The world of roofing is definitely becoming more diverse. No longer are asphalt shingles and metal panels your only roofing options. These days, there are many more materials to choose from, one of which is composite shingles. These shingles are made from recycled rubber and plastic, combined in a specific way to create a tough, durable material. So, should you choose composite shingles for your home? Here are some upsides and downsides to consider before you ultimately make a choice.
Pro: Composite shingles use up waste.
The plastic and rubber used in composite shingles would have been hauled off to landfills otherwise. So, by choosing composite shingles, you are helping to reduce waste and the pollution it often generates.
Con: Composite shingles can be expensive.
Composite shingles are not as expensive as clay tile or solar roofing. However, it does tend to cost significantly more than asphalt shingle roofing. This is especially true if you choose a more specialized type of composite shingles that are made to look like slate, tile, or asphalt.
Pro: Composite shingles are a little flexible.
In most cases, you do not want a roofing material to be completely rigid. If it is rigid, it is more likely to crack if a branch drops on your roof or if you get large hail. Composite shingles bend a little. So, when something heavy hits a composite shingle, it will bounce right back instead of cracking or losing a corner.
Con: Composite shingles are relatively new to the roofing world.
Because these are new roofing materials, you may not have an easy time finding a roofer in your area who installs composite shingles. It might take some calling around, and you may need to hire a roofer from quite a distance away, which can add to the cost of installation.
Pro: Composite shingles are fire-resistant.
If you live in an area where wildfires happen, this is a big reason to choose composite shingles. Even in areas that don't get wildfires, choosing a fire-resistant material like composite shingles can help protect your home if one of the neighboring homes catches on fire.
Composite shingles are not cheap, and it may be tough to find a roofer to install them. But if you can afford them and have a local roofer who works with them, they can make a very tough, durable roof. They're also a very eco-friendly choice as they reduce waste.
Contact a company like Oneida Roof & Chimney to learn more.
The strong roof is one that has been carefully selected for your home, according to the local climate and your home's structure. The strong roof is one that you've taken the time to maintain, season after season. It's a roof that is protected by good insulation and a good warranty. Do you have a strong roof? As you check out the articles on this website, you'll come to a better understanding of what it means to have a strong roof and what you can do to keep your roof strong. We hope you enjoy reading these articles we've collected for readers like you.