Choosing the right roofing material is a big decision for homeowners. One fact to know is that composite shingles last longer than asphalt ones. This article will compare these two options, helping you make an informed choice.
Differences Between Asphalt & Composite Shingles:
The material makeup, cost, lifespan, weather resistance, and curb appeal distinguish asphalt from composite shingles. While asphalt shingles are widely available and come in various styles and colors, composite shingles are stronger and more durable with eco-friendly options available.
Material makeup
Composite shingles are a modern roofing solution, combining fiberglass, recycled plastics, and synthetic polymers to create a durable and environmentally friendlier option. This blend makes them strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions while also contributing to the reduction of waste in our landfills.
Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, consist of either cellulose fibers or glass fibers. These materials give asphalt shingles their characteristic toughness and flexibility needed for reliable roofing.
Although less eco-friendly than composite options, they provide a cost-effective and widely available choice for homeowners looking for traditional building materials.
Cost
Cost becomes a significant deciding factor for homeowners choosing between composite and asphalt shingles. Composite shingles range in price from $100 to $1,500 per square, making them pricier compared to asphalt.
On average, materials for composite shingles cost between $7 and $14 per square foot, with total installation expenses going upwards of $15,000. This positions composites at two to three times the expense of their asphalt counterparts.
Asphalt shingles offer a more budget-friendly option, typically costing one-third to one-half less than composite shingles.
While architectural shingles may present higher upfront costs due to better aesthetics and durability, they’re an investment in your home’s future.
Asphalt proves widely accessible and varied in style without straining your finances. Yet those seeking longevity and superior resistance might find the initial extra cost of composite roofing a worthwhile investment for their roofing options.
Lifespan
Composite shingles boast a lifespan of 40 to 50 years, doubling the durability of asphalt shingles which generally last between 20 to 30 years. This significant difference allows homeowners to enjoy longer periods without worrying about roof replacements.
The longevity of composite materials stems from their superior resistance to weather and environmental factors, making them an ideal choice for regions with varying climates.
Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, offer a practical lifespan of approximately 20 years but can reach up to 30 years under optimal conditions. However, architectural asphalt shingle roofs are specified by manufacturers to last around 30 years.
Climate and maintenance play crucial roles in determining how long these roofing materials will hold up over time. Proper care can extend their life expectancy, ensuring that they perform well within their intended lifespan parameters.
Weather resistance
Composite shingles offer superior weather resistance, being more durable and able to withstand harsh conditions compared to asphalt shingles. The combination of recycled materials and plastic in composite shingles makes them stronger, providing better resistance to wind.
Additionally, composite roofing is highly resistant to UV rays and other environmental factors, making it a reliable choice for homeowners looking for long-lasting and weatherproof roofing materials with excellent climate resistance.
Asphalt shingles are also known for their durability and are highly resistant to damage from harsh weather conditions such as wind, hail, and UV rays. This synthetic roofing option provides strong weather resistance that can withstand various climate challenges while offering reliable protection for your home.
Curb appeal
Composite shingles and asphalt both enhance the visual appeal of a property, but composite shingles stand out for their ability to mimic traditional roofing materials and elevate a home’s exterior aesthetics.
The option of luxury asphalt shingles also competes in enhancing curb appeal, offering diverse styles and colors. Homeowners aiming for a classic or contemporary appearance may find that composite shingles are an attractive choice to upgrade their property’s visual allure.
Whether it’s about achieving a traditional look or introducing modern designs, the selection between these two roofing materials plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall curb appeal of residential properties.
The desire to improve property aesthetics has led many homeowners towards considering architectural shingle options that combine durability with timeless elegance, giving them confidence in making an informed decision about which material best complements their unique exterior design preferences.
Advantages of Composite Shingles
Composite shingles offer superior strength and durability, making them highly resilient against harsh weather conditions. Eco-friendly options are available, providing homeowners with sustainable roofing solutions.
Stronger and more durable
Composite shingles provide homeowners with a durable and long-lasting roofing option. The impact rating of these shingles contributes to their toughness, making them resilient and reliable in various weather conditions.
Architectural composite shingles are about 50 percent heavier than traditional asphalt shingles, indicating their sturdy and robust nature. Furthermore, the two-layer construction of composite shingles enhances their weatherproof properties, providing homeowners with a solid and enduring roofing solution that can withstand environmental stressors for an extended period.
Composite shingles closely resemble real slate or wood but offer superior durability at a cost-effective price point, making them an appealing choice for homeowners looking for reliability and longevity in their roofing materials.
Resistant to weather and environmental factors
Transitioning from the previous section, composite shingles are not only stronger and more durable but also remarkably resilient to weather and environmental factors. The synthetic materials used in composite shingles make them highly resistant to UV rays, hail damage, heavy rain, and wind.
This durability ensures that composite shingles can withstand harsh environmental elements without compromising their longevity or weatherproof properties. In addition to being impact-resistant, these shingles offer excellent protection against the everchanging weather conditions, creating a reliable roofing solution for homeowners seeking long-term resilience.
Composite shingles stand out in terms of their exceptional environmental durability and resistance to various weather elements. They provide impactful solutions against UV rays, hail damage, heavy rain, and strong winds – making them an ideal choice for maintaining your home’s structural integrity over time.
Eco-friendly options available
Composite shingles offer sustainable and environmentally responsible roofing solutions. Made from synthetic polymer or recycled materials, they provide eco-friendly choices for homeowners.
