8 Benefits of Using Composite Roofing Materials

When it comes to choosing the material from which a building's roof will be constructed, you have plenty of options. Some materials will suit your needs better than others however, and it's important to seriously consider your options. If you haven't considered synthetic or composite roofing materials, take a look at the following benefits, which make them a contender for your next roofing project.

Durability

Replacing a roof is generally an expensive process that you don't want to undergo more often than necessary. As such, it is imperative that the material you select has a reputation for durability and can withstand the tests of time and the elements. Synthetic or composite roofing materials are stronger and longer-lasting than their all-natural counterparts because they're specifically engineered to outlast cedar, and possibly slate and other roofing materials.

Wind Resistance.

In many cases, a synthetic roof can withstand winds of up to 110 mph. This means that, barring any natural disaster or storm of hurricane proportions, your roof will be able to perform without worry.

Fire Resistance

Fire resistance ratings vary by manufacturer and type of materials used to make the composite. For instance, a Class A fire rating is achievable with a synthetic shake roof, which makes this material excellent for a number of building projects, including those related to historic preservation. Although not all roofs will be able to achieve this highest degree of fire resistance, it is often more plausible with a synthetic or composite roofing system.

Impact Resistance

Impact resistance is important for many reasons. Damage that could otherwise occur from hail as an example, is much less likely to occur on a synthetic roof. It is not unreasonable to seek out synthetic roof composite materials with a Class 4 impact resistance qualification. This top-of-the-class measurement is attainable from a number of synthetic and composite roof manufacturers.

Fade-Resistance

Fading is a known problem with many roofing materials. Over time, exposure to the sun can cause a once-pristine roof to look old and unkempt. With natural materials, even the highest quality treatment can't fully protect it from harm that will eventually come from the elements. Composite roofing materials on the other hand, can be created to be resistant to the sun's harmful effect, leading to decades of a beautiful, fade-free finish.

Strong Warranties

Most roofs come with some type of warranty, but those made with all-natural products tend to harbor a shorter guaranteed lifespan than their synthetic counterparts. Polymer-based synthetic roofs offer excellent strength against fire and impact damage, and as such they tend to come with very strong warranties, as well.

Cost

Authentic materials such as slate have been used as roofing materials for centuries, but natural items tend to come with fairly heavy price tags. Slate, for example, also carries the cost associated with mining the quarry, transporting the material, and installing it. Natural materials are also more susceptible to cracking, breaking, chipping, and incurring other damage while in transit. Because synthetic materials are manufactured with lightweight content, some of which is even recycled matter, it is much more cost-effective for nearly any project.

Eco-Friendly

Synthetic roofs, whether beginning as recycled materials or not, are usually recyclable when their useful life is over. This helps to reduce waste and is seen in positive light as the world trends more and more toward green living.

Contact us for more about composite roofing materials today

If you would like to discuss how synthetic and composite roofing materials could work with your next building or restoration project, contact a member of the Heather & Little team.