Best Eco-Friendly Shingles: Mike Holmes Jr. on Atlas Roofing Technology When you’re building your forever home, every decision matters—especially what goes on your roof. I am on a journey...
Why Mike Holmes Jr. Chose Smog-Reducing Atlas Shingles for His Home
By Mike Holmes Jr
Mike’s Advice / Buying & Selling Your Home
Wednesday, July 1st, 2026 @ 9:45am
Best Eco-Friendly Shingles: Mike Holmes Jr. on Atlas Roofing Technology
When you’re building your forever home, every decision matters—especially what goes on your roof. I am on a journey to build my own dream house, and product selection was very important for me. When it came to picking my asphalt shingles, I did a lot of research. For me, it wasn’t just about curb appeal or cost. It was about building smarter, building greener, and building to last. That’s why I turned to advanced roofing technology from 3M™—including smog-reducing shingles.
The shingles I chose are Atlas Pinnacle Impact, and here are the features that were important to me:
- 3M™ Smog-Reducing Granules
- Scotchgard™ Protector by 3M™ (to protect against black streaks caused by algae)
- Class 3 impact resistant (capable of withstanding severe hail and extreme weather conditions)
- Guard against winds up to 130 mph
The Environmental Benefits: Reducing Smog Right from Your Roof
Imagine a roof that doesn’t just protect your home, but actually help remove smog pollution from the air we breathe. That’s exactly what these 3M™ Smog-Reducing Granules do.
How Do Smog Reducing Shingles Work?
The granules are designed to transform nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases —one of the main contributors to smog. When activated by the sun, these shingles have the capacity to reduce smog similar to 2 to 3 trees—and convert them into harmless, water-soluble ions that wash away with rain. It’s harnessing the power of the sun to improve air quality.
For me, that kind of innovation just made sense. If you’re investing in a home you plan to live in long-term, why wouldn’t you choose materials that are durable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible?
But the benefits don’t stop there.
When activated by the sun, these shingles have the capacity to reduce smog similar to 2 to 3 trees
How 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector Protects My Roof
Black streaks caused by algae are more than an eyesore—they’re signs of deterioration. High-tech shingles with Scotchgard™ Protector by 3M™ or copper-infused granules that inhibit algae growth, help prevent black streaks from getting established. When black algae streaks can’t get established, your roof maintains a clean appearance preserving the beauty of your home.
These combined technologies mean MY roof is fighting smog pollution and protecting against algae streaks—simultaneously. That’s why the Atlas Designer shingles, shingles featuring Scotchgard™ Protector were my pick for my own house.

TOP SHOT: BEFORE WITH BLACK STREAKS. BOTTOM SHOT: AFTER ROOF REPLACEMENT.
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The Importance of Choosing the Right Asphalt Shingles
Here’s the truth: replace a roof is expensive. In my case, I am building my dream home from scratch so it is an opportunity to put your roof to work for you. I understand that choosing high-quality, technologically advanced materials upfront can mean a roof that protects your home, looks good, and can work for you.
It’s about thinking beyond the short term. A roof isn’t just a layer of protection—it’s a system that can impact your home’s energy efficiency, aesthetics, and improve air quality and to me that was the right choice.
To find out more about these game-changing asphalt shingles, watch the full Holmes on Homes podcast episode here:
Listen to the Holmes on Homes Podcast on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music – 🎙️
About Mike Holmes Jr:
Mike Holmes Jr. is a skilled contractor, television host, and advocate for building better, more sustainable homes. Following in the footsteps of his father, Mike Holmes, he has built a reputation for combining practical construction knowledge with a strong focus on quality craftsmanship and energy efficiency. Known for his work on shows like Holmes + Holmes and Holmes Family Rescue, Mike Jr. brings a modern perspective to the trades, often emphasizing innovation, proper training, and the importance of doing the job right the first time. Beyond television, he’s also passionate about encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in skilled trades, helping to raise standards across the industry.
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