Tags: Roofing, Replacement, Shingles, Commercial, Installation, Tile
Composite roofing is a natural choice for most homeowners: It's long-lasting and cost effective, and as a result, it makes up more than 90 percent of the market.
Composite roofing is available in many colors, and most products are covered under warranty for 20 years. And some roofing products are covered for as long as 30 years, further increasing their attractiveness.
Remodeling magazine's annual "Cost vs. Value" report estimates the average cost of roof replacement with composite fiberglass asphalt shingles to be just under $19,000; That estimate includes a 25-year warranty and 30 squares of 235-pound shingles with new underlayment, galvanized drip edge and mill-finish aluminum flashing, as well as custom flashing for two skylights.
Not All Composite Roofing Products Are Equal
Composite shingles are well suited for a variety of roof pitches and are easy to install yourself. They work well with most any flashing and edging products and don't require special accessories for roof edges, chimneys or vents.
However, be sure to shop around before you buy. Each product has its pluses and minuses. Some composite shingles are sturdier than others, but are also heavier to lug around; others are lighter and carry a better fire rating, but don't perform as well in cold weather.
Compare warranties, too. While a warranty might have a long lifespan, that doesn't mean the shingles themselves won't fail long before the warranty expires. Conduct online searches to determine whether the products you're considering have been the target of homeowner complaints or dissatisfaction.