Differences Between Composite and Asphalt Shingles
When working with a reputable roofing contractor in Colorado Springs, you’ll likely have your pick of materials to protect your home or business. Shingles remain one of the most popular choices, but many property owners get confused when it comes to composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles. What is the difference between the two, and which one is right for your roof?
Our team at RD Construction, LLC, is here to help you make an informed decision. Below, we’ll break down how composite and asphalt shingles differ, as well as the pros and cons of each material.
The Biggest Difference: What Each Material Is Made Of
As the name implies, asphalt shingles feature a layer of asphalt granules atop tar and special paper mats. Composite shingles primarily feature a synthetic polymer as well as materials like:
- Laminate
- Wood
- Slate
- Recycled materials
Researching composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles will lead you to find advantages and potential drawbacks for each option based on their ingredients.
Composite Shingles Can Provide Greater Curb Appeal
Some of the most attractive types of roofing materials are slate and cedar shakes. Composite shingles offer the best of both worlds with their modern design. If you’re looking for your home to stand out but don’t want to invest in those other materials, installing a composite shingle roof can be the perfect solution.
That’s not to say that a brand-new asphalt roof won’t be visually appealing. These standard shingles offer curb appeal, too, but they usually aren’t as eye-catching as their counterpart.
Consider Roof Durability and Lifespan Differences
If you’re debating installing composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles, think about how far your investment will go. A professionally installed roof should last for several decades, regardless of the material. However, some materials are known to be more durable.
Asphalt shingles offer between 25 and 30 years of protection, while composite shingles can last between 40 and 50 years. Each material’s weather resistance impacts its expected lifespan. Whereas asphalt shingles are more prone to UV and wind damage, composite ones have greater weather resistance.
The Cost of Each Material Is Worth Considering
Ask most roofers for a cost comparison of composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles, and they’ll tell you that the latter is almost always more cost-effective. Composite shingles can cost anywhere from $12 to $20 per square foot, while their asphalt counterparts usually only cost around $4 to $6 per square foot.
At the end of the installation process, you might pay up to four times more to invest in synthetic shingles that resemble slate or cedar shake. Maintenance requirements could also impact the cost of your investment.
Asphalt shingles typically require less maintenance. You could save even more long-term by opting for this material. Budgeting for these upfront costs allows property owners to safely invest in dependable asphalt shingle roofs that offer a great balance of aesthetic charm and reliable weather protection.
Composite Shingles Are Great for Eco-Conscious Property Owners
One of the best things about both types of roofing materials is that they can make your home or business more energy efficient. The roof helps insulate your property so you can retain a comfortable indoor temperature and potentially lower your heating and cooling costs. But are there other ways these materials can make your property more sustainable?
When comparing the two, there’s a clear winner when it comes to sustainability. Composite shingles usually include recycled materials and are easy to recycle once you remove them from your roof. If you don’t want your roofing material to end up in a landfill, consider installing composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles.
Manufacturer Warranties Vary for Each Material
Manufacturer warranties are typical with any roofing material. However, the length of the warranty may differ based on the material you select.
Many asphalt shingle manufacturers offer a minimum 30-year warranty on their products. While several decades of protection may seem too good to be true, it’s worth noting that composite shingles may come with a lifetime warranty.
Finding the right choice comes down to weighing the warranty as well as the issues mentioned above. Consult a qualified roofer if you’d like a professional recommendation.
Choose RD Construction, LLC for Excellent Roofing Solutions
If you need to install a new roof, consider the pros and cons of composite shingles vs. asphalt shingles. No matter which option you go with, RD Construction, LLC can install them with precision and keep your project affordable and on a tight schedule.
We’re your go-to source for everything from roof maintenance to exterior painting and more. Give us a call at (719) 259-4607 or request a free estimate online to get started.