Getting the perfect roof for your roofing project is a critical investment decision. But how do you know that composite shingle is your best bet among the numerous options you have?
We know many homeowners will always reach that point where they aren’t sure what roofing material will be ideal for their project. That’s why we’re here to educate you. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about composite roofing, including its pros and cons.
By the time you’re done reading this piece, you’ll know if composite shingle is the one for you.
What Are Composite Shingles?
Composite roofing shingles are a roofing material made from combining different materials, including plastic and rubber. Many people also refer to them as synthetic shingles. Manufacturers design this roofing material to imitate materials like slate, clay tiles, or wood shingles. They are resistant to fire and are durable and affordable roofing materials.
6 Types of Synthetic Roof Shingles
Asphalt Composite Shingles
Asphalt composite shingles are popular in the US. They comprise a fiberglass mat with granules and an asphalt coating that protects them from UV rays and gives them some color.
This type of synthetic shingle is available in different styles, including architectural, three-tab, and premium designs. This gives you options for your home’s aesthetic and protection. Compared to the other available composite roofing options, asphalt composite shingles are affordable. They are also lightweight, resistant to harsh weather, and come with about 20-year warranties. Installing them is also easy. Additionally, they are ideal for different climates and architectural designs.
Synthetic Cedar Shakes
Synthetic cedar shakes mimic the natural rustic features of cedar shakes, down to the varieties of color and grain patterns. They are usually made of a mixture of rubber and plastic. They have zero tendency to rot or be attacked by insects or mold growth, unlike natural cedar shakes. In addition, they are resistant to fire, as many synthetic cedar shakes have a fire rating of Class A.
Composite cedar shakes are a low-maintenance type of synthetic shingle. Unlike natural cedar shakes, they do not require regular treatments. They are also resistant to disintegration and can last for as long as 50 years. Composite cedar shakes are available in different colors and designs.
Synthetic Slate Shingles
Synthetic slate shingles are made of plastic and composite materials, such as rubber. They imitate the look of natural slate with detailed textures and colors. However, they are the cheaper and lighter version.
In comparison to natural slate, synthetic slates are more manageable. They are easier to install and handle. Their primary advantage over natural slate is their resistance to chipping, cracking, and other problems a homeowner with a slate roof can encounter. This makes them last long. With adequate maintenance, they can last for about 40–50 years.
Synthetic slate shingles are also friendly to the environment and are usually made from recycled materials.
Polymer Synthetic Shingles
Polymer composite shingles are made up of polymers that are high-grade, making them a highly durable roofing material. They are resistant to high winds and UV radiation, and when properly maintained, they can last up to 50 years.
Manufacturers can design synthetic polymer shingles in a variety of colors and designs to resemble traditional roofing materials. These shingles are lighter than some roofing materials, like slate. So they are easier to move and install. They could also help improve your home’s energy efficiency because some of them are made to reflect heat.
Metal Composite Shingles
Metal composite shingles, like other synthetic shingles, mimic the look of traditional roofs, such as wood and slate. They are a perfect blend of metal’s durability and strength and the flexibility of synthetic materials.
They are available in various colors and designs and are much easier to install than actual metal shingles. Metal composite shingles are also resistant to intense weather and can last up to 50 years or more. They are also low-maintenance and are not prone to corrosion or rust.
Rubber Composite Shingles
Rubber composite shingles are an environmentally friendly roofing material made from recycled rubber, especially abandoned tires, reducing landfill waste. They are affordable, resistant to harsh weather, and highly durable. They can function for 30–50 years before there’s a reason for replacement.
This type of composite shingle is also resistant to impact-induced damage and cracking. It is energy efficient and helps lower cooling expenses by reflecting heat from the sun.
Composite rubber shingles are also good sound insulators.
Pros of Composite Shingles
Pros
- Durable: Composite shingles have features that help them resist extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow, rain, hail, and severe sunlight. They are also not susceptible to rot, insect damage, or mold.
- Long-lasting: Composite shingles are popular for their ability to last long. When you install and maintain them properly, a synthetic roof can last more than 30 years, depending on your purchase type.
- Cost-effective: One of synthetic shingles’ key benefits is their affordability. They are budget-friendly alternatives to materials like tiles and slates, which are on the expensive side. They basically give you an identical aesthetic allure at a cheaper price.
- Low-maintenance: Maintenance of composite shingles usually requires occasional cleaning and periodic maintenance. This is less burdensome than maintaining some other roofing options.
- Ease of installation: These shingles are lightweight. Hence, installing them is easier and faster than installing heavier materials, making the cost of installation cheaper.
- Offers variety: Composite shingles offer homeowners options to choose from. They are available in different designs and colors, so whether your preference is traditional or contemporary, there’s something for everyone.
- Eco-friendly: There are many composite shingles from recycled materials. Such shingles are safe for the environment. Some can minimize your cooling and heating costs, depending on the brand.
Cons
- Lifespan: Although composite shingles are long-lasting and durable, they still have a lifespan shorter than that of some materials. They have an average lifespan of 25 years, while premium materials like slate last more than a hundred years.
- Tendency to fade: Due to prolonged exposure to UV rays, composite shingles may lose their original color over time. This action can reduce your roof’s curb appeal. However, you don’t have to worry about the roof’s functionality because it won’t affect it.
- Limited resale value: The resale value for properties with composite shingle roofs is usually low compared to other roofing materials with initial high investment costs.
- Sustainability: Although manufacturers use recycled materials to make synthetic shingles, their sustainability is limited. Materials like wood and clay are more eco-friendly and sustainable.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Composite Shingles
Before choosing a synthetic shingle that best suits your home, you have to consider a couple of factors, which include local climate conditions, budget, and style.
Below are some key things to consider before investing in a composite shingle:
- Your budget: Your budget is the first thing you should consider. Synthetic shingles have varying prices, but they are generally affordable. Once you have a budget, you can choose any options that fall within the range, provided they meet most of your requirements.
- Aesthetic preferences: What’s your vision for your home’s appearance? Consider the style you’d want for your home and go for it if it falls within your budget. For a classic look, synthetic asphalt shingles would be your best bet. If what you want is a more sophisticated look, synthetic cedar shakes or slate would be ideal.
- Local climate conditions: Living in an area with a tendency to experience wildfires would require that you choose a synthetic roof with a top fire rating. For areas that experience intense rainfall, wind, and rainfall, synthetic options resistant to impact are the most suitable.
- Warranty options: The various composite shingles have different warranty conditions and durations. Hence, it is vital that you examine the available options and choose the synthetic shingle with the best offer.
Conclusion
Composite roof shingles are a versatile roofing choice. They offer options for durable and visually appealing roofing solutions for your property. Investing in one will give you an affordable, long-lasting solution to your dilemma. When appropriately installed, synthetic shingles can beautify and protect your home from the elements for several decades, leaving you with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new synthetic shingle roof cost?
The cost of a synthetic shingle is dependent on various factors. However, it typically costs about $12.00–$20.00 per square foot. However, if you include upgrades such as copper flashing, the price would incline towards the higher price range.
How long does a composite shingle roof last?
Composite shingles tend to have a longer lifespan than asphalt. Depending on how well you install and maintain them, they can last for as long as 40 to 50 years.
