While asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in the United States, found on more than 80 percent of homes, synthetic roofing and composite tiles are becoming more common. In fact, as synthetic roofing gradually becomes more and more popular, it’s quickly becoming an alternative to traditional roofing materials such as wood, slate, and asphalt.
Despite its gaining popularity, several lingering myths and misconceptions surround synthetic roof systems. When these misconceptions are difficult to separate from the truth, the real, tangible advantages of synthetic roofing materials become difficult to discern. To separate fact from fiction, and to help you understand why synthetic roofing materials are becoming more popular for homeowners, here are some common synthetic roofing myths, and the truth about each of them.
Myth #1: Durability vs. Traditional Materials
Synthetic roofing is often seen as a cheaper alternative that doesn’t last as long as traditional materials. Specifically, slate is seen as an especially durable natural material. Synthetic slate tiles, however, can last as long as their natural counterpart. Synthetic slate shingles are extremely durable and come with the added benefit of a 50-year warranty.
Synthetic wood shakes also have impressive longevity, longer than natural cedar. Many people associate cheapness in price with cheapness in quality, and therefore believe synthetic roofing doesn’t last as long as natural materials, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Synthetic roofing can also yield better resistance to elements of nature, even extremely destructive and dangerous ones, like fire. Synthetic “cedar” is available with Class A fire-resistance, making it a great alternative if you live in an area prone to wildfires but want the look of a wooden roof. You don’t have to sacrifice safety to achieve the ideal aesthetics of your home.
Synthetic tiles are also resistant to weathering and contain components that protect them from damage by the sun’s UV rays. This reduces wear and tear, especially in storm-prone or hot climates. Typically, synthetic roofing can also sustain more impact, withstanding damage from storm debris and other factors better than its natural counterparts.
Myth #2: Synthetic Roofing Looks Unnatural
While comparing the two by name might lead you to believe synthetic roofing could never achieve a similar appearance to natural roofing materials, the opposite is true. In reality, synthetic roofing is generally considered to be a worthy aesthetic approximation to the look of natural materials, impressively replicating their appearance.
This impressive likeness means synthetic roofing can be used to refurbish historic buildings. Its light weight and durability makes it an attractive option that doesn’t compromise a historic structure’s appearance. In fact, some of the historic structures you may have seen may have had their natural roof replaced with synthetics.
Myth 3: Synthetic Roofing is Not Environmentally Friendly
Some people may assume synthetic roofing materials are not environmentally friendly due to the rubber and/or plastic content, but this is not the case. Many synthetic roofing materials are designed with environmental impact in mind and manufactured from recycled materials. The result isn’t just a sustainably-sourced material, but means that the manufacturing practice does not compromise the durability or appearance of the synthetic products.
Conversely, natural wood or slate roofing requires processes that are destructive to the environment. For instance, wood is sourced by harvesting trees, while slate needs to be mined. Meanwhile, the manufacture of synthetic roofing is focused on taking materials out of the landfills and creating a product that won’t need to be replaced for decades.
Myth 4: Synthetic Roofing is Prone to Mold and Algae Growth
While it’s true that natural wood shake roofs can be treated to reduce algae growth, mold and algae growth is something all roofs are susceptible to. However, just because this can occur on synthetic roofing, doesn’t mean synthetic roofing is prone to it, or that algae and mold growth is common.
Synthetic roofing materials are resistant to mold and algae buildup by nature of their composition, which mold and algae struggle to grow on. Additionally, synthetic roofs can be treated to further prevent its growth. This means synthetic roofs are actually less prone to mold and algae growth than their traditional, natural counterparts, also meaning they’re less likely to need an algae-resistant coating.
EcoStar: Sustainable Synthetic Roofing To Suit Any Home
EcoStar synthetic roofing tiles come in a wide variety of styles and colors to mimic natural materials, matching your home no matter the aesthetic. If you think EcoStar might be right for you, contact us today to discuss your roofing project.
