While most homes have asphalt roof shingles, there are other roofing options available for homeowners who want their property to have a unique look. One alternative is slate. While natural slate is thin and very delicate, synthetic slate roofing is strong and mimics the appearance of the real thing. Also called composite slate shingles, the materials used to manufacture synthetic slate shingles vary by company; they may be made from recycled materials such as plastic or rubber, cellulose fibers or a polymer base. Because there are so many synthetic slate options available, professional Middlesex County roofers can assist in determining if this roofing material is right for the home and for the budget.
One major advantage to installing synthetic slate on roof is that this material is durable and safe. Unfortunately, true natural slate is delicate and prone to cracking in cold weather. This material must be installed during the warm spring or summer months; performing emergency repairs during the cold season can be extremely difficult. Synthetic slate, on the other hand, is not affected by temperature changes. Because of this, some high-quality materials may even have lifetime warranty under certain installation conditions.
When it comes to safety, synthetic slate shingles are specifically designed to withstand storm damage. Many types have a Class 4 impact rating, which is the highest rating level for roofing materials. Many synthetic shingles even have a Class A fire-resistance rating, meaning that they are not readily flammable and are less likely to spread fire.
Synthetic slate is often considered eco-friendly because many types of synthetic slate are made from recycled materials. Synthetic slate that is made from virgin materials can be reused once the roof has reached the end of its life.
As with any roofing material, synthetic slate does have a few disadvantages. While slate is easier to install than natural slate, it can still be difficult to install. If the shingles are not properly installed, the laminate or composite cores can potentially crack. The selection process can also be difficult for homeowners because there are so many types of synthetic slate shingles on the market. Each type of shingle has its own slight advantages or disadvantages, which may or may not make them an appropriate choice for a particular home. It is highly recommended that a homeowner who is considering installing synthetic slate should consult with a contractor who can help them narrow down their options. The roofers at Fortified Roofing of Middlesex County NJ can answer your questions regarding roof repairs or new roofs.
Term from the roofers at Fortified Roofing, Middlesex County NJ:
Synthetic
Synthetic materials are defined as being made by humans and do not consist of natural materials. Synthetic materials cannot be found in nature and are manufactured by combining plastics, artificial fibers or even chemical synthesis.
The roofers from Middlesex County, NJ of Fortified Roofing answer a common question:
What types of synthetic slate shingles are available?
Synthetic slate shingles can be made from a number of materials. Some are made from plastic or polymer composite and often look like natural slate. Clay-based shingles are essentially clay tiles that were designed to mimic slate. Some may also have a fiber cement base while others are manufactured using a combination of recycled rubber and plastic.
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