Benefits of Choosing Composite Roofing for Your Home

Composite Roofing has really come into its own over the past decade. If you’re weighing your options for a new roof, you’ll find that composite roofing blends lasting performance with style, making it a durable option for homeowners—and all without breaking the bank. The growing market for composite roofing reflects its increasing popularity and demand among homeowners seeking reliable, long-lasting solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Composite roofing lasts up to 50 years or more with minimal upkeep, making it a smart long-term investment.
• You get the look of slate, cedar shake, or clay tile at a fraction of the cost and weight.
• Eco-friendly options use recycled materials and can even accommodate solar panels for extra energy savings.
• Composite outperforms asphalt shingles, natural slate, and clay tiles in durability, maintenance, and cost.
• Installation requires a qualified roofer, but labor costs are comparable to other premium roofing systems.

Say Hello to Composite: The Roof Reinvented

Composite roofing is made from composite material that combines recycled plastics, fiberglass, rubber materials, and other polymers into shingles or tiles that stand up to weather, sun, and time. In Central Texas, where summer heat can spike above 100°F and hailstorms are all too common, you need a roof system that won’t falter after a few seasons.

Imagine a roofing product that looks like natural slate, cedar shakes, or other natural counterparts such as clay tiles, but weighs only half as much and won’t crack when a hailstone lands. That’s composite roofing in a nutshell. Since many manufacturers back their products with 30- to 50-year warranties, you can install it with confidence—and skip the frequent repairs that asphalt shingles demand. It’s important to hire qualified contractors for installation to ensure the best results and maximize warranty benefits.

The rise in composite’s popularity isn’t just about performance. Homeowners in Austin and beyond appreciate the broad palette of colors and styles—everything from rustic wood textures, including cedar shakes, to smooth tile looks. You’ll find a roofing product to complement traditional Hill Country homes or the sleek lines of modern architecture.

With awareness around sustainability on the upswing, composite roofs also earn props for using recycled content, such as rubber materials, and being recyclable at the end of their life cycle. And if you decide to add solar panels later, many composite roofs can support the extra load without fuss. When choosing the right roof, consider your climate, budget, and style preferences to select the right roofing material for your specific needs.

Benefits of Composite Roofing

Composite roofing delivers a suite of advantages that make it a top choice for homeowners:

Durability That Lasts

Composite roofs routinely last 50 years or longer. Unlike asphalt shingles, which can become brittle and curl in Texas heat after 20–25 years, composite stands firm against UV rays, freeze-thaw cycles, and hail impacts, providing reliable protection and energy savings year-round.

Low Maintenance

You won’t need to tarp or patch small leaks every few years. Composite resists mold, mildew, cracking, and granule loss, dramatically cutting your ongoing upkeep costs.

Aesthetic Versatility

Whether you want the rugged look of slate, the charm of cedar shake, or the smooth curves of clay tile, composite roofing has you covered—literally. Most lines offer a dozen-plus color and texture choices to match your home’s style.

Eco-Friendly Construction

Many composite shingles contain 25–50% recycled materials, such as reclaimed plastics or rubber. At end of life, they can be recycled again instead of piling up in a landfill. Composite roofing can also improve your home’s energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer and lowering energy costs. Choosing sustainable roofing helps combat climate change by reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, if you pair your composite roof with solar panels, you boost your home’s green credentials even further.

Fire Resistance

Composite roofing often carries a Class A fire rating—the highest available—and frequently achieves the highest rating for both impact and fire resistance. That means better protection for your home and potential savings on insurance premiums.

Lightweight Profile

Unlike natural slate or clay tile, composite weighs significantly less—often under 300 pounds per square (100 sq ft). That reduces stress on your home’s structure and may avoid costly reinforcement work.

