Composition Roofs: What to Know About Them

Published on Friday March 12, 2021

There are countless roofing options available to homeowners today who are looking to upgrade their roof. One of the most popular of these options is composition roofing, an affordable, easy to install shingle roof system that provides your home with the protection it needs.

But what is a composition roof? What is a composition roof made out of? And how does a composition roof compare to other roofing types? We’ll answer all of these questions and more.

What is a Composition Roof?

Composition roofing is a variation of asphalt shingle roofing, though it can be made to mimic many roofing types. Composition roofing is manufactured using a blend of roofing materials like fiberglass, asphalt—even recycled paper—and is often available in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes to suit the specific design of your home.

This blend of materials helps make composition shingles fireproof and water-resistant, preventing mold, mildew and algae growth. Plus, they don’t crack, peel or warp easily, even when exposed to severe weather elements.

While not all composition shingles are made equal, many are composed using recyclable materials like plastic, rubber and wood shavings, giving you an eco-friendly roofing option compared to some other types on the market.

How Long Do Composition Roofs Last?

On average, you can expect your composition roof to last about 30 years, though some composition roofing can last even longer. Composition roofing tends to be very durable, which often correlates to longevity.

Keep in mind, however, that a composition roof’s lifespan depends on factors such as the severity of weather events in your region, the specific materials used in the making of your composition roof and the skill level of your roofer when installing your composition roof.

Pros and Cons of Composition Roofs

Pros of a Composition Roof

Cost efficiency
Easy installation
Versatile in color, shape and style
Durable
Manufactured with quality materials
Mold-, mildew- and algae-resistant
30+ year lifespan
Fire-resistant
Eco-friendly/recyclable options

Cons of a Composition Roof

Excess sun exposure/high temperatures can lead to premature aging
Improper home ventilation can shorten lifespan
Hard impact from fallen tree limbs, hail, etc. can cause breakage

How Does Composition Roofing Compare to Other Types of Shingles?

Composition Roof vs. Natural Materials

Slate: Composite shingles much more lightweight—about a quarter of the weight of natural slate roofing. They are also more affordable and easier to install without compromising on design or appearance.

Cedar shakes: Since composition roofing is often made with synthetic materials like plastic and rubber, it doesn’t age as quickly as natural wood, preserving its appearance for a longer period of time.

Composition Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles

Composition roofing is essentially interchangeable with asphalt shingle roofing. They’re both lightweight, easy to install and tend to last a long time when well-maintained.

The biggest difference between the two is that composition roof shingles are made using a blend of materials that are often recyclable, making composition roofing a bit more eco-friendly than asphalt shingle roofing.

Composition Roof vs. Metal Roof

While composition roofing is far less expensive and easy to install than metal roofing, the benefits of metal roofing are significant compared to most other roofing types including composition roofing.

Metal roofs are more durable, energy efficient and long-lasting than a majority of roof types, but far more expensive. Ultimately, budget will determine whether or not composition or metal roofing is the right option for you.

Get a Quote on Your New Roof Today

Looking to get started on your roof replacement? Talk to the experts at Long Roofing about the best roofing material for your home.

Long Roofing is a premier provider of asphalt shingle and metal roofing across the East Coast, with over 7 decades of home improvement excellence to our name. We offer only the best roofing systems to protect your home, your family and your possessions for decades to come.

Call or contact us online to request a quote and schedule a free, in-home consultation!