied to asphalt shingles, the treatment restores lost flexibility and moisture — kind of like applying lotion to dry, cracking skin.
In theory, that flexibility helps prevent shingles from becoming brittle and breaking apart. The company claims a single application can extend the life of a roof by up to 15 years. They even boast that their application can cost 80% less than a full roof replacement.
Sounds pretty good, right? We thought so too.
That’s why we “secret shopped” Roof Maxx to determine the truth behind these claims. Below you will find a copy of the real quote provided to our undercover homeowner. The total? $8,380.
The tech even jotted down the “average” cost of a full replacement for the homeowner’s roof to prove the value of Roof Maxx’s product. According to the tech, a “cheap” replacement for the homeowner’s roof would cost about $15,000, a mid-grade replacement would run almost $23,000, and a top-of-the-line replacement would come out to almost $30,000.
Compared to a little over $8,000, choosing the Roof Maxx application sounds like a no-brainer.
But then we had the homeowner get a quote for a full roof replacement by a TrustDALE certified roofing company. And when they received the final price, it was a bit different than what the Roof Maxx tech told the homeowner.
For this particular homeowner, the cost for a brand new roof was just 40% more expensive than a Roof Maxx application – a far cry from their claim of an 80% difference.
When a Roof Treatment Makes Sense — and When It Doesn’t
To be fair, there are situations where a roof spray treatment would provide a little extra time. Maybe your shingles are in decent shape overall but just starting to show signs of wear. Maybe you’re trying to squeeze a few more years out of the roof before selling your home.
But if your roof is already showing clear signs of damage — curling shingles, leaks, soft spots, missing granules — adding a layer of soybean oil isn’t going to solve the real problem.
To put it bluntly, if you think your roof needs to be replaced, skip the spray.
That advice reflects what most roofing experts agree on: stopgap solutions often cost more in the long run if they delay necessary repairs.
How Do You Know If You Actually Need a New Roof?
Here’s where things get tricky. It can be hard for homeowners to know whether a roof needs simple maintenance, a temporary treatment, or full replacement.
That’s why it’s critical to get an honest inspection from a trusted professional — not someone trying to sell you a quick fix.
A reputable roofer will:
- Inspect your roof for structural damage
- Look for signs of moisture intrusion
- Check shingle integrity beyond just surface appearance
- Provide a clear recommendation — repair, restore, or replace
Pro Tip: Never rely solely on a company that sells a specific product (like Roof Maxx) for an unbiased opinion. Seek out a certified roofing expert who offers all options, not just one solution.
The Bottom Line: Quick Fix or Smart Investment?
If your roof is relatively new and just needs a little love, Roof Maxx might provide temporary benefits. But for aging or damaged roofs, it’s often just a band-aid on a bigger issue.
Your roof protects everything — and everyone — under it. Treat it like the investment it is.
Not sure where to start? Find a TrustDALE Certified Roofer near you at TrustDALE.com and get an expert estimate you can trust.
Final Takeaways for Homeowners
- Roof Maxx may be a great temporary treatment — but it isn't a replacement for a new roof.
- Always get an unbiased roof inspection before committing to any spray treatment.
- Trust experience over marketing claims.
After all, when it comes to your roof, it’s not just about saving money today — it’s about protecting your home tomorrow.
