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IKO Shingles | Pros & Cons

IKO Shingles | Pros & Cons

The popularity of IKO shingles has exploded in recent years. They are becoming more and more popular because they come with a number of different benefits for homeowners.

This blog post will take a look at three pros and three cons to these roofing options, so that you can make an educated decision about whether or not they are right for your needs!

IKO Shingles

The volume of sales for KIWA tiles is modest in the United States, even though they are a renowned brand from Canada. IKO shingles are sold to roofers through distributors.

Some IKO shingles are not well-rated because of the failures in organic shingles.

The organic-base mat used in shingles had a tendency to become brittle, and the problem was affecting many other brands. IKO was the target of a class action lawsuit in Canada and the US.

IKO, the company that makes defective shingles, is now attempting to improve their roof shingle formulation. A review of IKO shingles in the past few years has been more favorable.

It is important to mention that lawsuits appear in search results for IKO shingles. The company who installed defective shingles is hated by the homeowners.

The reviews and ratings of this brand are about average, with some being higher than others.

IKO Shingles | Pros & Cons

Are IKO Shingles the Right Choice?

The article discusses how to get a well-rounded view of any shingle brand.

Pros of IKO Shingles

This is a list of advantages from various perspectives. It is suggested that IKO products are the best to use when roofing.

1. Integrated Roof Accessories – IKO allows you to choose from a variety of integrated roofs accessories. These include solar panels, skylights and more.

They can also be used as an insulation system for the roof itself. This is especially important in climates where ice dams are common during winter months!

It’s no wonder that IKO shingles have been growing increasingly. A house is built with multiple parts that work together to keep it protected from the elements.

IKO’s PROFORMAX system is a multilayered roofing accessory that starts from the outer edges of the roof deck and works its way up.

IKO recommended accessories are designed to address some areas of vulnerability in a roof.

2. Protecting your deck and furniture from the elements – Many areas require a shingled roof with an ice and water protection zone to prevent water from leaking into the home. Check building codes to determine what is needed.

IKO recommends protection for the roof deck at eaves, rakes, hips, valleys and around protrusions.

GoldShield™ is a premium Ice & Water membrane that forms a seal around the nail or fastener, while ArmourGard™ is made up of modified bitumen and can be applied under shingled roofs.

StormShield® is a product that will protect your roof from ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Why Are Shingles So Important?

Shingles are the most important part of your roof. They are what holds up all the other layers, so it is critical that they be strong and durable to protect you from any weather related damage or leaks!

The average lifespan of a shingle is 20 years, so they are one of the parts of your roof that will typically have to be re-shingled the most often.

Shingles are incredibly resistant to water damage and usually leak detection can be spotty because these leaks are hidden by the other layers in the roof.

It’s not until the damage spreads past the shingles that it becomes visible.

If water is able to penetrate the roof deck, the sheathing, rafters, studs and plywood are all at risk of being damaged by rot or mold.

If you have a history of roof leaks after strong storms or heavy snowfalls it might be time for a roof replacement.

Your shingles can last up to 20 years, but that doesn’t mean they are not at risk of being damaged or exposed to water during that time.

The average roof gets 6-12 inches of rain per year! That means over the course of a few decades your shingles could get 43-72 inches of water on them!

What are Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof used today.

They come in a variety of colors and styles, from simple light weight three tab shingles to heavier more durable architectural style shingles that have ridges and thicker granules for longer lasting protection from the sun.

Shingles lay across your roof overlapping each other. They have a water resistant coating on the bottom of each shingle that protects them from leaking, and their weight holds them down securely.

The top of the shingles are covered in a granular textured layer to protect your roof from harmful UV rays so they last longer.

How Long Will Shingles Last?

Shingles are incredibly weather resistant but will only last about 20-25 years.

This means that they will need to be replaced on average every 5-7 years or sooner if you have a history of high wind, heavy snow or frequent storms that damage your roof.

When Should I Replace My Shingles?

The best time to replace your shingles is right before the first signs of damage start showing up on them.

Roof leaks can be difficult to detect and can quickly spread, so it’s best to prevent damage by looking for these warning signs:

  • Cracked or curling shingles; this is a sign that they are starting to break down and should be replaced soon.
  • Missing granules; the protective granules on your shingles wear down over time and should be replaced as soon as you notice this happening.
  • Cracked or damaged flashing; flashing is metal used to cover up nail heads or seams where two different elements meet like a wall and the roof.
    • These areas are critical for waterproofing and should be repaired immediately if damaged.
  • Torn or wrinkled shingles; if your shingles are curling up, bubbling, tearing or wrinkled it’s a sign that they have been exposed to water and should be replaced as soon as possible

Missing nails/nail heads; nails hold your roof together and allow it to stand upright. If you notice any nails are missing, it’s important to replace them right away.

