Three industry experts — Robert Kaethler, composite roofing product manager, Trimline; Ray Rosewall, CEO, DaVinci Roofscapes; and Charlie Taft, national sales manager, EcoStar — discuss the state of synthetic/composite roofing:

Q. Considering synthetic roofing products are nearly as expensive as high-end metal and real slate, what are the benefits?

Kaethler

Kaethler: Many products have been created with a natural look. Synthetics/composites can often have a more natural look than roofing products made of metal. Synthetic/composite products also offer a more conventional installation method, using traditional cutting and fastening techniques. High-end metals, which resemble slate or tile, require all sorts of special metal-bending equipment and, in some cases, require applicators with special knowledge; this limits the number of applicators available. From an aesthetic perspective, synthetics/composites replicate the "real thing" in the product category and duplicate the look of natural slate, shakes, and tile. Most synthetics/composites on the market are lighter weight than natural slate, shake, or tile and do not require additional building reinforcement.

Rosewall: In fact, the total life-cycle cost of synthetic slate roofing is significantly less expensive than a comparable natural alternative when factoring the extra cost of the structure required because of the extra weight, the higher labor costs for installation, and the ongoing maintenance costs of real slate. Customers have told us that they feel metal roofing tends to be noisier, more prone to damage from hail, and does not provide the aesthetic effect. They feel there is an increased home value associated with a premium synthetic slate or shake roof.

Taft

Taft: In the majority of cases the installed cost is approximately one-third less than a real slate roof and approximately one-third the price of a high-end metal roof. The framing of a home can remain the same as if there would be an asphalt shingle used due to the fact that a few manufacturers provide systems that weigh in the neighborhood of 260 pounds per square. The other major advantage of a synthetic material is the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Class 4 impact resistance. Many insurers shy away from products that do not meet this performance standard. Having a Class 4 impact-resistant product can lead to lower homeowners' insurance and premiums.

Q. The green movement has to be a huge advantage to you right now in the market, correct?

Synthetic slate and shakes are comparable in weight to premium asphalt shingles per square and both are installed over a solid deck with underlayment, using a nail gun. (Photograph courtesy of DaVinci Roofscapes)

Rosewall: Compared with asphalt-based roofing products, most synthetics offer a reduced carbon footprint because they have a longer life, can be recycled, and may include some recycled material. Additionally synthetic shake eliminates the need to cut down trees and lasts two times to three times longer than wooden shake shingles. Class A synthetic shake significantly reduces the risk of fire, which can have a significant negative effect on people and the environment.

Taft: Yes, with the provision that the compound used to manufacture a synthetic or polymer tile/shake is formulated with recycled materials and the products produced are 100 percent recyclable.