Here are the main types of composite roofing, each with unique qualities and characteristics.
3-Tab Composite Shingle
3-tap composite shingles are the most basic and affordable type. Their traditional look makes them suitable for most home styles. The design of the 3-tap shingle makes them easy to install, reducing labor costs. They provide homeowners with excellent protection and durability.
Architectural Composite Shingles
Architectural composite shingles, a step up from 3-tab shingles, use laminated multiple layers, creating a thicker and more textured appearance. They mimic the style of natural wood or slate. The increased durability and lifespan increase the cost, but they provide homeowners with a good mix of beauty and performance.
Luxury Composite Shingles
Luxury or designer shingles are designed to look extremely close to high-end materials like slate or cedar shakes. It has the longest lifespan among composite shingles and is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. These benefits make luxury shingles the most expensive.
Composite Slate Shingles
Composite slate shingles offer the authentic and elegant look of natural slate without the cost, weight, and hassle. They are much lighter than natural slate, reducing your home's stress. Composite slate shingles will also outlast natural slate because they will not experience damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
Composite Cedar Shingles
Although natural cedar shake shingles don’t offer the long lifespan and quality they used to, composite cedar shingles offer a natural look with extra durability. Their resistance to rot, insects, and UV damage enhances their durability. Because they are not real wood, composite cedar shingles do not require regular maintenance or staining.
As mentioned earlier, composite shingles are lightweight and easier to install. They will also last much longer than natural roofing components. Depending on the type, they can last 25 to 50 years, making them a great long-term investment.
Cost-Effective
While composite roofing may not be the least expensive option, it balances quality and cost. While asphalt shingles may appear more affordable, composite roofing provides better value in the long run, as you’ll spend less on repairs and replacements.
Low Maintenance
As mentioned above, composite roofing requires less maintenance. Natural slate's tiny fissures make it susceptible to freeze-and-thaw cycles, while rotting, cracking, and curling are inevitable with natural shake. Composite is more resistant to moss, algae, and mildew, which are common issues with other roofing materials.
Energy Efficiency
Many composite shingles are designed to be energy-efficient, reflecting sunlight to reduce cooling costs in the summer. Some even have advanced coatings to improve insulation and decrease energy usage year-round, reducing heating costs. By reducing energy use, composite shingles contribute to a smaller carbon footprint.
Variety and Aesthetic Appeal
The plethora of color, style, and texture options composite offers adds to its appeal. It can also mimic the look of more expensive materials like slate or wood shakes. This flexibility allows homeowners to customize their roofs to match their aesthetic preferences.
Environmental Benefits
Along with reducing carbon emissions, composite shingles are typically made from recycled materials like plastic rubber, and fiberglass. This adds to their eco-friendliness. Most shingles are also fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Fire Resistance
Composite shingles typically have excellent fire resistance, particularly when compared to wood shingles. This added safety benefit can be a deciding factor for homeowners living in areas prone to wildfires. In addition to adding peace of mind, homes with fire-resistant shingles may qualify for lower insurance premiums.
Weather Resistance
Composite shingles are more resistant to extreme temperatures, wind, fading, and freeze-thaw cycles. They also resist cracking, curling, and warping that occurs with age. The resistance makes them more reliable than natural shingles, particularly in fluctuating climates.
Ease of Installation
Because composite shingles are lighter than other materials like slate or tile, they can reduce labor costs during installation. To save time and money, the installation process is straightforward. Just make sure you or the person installing the shingles is a professional.
Improved Warranty
Many composite shingles come with impressive manufacturer warranties lasting 50 years or more. This can offer additional peace of mind for homeowners. Before purchasing, read over the warranty because they are not all the same.
One of the leading brands of composite roofing is DaVinci Roofscapes. DaVinci offers some of the most realistic composite cedar shingles and slate tiles on the market. Their roofing tiles are Made of virgin resins, UV and thermal stabilizers, and a highly specialized fire retardant. They can withstand 110 gusts of wind, rain, and snow. Backed by a Lifetime Limited Material Warranty, they are designed to look realistic and provide more durability than natural shake and slate ever could.
DISCLAIMER: DaVinci Roofscapes are available to purchase, at your location MBS branch only. Find out which branch is closest to you here.