It can also be a sign that your roof is shifting position and could lead to leaks if you don’t fix it soon

If you live in an area with high winds or heavy snowfall, it’s best to inspect your roof often for any damage.

Of course this kind of weather will put a lot of strain on your roof, but it also means that any damage from storms or heavy snow is more likely to go unnoticed until the problem spreads.

Inspecting Your Roof

Inspecting your roof can be difficult, especially if you’re not comfortable being up high off the ground.

However, periodically checking for weak spots or damage is important to keeping your roof in good condition and preventing leaks.

Here are some tips for inspecting the exterior of your roof:

Walk around your house on the ground looking for any loose or warped shingles.

If you find any, make note of their location so you can check them while up on the roof. Search out any exposed nails or nail heads and replace them.

Even if your roof is in good condition, it’s a good idea to inspect around your chimney to ensure it’s correctly sealed so that smoke can’t enter the attic area.

The same goes for any skylights you have on your roof. You’ll want to check these areas for damage and make sure they’re properly sealed.

Walking on the roof of your house can be dangerous, so make sure you have someone on the ground to help you if necessary.

If you do think your roof is damaged or leaking, call a professional right away to inspect it and get an estimate on how much it will cost to fix.

What are Roofing Synthetic Underlayments?

A synthetic underlayment, also known as an ice and water shield, is a layer of material placed on top of a roof deck. This helps protect the roof from damage due to water intrusion.

Synthetic underlayments are relatively new to the market and have been replacing asphalt felt paper as a way to weatherproof rooftops.

There are several different types of synthetic underlayments on the market. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.

Types of Roofing Synthetic Underlayments

There are four main types of synthetic underlayment used as an ice and water shield: EPDM, Hypalon, PVC, and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin).

EPDM is made from ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber.

It is a homopolymer in which the polymerization is done with a metal-cored electrical resistance coil in an oxygen-free environment with rubber powder as the raw material.

EPDM has good compatibility to most roofing systems, weathers well, and has excellent tear resistance. It is sold as a solid material or in a self-adhesive roll form.

Hypalon is made from synthetic rubber with chlorine atoms replacing some of the hydrogen atoms in the polymer backbone.

The result is that Hypalon has excellent weatherability and UV stability and resists solvents and gasoline better than other types of rubber.

Because it is more expensive, Hypalon is generally used in specialized applications that require its unique properties.

PVC underlayment has the highest rate of UV resistance among synthetic underlayments but also has lower tear strength and weatherability compared with EPDM or TPO.

PVC comes in roll form, partially pre-assembled into rolls that are 6 to 12 feet wide.

TPO underlayment is made from ethylene propylene monomer with a crystalline structure.

It is the second most abrasion resistant synthetic underlayment on the market after Hypalon, but does not have good tear strength or UV resistance.


Comparing the Advantages and Disadvantages of Synthetic Underlayments

EPDM and TPO underlayment have a high tear resistance, which makes them resistant to damage from wind uplift or shingle granules.

They also resist water penetration better than other types of synthetic underlayments.

These products are also very easy to work with and install on the roof deck, especially in warmer weather.

EPDM has an average cost of $0.25 per square foot installed while TPO costs $0.35 per square foot, both including extras such as fasteners or self-adhesive strips.

As for disadvantages, these materials are not very resistant to UV degradation.

They also do not perform well in cold weather or areas that receive a lot of snow or ice because the material may be torn off the roof by heavy loads of snow and ice.

Hypalon synthetic underlayment is known for its tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and resistance to gasoline and solvents. It also resists damage from UV rays and weathers well in many environments.

Hypalon costs $0.45 per square foot installed, making it the most expensive underlayment on the market.

PVC is a very cost effective synthetic underlayment that is resistant to tearing when expanded but is also resistant to damage from UV rays.

PVC is flexible, allowing it to easily conform to the roof deck.

However, it isn’t as abrasion-resistant as EPDM or TPO and does not perform well in cold weather or areas that receive a lot of snow or ice because the material may be torn off the roof by heavy loads of snow and ice.

TPO is a flexible, non-abrasive underlayment that resists tear when it is in an expanded state. It’s also resistant to damage from UV rays and many chemicals, but not gasoline or solvents.

