If you’re pursuing the home improvement market in search of the right roof, you may be wondering about the best kind of materials to use. There are many different types of roofing materials to choose from. Cedar shake roofs, asphalt shingles, clay tiles, metal, and even slate. But what are composition shingles and how do they stack up?
Whether you’re contemplating a roof replacement or constructing a new abode, understanding the nuances of roofing materials is pivotal. Among the plethora of options, composition shingles stand out as a versatile, durable, and aesthetically pleasing choice for homeowners.
What is a Composition Roof?
A composition roof, often referred to as composite roofing shingles, is crafted from a blend of materials, typically including asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. These shingles are engineered to withstand various weather conditions while offering an appealing look for residential properties.
Composition shingles typically consist of:
Asphalt: Provides waterproofing and adhesion properties.
Fiberglass Mat: Enhances durability and strength.
Mineral Granules: Offer color, UV protection, and fire resistance.
Benefits of a Composition Asphalt Roof
Versatility: Available in a wide array of styles, colors, and textures, allowing homeowners to customize their roofs.
Durability: Engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and hail, with some products boasting warranties of up to 30 years.
Affordability: Compared to premium roofing materials like slate tile or cedar shake, composition shingles offer a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
Fire Resistance: Many composition shingles are designed to meet fire-resistant standards, providing an added layer of safety for your home.
Composition Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles
Most roofing contractors use the terms interchangeably, but there are differences between the two. Architectural shingles are essentially a type of composition shingles, composed of a blend of materials, including asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. They are available in various styles, such as dimensional shingles, offering versatility and affordability for homeowners.
Architectural shingles, often referred to as dimensional or laminate shingles, are a high-quality upgrade from traditional 3-tab asphalt shingle roofing. They feature a multi-layered design that mimics the appearance of natural materials like wood or slate, providing enhanced durability and aesthetics.
The Difference Between Composition Shingles vs. Asphalt Shingles
Types of asphalt shingles have been around since they were first produced in 1903, but over the years, composition shingles have begun to steal the spotlight. Composition or architectural shingles are made from a variety of roofing materials, including fiberglass, paper products, and asphalt. This means that these synthetic shingles can be customized to specific needs by curating their composition, unlike natural materials.
CertainTeed makes a composite slate that has a Class A Fire resistant rating and a Class 4 impact rating and comes with a limited warranty of 50 years. Composite shingles made from recycled materials are eco-friendly and have an Energy Star Certification. In most cases, they can withstand winds up to 110 mph–that’s 20 mph more than organic asphalt shingles.
Traditional asphalt shingles can lose their granules over time. Without this protective granule layer, the shingle will become very brittle and can potentially crack. Elements like wind and hail cause granule loss over time, even with Class 4 impact-rated shingles. Asphalt shingles are relatively weak, causing them to tear easily on impact, and have warranties not much longer than 20 years.
FAQs about Composition Shingles:
Q: How long do composition shingles last?
A: Most composition shingles come with warranties ranging from 30 to 50 years, indicating their durability and longevity.
Q: Are composition shingles suitable for all climates?
A: Composition shingles are suitable for a wide range of climates, including both hot and cold regions. They are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including wind, rain, hail, and UV exposure, making them an ideal choice for residential roofing projects.
Q: Can composition shingles mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate or wood?
A: Yes, composition shingles can be made to look like natural materials such as slate or wood. Architectural shingles, in particular, feature multi-layered designs that closely resemble the texture of natural materials.
Q: Are composition shingles environmentally friendly?
A: While composition shingles are not biodegradable like some natural roofing materials, they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, reducing their environmental impact. Additionally, many manufacturers offer eco-friendly options made from recycled materials, further minimizing their carbon footprint.
Q: How do composition shingles compare to other roofing materials in terms of installation cost?
A: Installation costs for composition shingles are typically lower than premium roofing materials like slate tile or cedar shake. Their lightweight design and ease of installation contribute to reduced labor costs, making them a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
Warner Roofing: Your Composition Shingle Experts
Here at Warner Roofing, we want nothing but the best for our clients. With years of experience with both commercial and residential roofing services, we guarantee that we’ll treat your home or business like it’s our own.
A stable, durable roofing system is the centerpiece of a well-functioning home, which is why we build them to last. In fact, we are so confident in our skills that we offer a 10-year warranty on complete tear-off roofs, a 5-year warranty on second-layer roofs, a 2-year warranty on repairs, and 30- and 50-year material warranties.
Interested? Check out our complete list of services and then reach out to see how we can help.
