Choosing the right roofing material is vital to preserve the aesthetics of your home and its durability and protection. Many options are available, including composite roofing and asphalt roofing, which are also the most popular. At Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations in Charlotte, NC, we help homeowners make the best choice for their homes and follow through with the installation. We offer a range of roofing services, from roofing installations and inspections to roofing repair and replacements. Let’s look at the main differences between these two roofing materials.
Composition and Material Differences Between Composite and Asphalt
Composite roofing materials are most commonly made from a mixture of wood fibers, recycled plastic pieces, and fiberglass. These materials combined create a durable and weather-resistant roofing material. Asphalt roofing materials are made out of asphalt and fiberglass, primarily. The main difference between composite roofing and asphalt roofing is the way they are manufactured. Composite shingles are more eco-friendly because they use recycled materials while asphalt shingles are known for being affordable. Composite shingles also tend to mimic more natural shingles, such as slate or wood, better. On the other hand, asphalt shingles can sometimes look “fake” compared to natural materials but come in many colors.
Durability and Longevity Comparison
When comparing the durability and longevity of composite and asphalt shingles, we need to look at several factors. Composite shingles are more durable and have significantly longer lifespans than traditional asphalt shingles. This is in part because the composite material is more resistant to damage, including insect damage, weather damage, and rot. Asphalt shingles can also be durable and handle unpleasant weather conditions. However, asphalt shingles have difficulty lasting in areas with extreme climate changes.
The durability and longevity of roofing materials will also depend on how well you maintain them. Installation quality, environmental factors, and preventative maintenance will all play a role in determining how long roofing materials will last.
Cost Analysis: Upfront and Long-Term
Comparing the cost of composite and asphalt roofing is important. If affordability is important to you, you’ll want to look at the upfront and long-term costs of both types of roofing materials. While composite roofing has a higher initial cost because of the high-quality materials and installation process, it also has better long-term value. Composite roofs have a longer lifespan and need fewer repairs and replacements. The energy efficiency and durability of composite materials also mean that you’ll probably have lower insurance premiums and lower utility bills. Asphalt roofing is more affordable initially, but in the long term, asphalt roofing will cost more due to the repairs and limited durability.
Aesthetic Appeal: Style and Options Available
Composite roofing has various style options, including clay tiles, wood, or slate. Many homeowners choose composite if they want more of an architectural style. Asphalt roofing also offers various style options in traditional asphalt shingle designs. From classic shingles to mimicking more architectural styles, asphalt shingles come in different shapes, sizes, and colors.
Installation Process Differences
The composite and asphalt roofing installation process differs depending on the materials used and how difficult the installation will be based on the homeowner’s roof. Composite roofing involves interlocking shingles that are light and easy to handle, so installations tend to be quicker and more straightforward. Asphalt roofing with traditional shingles tends to be more labor-intensive and has stricter handling requirements because they are covered with mineral particles. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor can help you determine which roofing materials are best for your home and which installation process will work best with your roof.
Maintenance Requirements
Composite roofing requires less maintenance than asphalt shingles. Composite materials are more resistant to algae, pests, mold, and inclement weather, so you won’t need to clean or treat them as much as you would asphalt shingles. Composite materials are also more resistant to wear and tear, so you’re less likely to experience them cracking, curling, or warping over time. Maintenance for composite roofing requires ongoing inspections to make sure that no damage has occurred and to clean out the dirt and debris. Asphalt shingles require more maintenance, frequent inspections, and regular cleaning to keep algae and mold at bay. If you want low maintenance requirements, composite roofing is the better choice for your home. However, depending on your budget, asphalt roofing materials might still be the better option.
Environmental Impact: Eco-Friendliness
When considering the environmental impact of roofing materials, composite roofing materials come out on top. Composite roofing materials are wholly or partially made from recycled materials such as wood fibers, plastic, and rubber, which reduces landfill waste. Composite shingles can also be recycled when it’s time to replace the roof. Asphalt shingles are made from fossil fuels and contribute to carbon emissions. They are also not as durable as composite shingles, which means they generate more waste. Homeowners who want to limit their environmental impact might want to choose composite roofing because it’s the more eco-friendly choice.
Weather Resistance: Climate Differences
The weather resistance of roofing materials depends in part on the climate in the area where they are stored. Composite shingles are known for being highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds, hail, lighting, and heavy rain. They are a great choice for homeowners who live in areas with hurricanes or tornadoes. Asphalt shingles can be weather resistant, but there is a significant fluctuation in how well they do during extreme weather. Whether or not they can withstand intense weather depends on the company and type of asphalt shingle purchased. They are best suited for areas that do not have wide temperature ranges, extreme heat, or high humidity.
Warranty Coverage
Warranty coverage is worth considering when choosing between composite and asphalt roofing materials. Composite shingles most commonly have longer warranty periods, which reflects their more durable nature. Many manufacturers offer warranties that range from 20 to 50 years for composite shingles because of their durability and performance. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, tend to have shorter warranty periods that range from 10 to 30 years.
Contact Us Today
Choosing between composite and asphalt shingles can be tough and involves careful consideration of all factors, including aesthetics, cost, installation, durability, and environmental impact. However, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you’re unsure which option is right for your home, consult a reputable roofing company. While asphalt roofing offers affordability and is commonly available in myriad colors, composite roofing has better longevity and customization and is more environmentally friendly. Both can be excellent choices for different homeowners, and we can help you choose which will most effectively meet your needs.
At Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations in Charlotte, we specialize in expert roofing services, including replacement, repair, and inspection, tailored to meet your unique requirements. Contact us today for a consultation, and let our team of roofing professionals help you make the right choice for your home’s roof.
