When it comes to steep slope roofing materials, there are synthetic options on the market that may be suitable for your property. Synthetic roof coverings are artificially manufactured to resemble standard roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal panels, wood shakes, concrete tiles, slate, and more. It is important to understand that synthetic roof coverings, while available, have advantages and disadvantages depending on the particular circumstances. Read on to learn about some of the main pros and cons of artificial roofing materials and how to make the right choice for your property’s roofing system.
synthetic roofing materials
Synthetic roofing materials have been produced and available on the market since the early 1990s. Since then, they have continued to be made from the same key components: recycled plastics, polymers, and rubber. Compared to traditional roof coverings, imitation products are often preferred for a number of reasons.
Advantage
One of the most common motivations among consumers is its ease and comfort. Not only are they made to fit various types of steep slope roofing systems, helping to speed up the installation process, but they are also much lighter in weight. For example, if you were to install real slate tiles, the weight would be considerably higher than synthetic slate tiles. Beneficially these can often be installed over existing roof decks.
Another advantage of man-made roofs is their durability and strength. Most, but not all, synthetic roofing products are resistant to weather, mold, algae, corrosion and more. This is very useful for those who want a wood or cedar smoothie without the organic elements that go with it. Also, real cedar shakes should be treated with fire retardants or anti-algae coatings, while synthetic ones do not.
Disadvantages
There are many admirable advantages to faux roofing materials, but there are also drawbacks. These products are fairly new to the general roofing market. This is unfavorable because there is no concrete and proven track record of performance and longevity. For example, imitation roof coverings are often made with dyes and other coloring agents. The timeline of fading and discoloration due to weathering and sun exposure is mostly unknown.
However, these are trivial issues compared to the number one drawback of artificial roofing products: building codes. Most building codes do not allow synthetic roof coverings, which can make it difficult to install them professionally and in accordance with the law. You would have to check with your local building department to determine whether or not they are allowed in your city.