WHAT IT IS

During the early 2000s, Atlas Chalet shingles were one of the most popular roofing materials. A three-tab shingle designed to look like an architectural shingle, Atlas Chalet shingles allowed homeowners to achieved the “3-D” effect for much less than the cost of real architectural shingles. According to a report by Fox 5 investigative reporter Randy Travis, roughly 100,000 homes in Georgia were built using Atlas Chalet shingles.

WHY IT MATTERS

Although visually attractive, Atlas Chalet shingles lacked the necessary durability found in other roofing materials. Class-action lawsuits have been filed against the company, with prosecutors claiming that the shingles are easily damaged by moisture and that they contain gas bubbles that cause them to expand and crack in high temperatures.

HOW to PROCEED

Atlas Roofing never issued a recall, but discontinued its defective shingles in 2010, making it nearly impossible to repair or replace Chalet shingles. Because of this, even one damaged shingle may require full roof replacement. Unfortunately, many insurance companies will balk at replacing an entire roof because of a few damaged shingles -- potentially causing more confusion and expenses for home owners. Having Atlas Chalet shingles on your roof doesn’t automatically mean your roof is defective. It is possible your shingles are not defective.If you don’t see any clear signs of leaking or damage inside your home or on the roof, you likely don’t have to worry about the shingles. If you’re considering buying a home built in the early 2000s, be sure that your home inspector carefully examines the roof. If the home has an Atlas Chalet roof, the inspector will need to evaluate the roof for further damage.