What You Need to Know Before Choosing Composite Roofing

What is composite roofing? The name says it all. A composite roof is exactly what it sounds like — a composite (or combination) of roofing materials. Each shingle is made from a mixture of materials, such as plastic, wood, fiberglass, or polyester. Even though these are common materials for composite shingles, you may find other popular roofing options (such as asphalt) in the mix.

Not only do composite shingles come in a variety of material makeups or mixtures, but they also come in a variety of styles. Whether you want a natural cedar look, prefer a tile type of aesthetic, or enjoy the simplicity of a traditional asphalt roof, you can find a composite style to meet your home's exterior décor needs.

Some types of composite roofing are made from recycled materials. These shingles are an eco-friendlier option for homeowners who want to avoid completely new synthetic options and are in search of a way to green their property.

Why choose composite roofing? This roofing material mix comes with plenty of benefits. Aside from the eco-conscious aspect, a composite roof is highly durable. The combination of multiple traditional roofing materials creates a strong surface, capable of repelling elements such as high winds, rain, and snow.

Beyond the immediate durability, these shingles are long-lasting and may have a life expectancy of over 30 years. The long lifespan can save you money over time on the potential costs of another roof replacement.

The cost-saving benefits of a composite roof don't stop at the life expectancy. Most composite roofing is made from three-tab style shingles. These are easy for a professional to install and may drive down the overall labor costs of your roof replacement.

Along with the functional factors, composite shingles offer an aesthetic enhancement to your home's exterior. Again, this type of roofing material comes in an array of styles. Whether you have a sleek contemporary, classic traditional, or individually eclectic home, you can find a composite shingle to match the appearance — and often at a lower price-point than a wooden shingle, tile, or slate roof.

How can you get a composite roof? The first step is a call to a professional roofing contractor. Even though the three-tab design of composite shingles makes them easy to install, that doesn't mean your roof replacement is a do-it-yourself job. A contractor can guide the roofing process, from shingle choice through installation.

If you aren't sure what type of composite roof to choose, the contractor can provide you with options and cost comparisons. These may include different material mixtures, green or eco-friendly alternatives, color choices, or specific styles.

After you select the shingle that is right for your home (both aesthetically and functionally), the contractor will install the composite roofing. The benefits of a professional installation include both time and cost savings. The expertise and experience a roofer brings to the job can increase or improve efficiency, safety, and workmanship (in comparison to a DIY version).

While it might seem like a DIY roofing installation would save you money, you want this job done right the first time. Without adequate knowledge of composite shingles or roofing practices, you could waste materials or ruin your roof. Damage from a botched DIY installation could result in the need to call a professional and start from scratch.

Are composite shingles right for your next roofing project? Contact Alton Roofing Services for more information.