Depending on your budget, climate, and how long you expect your roof to hold up there are a number of different options available to you. Before beginning any roof replacement it’s important to discuss with your contractor your specific needs so that you remain satisfied with both the look and the durability of the material for years to come. Synthetic composite roofing is one of the best options on the market today for value as well as it’s toughness. Let’s break down what synthetic composite roofing is and determine of it may be a good option for your next roofing project.
What is composite roofing? By definition, a composite is a combination of several different materials. Composite shingles use a blend of things like fiberglass, asphalt, plastic, wood, and paper to create a product that is strong and flexible. Those materials are blended together with resins, glues, and laminates before being covered in a fine layer of asphalt that protects them from the sun as well as water. Some brands of composite roofing even provide protection from fire and mold.
How Much Does Composite Roofing Cost?
The main thing that attracts homeowners to composite roofing is the affordability. Composite roofing costs far less than slate or shake roofing and can last even longer. On average, and depending on the size of the home composite roofing costs anywhere from $8 – $15 per sf. If you opt for simplistic colors and standard styles the cost will definitely be on the low end. If you want to have more control over the style or choose something custom, then the cost will rise accordingly. Even so, customized composite roofs will still cost far less than other materials.
How Long Does Composite Roofing Last?
Composite roofing is incredibly durable because it relies on several materials working together to create something stronger than any individual materials would have been on their own. A typical shingle, made from slate, wood, or asphalt may last anywhere from 15 – 20 years. On the other hand, many companies who manufacture composite roofing actually offer lifetime guarantees because they believe so strongly in the durability of the material. Of course, the lifespan of your roof is going to depend on how well it is maintained, and luckily with composite roofing, the maintenance is easy and fairly straightforward.
Composite Shingles Advantages:
Outside of the advantages, we have already covered, composite shingles bring a host of benefits to roofs in various climates:
- Composite shingles are durable and can be impact and fire-resistant.
- Composite shingles are a great balance between cost, aesthetics, and value. You can get composite shingles that look like slate, wood, or many other expensive materials.
- Because they are so customizable, it is easy to find composite shingles that match your style of home.
- Composition roof warranties can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, which makes composition shingles a great value in the long run.
- Composite shingles are easy on the budget as they are significantly cheaper than slate, shake, or clay, but don’t sacrifice the beauty as they still look great.
- In some situations, composite can resist cracking and warping better than the original products they are meant to resemble.
Composite Shingles Disadvantages:
Like all construction materials, nothing is perfect. Composite shingles have their issues just like everything else, and they are essential to know before installing or replacing your roof:
- Generally, you can not install composite shingles yourself. They require particular tools that only professional installers have.
- Composite shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles.
- In order to get the best protection, you will need to spend more money to get special finishes that resist moss and mildew in humid climates.
- Composite shingles are vulnerable to wind damage. However, you will only need to replace the damaged shingles instead of replacing the whole roof.
If you have questions about composite roofing, asphalt roofing, or metal roofing for either your residential or commercial property or would if like to schedule a consultation with one of our contractors, give us a call today!
Asphalt Roofing Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, a composite roof can last 20 years; however, most composite shingles can last up to 50 years with the right materials and proper maintenance.
The main difference is that they are made with different materials. Asphalt shingles are made with a paper or fiberglass mat and topped with an asphalt layer. On the other hand, Composite shingles are made with a combination of stronger materials such as slate, laminate, and wood ingredients. The stronger ingredients improve their strength and extend their life expectancy.
