Asphalt shingles are a widely used type of roofing material; they are durable, long lasting, and easily made to mimic the look of other more costly materials. Although most homeowners choose asphalt shingles for their roofs because it is affordable, composite slate may offer another option.
Composite slate shingles are economical yet look like actual, more expensive slate; they are comparable to asphalt in many ways. Before asphalt roof services install the usual shingles, homeowners should consider how composite shingles may be a great alternative.
What Are Composite Slate Shingles?
Composite slate shingles are a type of synthetic roofing material made to look like natural slate. These shingles are dramatically lighter in weight than natural slate, more impact-resistant, and more durable overall than most other materials, including asphalt. They can also be installed by asphalt roof services more easily than the natural material, making them a preferred choice by those who desire the look of actual slate.
Advantages of Composite Slate
The main advantage of composite slate shingles is that they are significantly lighter than natural slate. Because of the weight issue, natural slate can only be installed on the roofs of certain homes; however, the synthetic version can be installed on almost any home. Synthetic slate is also more durable than natural slate as it resists chipping and cracking as well as is not damaged by foot traffic, hail, or debris hitting the roof.
Just like real slate, composite is fire-resistant and looks like the real thing. The shingles are nearly indistinguishable from the natural material and are available in various colors, shapes, and sizes. They are designed to last 50 or more years and require minimal maintenance.
Asphalt Shingles vs. Composite Slate
Although there are a number of high-quality designer asphalt shingles available at a slightly lower price than composite slate, there are still many reasons to choose composite for roofs. Although asphalt shingles are designed to be fairly durable, they are not as resistant as composite slate. Generally speaking, most homeowners also prefer the look of slate over even the best architectural shingles designed to look like more attractive materials.
The best asphalt shingles can still cost as much as some composite slate varieties, yet the composite version lasts longer. When installed by professional asphalt roof services, the imitation slate looks nicer and can perform better over the life of the roof.
For those who enjoy the look of natural slate roofs, composite shingles may be the perfect choice over other asphalt options. Composite slate shingles are strong, lightweight, and can give any home the distinctive look of the more expensive slate. Although it may mean a larger initial investment, composite slate is often a wiser overall choice because of its durability, longevity, and better performance value over even the best asphalt shingles. Best of all, composite slate roofing can be conveniently and expertly installed by asphalt roof services!
