If you like the beauty of organic roofing materials like cedar but dislike the upkeep that goes with them, then you may find composite shingles to be your perfect match. Composite roofing is typically made of asphalt, recycled products, and fiberglass. These materials combine to become a tough material that resists the annoyances of moisture damage, rot, and pests. Composite shingles are often confused with asphalt but is different from it in two distinct ways:
It’s far more durable
It can mimic many roofing materials
Asphalt is a great roofing choice for anyone on a budget but still looking for solid protection for their home, but they come with shorter lifespans and have a limited variety of looks. Composite is made of asphalt and other materials to become a stronger roofing material.
Composite Roofing: Is it right for you?
Before you jump into any home improvement project, you should fully inform yourself on the pros and cons of the materials that are available. You need to carefully consider what your budget allows, your climate, and what maintenance frequency you’re expecting. Composite roofing has much to offer homeowners, but it has both advantages and drawbacks. Here are the material’s pros and cons.
The Pros
Composite shingles aren’t organic, which means that insects don’t like to live in them. You won’t experience as many annoyances from termites or other wood-destroying insects as you would with wooden shingles.
It’s fire-resistant.
The synthetic nature of composite roofs makes them sturdy, even in extreme temperatures. Feel confident that snow, ice, and hot weather aren’t likely to damage your shingles and require repairs.
Composite roofs have the potential for a long life. While lower-grade variations last about 20 years, quality brands can last at least 50 years with proper maintenance.
Due to their durability, many composite shingles carry warranties that last between 30-50 years.
This material requires little to no maintenance. It’s perfect for the homeowner who doesn’t want to fret about every little detail.
It rarely cracks, peels, splits, or warps.
It comes in a wide variety of colors and designs and can mimic many popular roofing materials.
Composite shingles are lighter than asphalt shingles, which means that the cost of transporting them is lower and they’re easy to install.
This material can be made of old tires, fiberglass, and post industrial plastics, which makes it a “green” roofing choice.
It’s a better insulator than asphalt, which can help lower heating and cooling bills.
The Cons
Though they can be made of recycled materials, composite roofs aren’t all recyclable. However, hemp variations are coming out that can be recycled.
Since they can last between 20 to 50 years, they have half the turnover rate of asphalt, so fewer composite roofs end up in landfills.
In terms of cost, they’re not as affordable as asphalt roofs, costing around $8 per sq. ft., including installation.
Roof Repair & Replacement in Northern Virginia
In our next post, we’ll discuss slate and it could be the roofing material that completes your home. Check it out and let us know if you have any questions. Noble Roofing is the expert you can turn to for residential roofing and storm damage services. For more than two decades, we’ve developed a reputation for sheer quality and dependability. We serve Centreville, VA, and other nearby areas. Give us a call today at (703) 429-0840 and experience our top-notch service for yourself.