TPO has the lowest tear resistance of all the synthetic underlayments on the market.

TPO costs $0.65 per square foot installed, making it about the same price as PVC underlayment. However, TPO has a much higher tear strength compared with PVC.

In summary, EPDM and TPO are the best synthetic underlayments on the market because they have both high tear resistance and UV resistance.

The disadvantages of these products are that they do not preform well in cold weather and areas with lots of snow or ice.

Hypalon has high tear strength and resists solvents and gasoline but is the most expensive underlayment.

PVC is inexpensive, flexible, and has excellent UV resistance but doesn’t have as much tear strength as EPDM or TPO.

Finally, TPO has the high tear strength of Hypalon but does not resist solvents or gasoline. It also doesn’t have as much UV resistance as EPDM or PVC.

Why Synthetic Underlayments are Best to Use

Synthetic underlayments are the best option for protecting your roof because they can handle ice dams and snow loads that tear traditional felt materials.

If you install them underground, all types of synthetic underlayments also provide protection against moisture seeping into the basement or foundation of your home.

Asphalt felt is not recommended to use as an underlayment and may contribute to the deterioration of your roof. Felt is also not flexible enough to handle snow loads or ice dams, which can tear sections of felt right off the roof.

If you choose asphalt shingles as your roofing material, it’s best to use an adhesive with an underlayment such as a synthetic one.

If you choose metal, slate, or tile roofing materials, they can be used without an underlayment.

The only time when a synthetic underlayment is not recommended for use with your roof is if your shingles are fire-proof. This type of roof is safe to use without any additional protection underneath it.

What are Roofing Synthetic Underlayments

Roofing synthetic underlayment is a material used as a secondary layer of protection for the roof on top of the main layer (i.e. asphalt shingles).

Underlayments can be made from rubber, plastic or sand and help to prevent damage to the roof through insulation, water resistance, and slip prevention.

Common uses of synthetic underlayments include providing extra insulation for the home, protection against uv rays while also acting as an additional waterproofing layer to prevent leaks in the roof system.

  • RoofGard-Cool Grey™ is a synthetic material that provides protection between the deck and shingles.
  • This synthetic, non-breathable material is a slip resistant surface.
  • Stormtite™ is a non-breathable synthetic underlayment that can be used on roofs to protect them.
  • IKO recommends the use of roof starter shingles with first course of shingles.
  • Double-sided starter rolls that use high-strength sealant are a newer option for roof shingles.
  • When installing shingles, use Leading Edge Plus™ or EdgeSeal™ starter shingles at eaves and rakes for extra protection.

What are Ridge Cap Shingles

A ridge cap shingle is a type of asphalt shingle that is installed at the top edge of a roof, typically above a gable or hips.

Like other types of asphalt shingles, they feature a mineral surfaced facing with an organic substrate for fire protection and enhanced durability.

IKO’s specially designed ridge cap shingles are an alternative to using cut-up roof shingles.

The precut cap shingles include pre-tapered headlamps and add depth, texture, and dimension to a roofline.

The above listed product components and accessories are compatible with most IKO shingle lines, but there is one exception: the ridge cap.

IKO shingles must be installed with at least 3 IKO PROFORMAX Integrated Roofing Accessories to be covered under warranty.

The use of the manufacturer recommended, compatible accessories helps a new roof last longer.

Shingle manufacturers produce several varieties of this type of shingle, which are usually identified by the ridge cap’s slope.

A low-profile ridge cap is installed at a 3/4 pitch or flatter, while an 18/12 or 24/12 pitched roof requires a steep-slope ridge cap for proper installation.

A standard single layer ridge cap shingle measures up to 6.5 ft in length and 15 in wide.

Additional ventilation channels enable a ridge cap to resist wind uplift when installed over a ridge that’s at least 1-1/2 from the top of the roof deck.

Some manufacturers also offer dual-vent styles that add greater protection for high wind areas or mountain regions.

A double layer shingle with a mineral surfaced facing and an organic substrate can be used as a ridge cap.

However, this style is typically installed with two layers of shingles over the entire roof for added durability and protection from wind uplift.

Many asphalt shingle manufacturers also offer steep-slope protective underlayment that can be used in lieu of a standard ridge cap shingle.

Like standard ridge caps, these products provide a protective layer that resists wind uplift and minimizes the potential of shingles tearing off during high winds.

While asphalt is one of the most common materials used for a roof’s covering, it isn’t fire resistant.

