THE SCIENCE
The soy-based treatment, explained
No secret sauce claims. The product is SoyLei's APEX-1132, a patented shingle preservation treatment. Here's what it is, what the testing shows, and what it can't do.
How it works
Asphalt shingles stiffen as their lighter compounds bake out in the sun. APEX-1132 is a soy-based formula engineered to be chemically attracted to aged asphalt. Sprayed on, it absorbs into the shingle and re-disperses the compounds that keep asphalt flexible. It's not a coating and not a sealant; nothing sits on top of the shingle when it's done.
What SoyLei's testing shows
50%
Up to 50% better granule retention, per third-party testing.
68%
Reduction in flame spread in fire testing.
~6 yrs
Added roof life per application in SoyLei's assessment, reapplied about every 5 years.
Performance figures come from SoyLei lab and third-party testing of APEX-1132. Results vary by roof age and condition. That is one more reason we inspect before we recommend anything.
Testing also measured flexibility close to new shingles and resistance to deformation in extreme temperatures and hail. Treated shingles may also resist the discoloration that makes aging roofs look tired.
What it can't do
- It doesn't stop leaks. Leaks need repair work before any treatment.
- It doesn't repair damage: cracked, missing, or storm-torn shingles stay damaged.
- It can't save a roof that's brittle through the mat. That's a replacement conversation.
That's why the inspection gates everything. Applied to the right roof at the right time, the treatment may restore flexibility and can extend roof life. Applied to the wrong roof, it's wasted money, and we'd rather lose the job than waste yours.
INSIDE THE SHINGLE
The three states of an asphalt shingle
Here's the whole idea in one picture: a cross-section of an asphalt shingle at three points in its life. The treatment targets the middle state, before the shingle is too far gone.
STATE 1
New shingle
Fresh asphalt is rich in oils. The shingle bends in wind, grips its granules, and sheds weather the way it was built to.
STATE 2
Aged shingle
Sun and heat bake the oils out. The shingle stiffens, granules wash into the gutters, and micro-cracks open. Most Hampton Roads roofs get here years early.
STATE 3
Treated shingle
The soy-based treatment absorbs into the asphalt and re-disperses the compounds that keep it supple. Flexibility may be restored and roof life can be extended.
Performance figures come from SoyLei lab and third-party testing of APEX-1132. Results vary by roof age and condition. That is one more reason we inspect before we recommend anything.
QUESTIONS
Common questions
Is APEX-1132 safe around kids, pets, and gardens?
SoyLei describes it as environmentally and family friendly with no odors. We still protect landscaping and keep the site controlled during application, the same way we'd treat our own yard.
Why did you pick SoyLei instead of a franchise product?
Because we got to pick. As an independent dealer we chose the product on its testing, not on a franchise contract. Roof first, products second. If the evidence changes, our product can too.
Want to know what it would do for your roof?
The free inspection tells us how much life your shingles have to work with.