If you are considering changing the roofing material on your home, you may be wondering if you should choose a composite roofing versus shingles. This article focuses on four major factors: Cost, Appearance, Durability, and Lifespan. In addition, we will go over the pros and cons of each type. In addition to evaluating each of these factors, it will also help you to choose a roofing material that is right for your home.
Cost
You may be wondering how much composite roofing costs compared to the cost of shingles. Composite roofing is made of plastic, HDPE, or a mixture of these materials. It is also referred to as fake shakes, synthetic shakes, or engineered shakes. There are two basic types: single-width shakes and multi-width shingles. The former weigh about one-half the amount of shingles, while the latter is a lightweight material that can be attached to the roof with a nail gun.
While composite roofing costs more than shingles, the benefits outweigh the additional expense. Composite shingles have many advantages, including post-recycled content, which may qualify for LEED credits. However, the downsides of composite roofing may outweigh the pros. They are not as energy-efficient as shingles, but they are still significantly more durable and environmentally friendly. Composite shingles are also lightweight, which means that they are easier to install than shingles.
Durability
If you’re wondering which roofing material is better for your home, consider the durability of composite shingles. These roofs are a far superior choice when it comes to preserving the overall appearance of a building. They won’t peel, crack, warp, or fade, and they’ll provide decades of pristine beauty. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, composite shingles are virtually maintenance-free.
Composite shingles are made from synthetic materials that look and feel like clay tile or slate. They’re lightweight and resistant to wind and water damage. Many top composite shingles are guaranteed for decades, and the process of installing them is less invasive and requires less maintenance than shingles. Roofing contractors often use recycled materials when manufacturing composite shingles, which lowers their overall costs. The durability of composite shingles is important, as it will protect your home for years to come.
Appearance
Whether you are comparing the look of a composite roof or a traditional shingle roof, you need to know that there are several differences between the two. Although composite shingles are cheaper than conventional asphalt shingles, they are not nearly as durable as real wood shingles. And while they can be fireproof, composite shingles do not last as long. So, if you are a homeowner looking to save money on your roof, composite shingles may be a wise choice.
In addition to their durability and cost, composite shingles can be molded to mimic natural slate, wood shakes, or traditional Spanish clay tiles. Some of these materials even feature deep graining patterns and chisel marks, making them hard to distinguish from real materials. Although composite roofing shingles may look similar to synthetic shingles, their other qualities make them a better option. Here are some key differences between the two types of roofing materials:
Lifespan
If you’re looking for a roof that lasts a long time, consider a composite roofing alternative over shingles. These materials are often better-suited for high-end homes and can withstand wind speeds up to 130 miles per hour. Additionally, they are easy to install and can often last up to fifty years. The construction of composite roofing is similar to that of shingles, but the materials used to create them differ.
Composite shingles tend to last for 20 to 30 years in high-humid climates. However, there are several factors that determine the lifespan of composite shingles. Quality and construction of the shingles play a significant role in the life span. Certain brands of composite shingles have lifetime limited warranties. Also, consider the climate of your region when comparing the two. While both materials can last for up to half a century, composite shingles are more likely to break under severe conditions.