Opting for light-colored composite shingles or those with reflective properties can increase energy efficiency in the home, contributing to a greener environment. Additionally, synthetic asphalt shingles present environmental advantages over natural materials like wood or slate, providing another compelling option for sustainable roofing needs.
Cool (white) roofs, solar roofs, and metal roofs are also considered eco-friendly options for homeowners looking to make environmentally conscious decisions when it comes to their roof.
Advantages of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles offer a lower cost option for homeowners. They come in various styles and colors to suit different preferences.
Lower cost
Asphalt shingles offer an affordable roofing option, providing economical and budget-friendly solutions for homeowners. With lower upfront costs, asphalt shingles deliver long-term value without compromising on quality or durability.
This makes them a cost-effective choice for those seeking inexpensive yet reliable roof materials that also come in various styles and colors.
Additionally, while composite shingle roofs may be more expensive to install, they are still a valuable investment as they offer cost-effective options with eco-friendly alternatives available.
Although composite roofing might have higher initial material costs compared to asphalt shingles, it provides value for money and is an economical roofing solution over the long term.
Widely available
Asphalt shingles are widely available in various styles and colors to suit your home’s aesthetic. This makes it easier to find the right shingle for your roofing needs. With their widespread availability, homeowners have a wide selection of asphalt shingles at different price points, making them an accessible roofing option for many.
When it comes to finding a reliable and readily available roofing material, asphalt shingles are a popular choice due to their widespread distribution and availability at local suppliers and home improvement stores.
Various styles and colors
Asphalt shingles offer a wide range of color and style options, catering to various home aesthetics. Dimensional and premium asphalt shingles come in multiple styles, some mimicking the look of other roofing materials such as slate and cedar shakes.
They are available in various textures to suit any home’s exterior design, providing homeowners with ample choices for their roofing needs.
Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Home
Consider your budget and preferences, consult a professional, and maintain your roof properly to extend its lifespan. Read more about making an informed decision for your home’s roofing needs.
Consider your budget and preferences
When choosing the right roofing material for your home, it’s crucial to consider your budget and personal preferences. Whether you prioritize cost-effectiveness, longevity, or environmental impact, evaluating these factors will guide you towards the best roofing option that aligns with your needs and style.
Keep in mind that consulting a professional for advice tailored to your specific situation can help you make an informed decision.
To make sure you’re making the most of your investment and getting the perfect match for your home, take into account any ecological aspirations or desired aesthetic appeal when selecting a roofing material.
This meticulous consideration will ensure that your roof not only enhances your home but also serves as a durable protective layer against varying weather conditions.
Consult a professional
When considering your budget and preferences, it’s important to consult a professional for expert guidance in choosing the right roofing material for your home. Professional roofers can provide valuable insights into the durability, cost-effectiveness, and long-lasting options available in both composite and asphalt shingles.
By seeking professional advice, homeowners can make an informed decision that aligns with their specific needs and ensures the longevity of their roof. Professional consultation is crucial as it underpins the overall success of your roofing investment, providing tailored recommendations based on weather-resistant options, aesthetic choices, and environmentally friendly materials.
It is advisable to consult a professional before making any decisions regarding your home’s roof. Professional expertise will guide you through navigating complexities within the realm of roofing materials while ensuring that you unlock the secrets to a durable and robust roofing solution designed to enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Maintain your roof properly to extend its lifespan
Maintaining your roof properly is crucial for extending its lifespan. Regular inspections and proactive repairs are essential to protect against potential damage. Cleaning gutters, removing debris, and trimming overhanging branches will help prevent clogging and structural deterioration.
Additionally, ensuring that the flashing and seals are secure can safeguard against leaks and water infiltration. These simple maintenance tasks can significantly prolong the life of your roof, saving you money on costly replacements or extensive repairs in the long run.- Roof maintenance – Proper roof care – Roof protection.
Contact Roland Slate
Extend the lifespan of your roof by proper maintenance. Consider your budget and preferences when choosing between composite and asphalt shingles for value-adding, long-term investment in roofing.
Contact Roland Slate today to learn how we can help!
FAQs
1. What are composite shingles made of?
Composite shingles are typically made from a mixture of materials such as fiberglass, recycled plastics, and asphalt.
2. Is asphalt roofing more affordable than composite shingles?
Yes, asphalt roofing is generally more affordable upfront compared to composite shingles.
3. Which roofing material offers better durability: composite shingles or asphalt?
Composite shingles tend to offer better durability and longevity compared to traditional asphalt roofing.
4. Are there any environmental benefits to choosing composite shingles over asphalt?
Yes, composite shingles often contain recycled materials and can be recycled after use, making them a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional asphalt roofing.
5. Can I install either type of roofing material myself?
While it’s possible for some homeowners to install asphalt roofing with the right knowledge and tools, installing composite shingles typically requires professional expertise due to their specific installation requirements.
Brittany Rich co-owns Roland Slate, where her expertise in roofing and dedication to craftsmanship have established the company as a leader in durable, beautifully designed roofing solutions. Brittany’s focus on high-quality materials and innovative installation techniques ensures that each roofing project is both aesthetically appealing and built to last. Under her direction, Roland Slate is committed to redefining roofing excellence, sharing knowledge on the benefits of slate roofing and how it can enhance the beauty and value of any property.