Manufacturers often place mineral granules on both sides of the organic substrate to improve its flame resistance, but this will reduce overall shingle life.

Because of these features, ridge cap shingles are most commonly installed on the upper edge of roofs in climates where fire is a concern.

However, many roofers also use them as an alternative to installing with modified bitumen underlayment.

This provides better protection from wind uplift and a reduced likelihood of shingles tearing off during high winds.

Asphalt shingles can be used as ridge caps, but this is typically only done with those made from modified bitumen or other material that isn’t as durable as standard asphalt shingles.

If you live in an area that sees heavy snow or high winds, it’s best to use asphalt shingles that are specifically designed for protective applications.

What are the benefits of using ridge cap shingles?

They’re common in warmer climates where fire is a concern.

They’re also used as an alternative to installing with modified bitumen underlayment. Prevent wind uplift and reduce the likelihood of shingles tearing off during high winds.

What are the disadvantages?

Since they’re only used in certain areas, there’s a smaller market for these types of shingles.

They also don’t perform quite as well as asphalt shingles that are specifically designed to resist wind uplift and fire.

What are the alternatives?

Manufacturers often produce steep-slope protective underlayment that can be used in place of a standard ridge cap shingle. Some asphalt shingles manufacturers also offer double layer shingles with additional fire protection and wind resistance.

How do I pick a ridge cap shingle?

You should select one that’s specifically designed to handle high winds and fire.

Check the product information for UL Class A or UL Class C ratings, which indicate its resistance against wind uplift and fire penetration respectively.

What are some other considerations?

If you’re using steep-slope protective underlayment instead of a standard ridge cap shingle, remember that these products typically require two layers of shingles over the entire roof for added durability and protection from wind uplift.

They can also be more difficult to install than standard ridge cap shingles.

Is fire resistance really important in my area?


Ridge cap shingles ensure a watertight seal and improve the aesthetics of roofs in high-wind regions.

If you live in an area with high winds and low temperatures, ridge cap shingles can also increase your roof’s lifespan by protecting it from the elements.

Benefits of Using Synthetic Roofing Underlayments

Roofs that use synthetic underlayments tend to last longer and protect the overall integrity of the home.

All roofs need some sort of protection from the elements in order to prevent water damage and mold growth.

Most shingle roofs can get by with just having an ice shield which is a material that has been treated for extreme weather conditions.

However, synthetic underlays are more than just ice shields.

They include a high-tech polymer which is capable of protecting the shingles from active water damage and also works with asphalt to resist heat.

Resistant to weather conditions such as ice, sleet, snow and hail, roofing underlayments will prevent any type of natural disaster from breaking through your roof.

Why are Roofing Underlayments Necessary?

While many roofs are fixed with only the bottom layer of shingles, there are some situations where an additional underlayment is necessary in order to protect your house.

There are several different reasons that may require underlays on the roof such as wind damage, extreme weather conditions and even to prevent mold build-up.

The most common of these may be the water resistance aspect of underlayments.

One of the main causes for leaks is due to ice dams on roofs which can easily tear up asphalt shingles and cause leaks in your home.

Installation of an underlayment that is resistant to water can prevent ice dams by acting as insulation from the heat that may cause them.

In addition, underlays will also add a secondary layer of protection against any weather related elements on top of your shingles.

In colder climates where winter is brutal and snow piles up easily, synthetic underlays will act as an additional layer of insulation which can prevent ice dams and help the roof stay warm enough to keep snow off it.

What are Roofing Underlayments Made From?

Most underlayment materials come in rolls like heavy-duty tarp or plastic sheeting. The most common synthetic material used is polyethylene that comes in rolls of 400 square feet.

There is also the option to use rubberized materials that are designed for roofing rather than water-proof tarps or sheeting.

It’s important to note, however, that your underlayment should not protect you from leaks outside of your home.

If rain gets in through the walls and seeps through your roof, the underlayment will not be able to stop it.

Since synthetic underlayments are resistant to water damage and mold growth, they can be a great addition to your home’s protection from irregular weather patterns or winter storms.

Overall Information on Ridge Cap Shingles

Contractors can get training and certifications to become roofers through IKO ROOFPRO.

A contractor must also be licensed and insured, with at least two years of experience in the field, to work as an IKO.

IKO shingles are durable and last for years without any major problems.

IKO Industries has an A+ rating with the US Better Business Bureau. IKO has a solid warranty and the top is easier to qualify for than other brands.