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When it’s time to replace your roof, the endless material options can make it feel like a guessing game. One name you’ll keep running into is “composition roof”. But what is a composition roof, and is it really the right move for your home? Whether you’re planning a fresh build or upgrading an older roof, knowing the facts will help you make a smart, cost-effective decision that lasts.
Our roofing services team regularly installs this roofing option as it strikes an excellent balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. In this guide, we’ll break down what a composition roof really is, what it brings to the table, where it falls short, and how it compares to other roofing choices.
What Is a Composition Roof?
A composition roof, or a composite roof derives its name from how it's made — a composition of different materials engineered to work together. Most composition shingles feature a fiberglass mat or organic base that's saturated with asphalt and then coated with mineral granules for protection against UV rays and weather elements.
The way these materials work together gives you a roof that’s affordable, quick to install, and strong enough to handle different climates. That’s why you see composition roofs on so many homes across the country.
Benefits and Drawbacks of a Composition Roof
Before committing to a composition roof replacement, it's important to weigh both the advantages and limitations of this roofing choice.
Benefits That Matter to Homeowners
Composition roofs offer several compelling advantages that explain their popularity in the roofing industry. Here's what makes them attractive to so many homeowners:
- Versatility: Composition shingles come in countless colors, textures, and styles to complement any architectural design.
- Cost savings: Composition shingles usually cost a lot less than metal, clay, or slate.
- Fire safety: Many options carry a Class A fire rating, which is the best you can get.
- Easier installs: Because they’re easier to work with, you can often save on labor costs.
- Recyclability: Many modern composition shingles can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Of course, no roof is perfect. Here are a few things to think about:
- Shorter lifespan: Typically last 15-30 years, which is shorter than premium materials like metal or slate.
- Environmental factors: Traditional asphalt composition shingles are petroleum-based products.
- Maintenance requirements: May require more attention and higher maintenance requirements in extreme weather conditions.
Still, for a lot of homeowners, the value and flexibility you get with composition roofing make it a smart investment. With the right care and expert installation, you can count on your composition roof to protect your home for years.
Types of Composition Roofs
The term "composition roof" covers several different materials, each offering distinct advantages depending on the home’s needs. While asphalt shingles lead the way in popularity, several composite options provide strong, long-lasting alternatives worth considering.
Asphalt Shingles Roofing
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used composition roofing choice. Built from a fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt and finished with mineral granules, they provide a durable layer of defense against weather and UV exposure. The manufacturing process creates a strong product that performs well across different climates. Asphalt shingles come in three main types:
Homeowners appreciate asphalt shingles because they deliver a strong balance of cost, reliability, and design options to fit many types of homes and budgets.
Best for: Homeowners who want an affordable, flexible roofing system with dependable performance across different styles.
Composite Slate Roofing
Composite slate roofing delivers the upscale look of natural slate without the heavy weight or complex installation. Made from recycled plastic, rubber, and polymer blends, these materials mimic real slate’s texture while offering modern performance. They’re highly durable with lifespans of 40-50 years and much lighter than real slate, so no extra structural support is needed.
Best for: Homeowners who love the classic look of slate but need more practical installation and maintenance requirements, composite slate delivers an appealing compromise.
Composite Cedar Shake Roofing
Composite cedar shake roofing captures the rustic charm of traditional wood shakes while eliminating ongoing maintenance concerns. Engineered to replicate the texture and look of natural cedar, these modern materials resist warping, splitting, and insect damage. They also provide improved fire resistance and boast lifespans of 40-50 years with minimal upkeep.
Best for: Homeowners who want the look of natural wood without the high maintenance or vulnerability to moisture and pests.
Composite Tile Roofing
Composite tile roofing gives homes the classic look of clay or concrete tiles without putting heavy stress on the roof. Using lightweight engineered materials, these tiles achieve the Mediterranean or Spanish style that many homeowners love. They are built to resist cracking, fading, and storm damage while fitting standard roof systems. Composite tile roofs usually last between 40 and 50 years with professional installation.
Best for: Homeowners who want the tile look with easier installation, lighter weight, and better long-term protection.
How Much Does a Composition Roof Cost?
The cost of a composition roof depends on several important factors, including the type of material you choose, your home’s size and roof design, labor rates in your area, and whether an old roof needs to be torn off first. Location also matters, as regional pricing differences can impact both labor and material costs.
While the upfront investment might seem high, it’s important to factor in the long-term value. Most composition roofs offer a return on investment (ROI) between 60% and 70%, helping you recover a significant portion through increased home value.
Composition Roofs vs. Other Roofing Materials
Making a smart roofing choice means understanding how composition materials stack up against other popular options. Every material comes with its own strengths and trade-offs.
Composition Roofing vs. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has gained popularity for its exceptional durability and modern aesthetic. Here's how these materials compare:
- Lifespan: Metal roofing often lasts 40-70 years, much longer than standard composition shingles.
- Cost comparison: Metal generally costs two to three times more than composition roofing.
- Aesthetics: Metal has a more contemporary look, while composition offers a range of traditional styles.
- Noise: Metal can be louder during rain or hail if insulation isn’t installed properly.
For homeowners seeking maximum longevity and willing to make a larger upfront investment, metal presents compelling advantages. However, composite roofing continues to offer exceptional value for those prioritizing immediate budget considerations.
Composition Roofing vs. Natural Wood Shakes
Wood shakes have a distinct, rustic look, but they come with extra maintenance demands. Here's how they stack up:
- Maintenance: Natural wood needs regular sealing, cleaning, and repairs; composition needs far less upkeep.
- Fire resistance: Composition roofing offers stronger protection against fire than untreated wood shakes.
- Environmental impact: Composite materials often use recycled content, while wood is renewable but resource-heavy.
- Appearance: Natural wood has unmatched variation, but composite options now closely replicate the real thing.
Composite cedar shake options deliver similar aesthetics with dramatically reduced maintenance requirements, making them increasingly popular among homeowners who appreciate the look of wood without the upkeep.
Composition Roofing vs. Natural Slate Roofing
Natural slate represents the premium tier of roofing materials, known for exceptional longevity and distinctive appearance. Here's the comparison:
- Weight: Natural slate is extremely heavy and needs extra structural support; composite is much lighter.
- Installation: Slate requires highly specialized installation; composite is simpler and faster to install.
- Durability: Natural slate can last over 100 years; composite slate typically lasts 40-50 years.
- Cost: Natural slate can cost three to five times more than composite options.
Composite slate offers a practical middle ground, delivering much of the aesthetic appeal of natural slate without the extreme weight, installation complexity, and cost.
Composition Roofing vs. Concrete and Clay Tile
Tile roofing creates a bold, recognizable style, especially for Mediterranean, Spanish, or mission-style homes. Here's how it compares:
- Weight factors: Traditional clay or concrete tiles require reinforced roof structures; composite tile is much lighter.
- Fragility: Clay and concrete can crack easily under impact; composite tiles are built to handle stronger hits.
- Weather resilience: Both perform well, but composite can offer better protection against freeze-thaw cycles.
- Cost effectiveness: Composite tile usually costs less than real clay or concrete tiles.
For homeowners who want the distinctive look of tile roofing without the extra weight or structural upgrades, composite tile is a smart and practical choice.
Is a Composition Roof Right for Your Home and Climate?
Choosing the right roofing material requires considering your specific circumstances, including your home's architectural style, local climate, budget, and long-term plans. Here's when different composite roofing options might make the most sense:
- Cold/snowy climates: Architectural shingles or composite slate handle snow well and resist ice damage.
- Humid areas: Composite shake resists mold and moisture better than natural wood.
- Hot and sunny: Energy-efficient shingles reflect UV rays and help lower cooling bills.
- High-wind zones: Dimensional shingles and luxury shingles offer better wind resistance.
- Budget projects: 3-tab asphalt shingles provide reliable coverage at the lowest cost.
- Long-term investment: Premium composite materials with extended warranties deliver decades of protection.
For homeowners in Illinois, composition roofing performs exceptionally well with our variable climate. Quality composition shingles are engineered to handle the freeze-thaw cycles of Midwest winters while providing effective water-shedding during heavy rainfall and appropriate insulation for both summer heat and winter cold.