Many composite roofing products also come with a lifetime limited material warranty, providing long-term peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Types of Composite Roofing

Composite roofing comes in several variations, each with its own flair:

1. Composite Shingles
   • Designed to mimic asphalt shingle layouts but with enhanced durability and style.
   • Available in architectural (dimensional) or designer lines for a premium appearance.
2. Slate-Like Composite Tiles
   • Replicate the look of quarried slate without the weight or fragility.
   • Often thicker and heavier than standard composite shingles for that authentic profile.
3. Clay-Tile Alternatives
   • Feature curved profiles and deep color tones reminiscent of Spanish-style roofs.
   • It is easier to install and less prone to breakage than real clay tiles.
4. Cedar Shake and Shingle Replicas
   • Offer the rustic, textured look of wood without the risk of rot, insects, or warping.
   • Typically treated to resist fading and storm damage.
5. Designer Shingles
   • Advanced composites with layered textures, shadow lines, and intricate shapes.
   • For homeowners who want a truly one-of-a-kind roof.

Cost and Labor

Budgeting for a composite roof involves materials and labor, both of which vary based on style, roof complexity, and region. Labor cost is a key factor in the total installation expenses.

Material Costs

• Composite shingles: $4–$6 per square foot
• Slate-style tiles: $6–$8 per square foot
• Clay-tile look-alikes: $7–$9 per square foot

Labor Costs

• Installation: $3–$5 per square foot, depending on roof pitch, deck condition, and disposal of existing materials.
• Removal of old roof: $1–$2 per square foot extra if tear-off is required.

In Central Texas, a typical 2,000 square foot roof replacement can range from $14,000 to $28,000 all in. While that may feel like a chunk of change, remember that a composite roof outlasts an asphalt roof by 20+ years and carries lower maintenance costs over its lifetime. Asphalt roofs are initially more affordable per square foot, but they have a shorter lifespan and higher long-term maintenance costs compared to composite. When compared to other roof types, composite roofs also require less frequent cleaning and are less prone to mold and algae growth, reducing labor and upkeep. Considering all roof types, composite offers a strong balance of durability, lower labor cost over time, and reduced maintenance.

Eco-Friendly Options

If reducing your carbon footprint matters to you, composite roofing offers several green pathways:

• Recycled Content: Look for products with a high percentage of post-consumer plastics or rubber sourced from tires.
• Recyclability: Some manufacturers will take back old composite shingles for grinding into new products.
• Solar Integration: Composite’s sturdy deck support makes adding solar panels easier—maximizing energy savings and ROI on your installation.
• Cool Roof Coatings: Reflective finishes reduce heat absorption, keeping your attic cooler and cutting A/C usage (and bills) during Texas summers.

By choosing eco-friendly composite, you’re helping keep waste out of landfills and cutting your home’s energy consumption—good news for you and the planet.

Environmentally Friendly Features

Beyond recycled content, composite roofing shines in its resilience:

• Class 4 Impact Resistance: The highest hail rating available, ensuring dents and cracks are a thing of the past.
• Fire Resistance: Meets stringent standards to slow flame spread and protect your home.
• Mold and Algae Inhibition: Engineered surfaces resist biological growth, preserving appearance and integrity.
• Longevity: A 50-year lifespan means fewer replacements, less waste, and lower resource usage overall.

Comparison to Other Materials

When you stack composite against common alternatives, it’s clear why many homeowners make the switch:

Material	Lifespan	Weight	Maintenance	Cost per Sq Ft
Asphalt Shingles	20–25 years	240–300 lbs	High (repairs)	$2–$4
Natural Slate	75–100 years	800–1,200 lbs	Low	$10–$15
Clay Tiles	50–75 years	600–900 lbs	Medium (regrouting)	$8–$12
Composite Roofing	50+ years	200–400 lbs	Very Low	$4–$9

Composite bridges the gap—offering slate-level durability at a clay-tile or asphalt price point, without the structural reinforcements or upkeep those materials demand.

Comparison to Cedar Shake

When comparing composite roofing materials to cedar shake, homeowners will notice both options offer distinct advantages, but composite roofs often come out ahead in several key areas. Cedar shake has long been admired for its natural beauty and rustic charm, making it a favorite for those seeking a traditional look. However, composite roofing materials are engineered to replicate the aesthetic appeal of cedar shake while delivering enhanced performance and sustainability.

One of the standout benefits of composite roofs is their use of recycled materials, such as recycled plastic and rubber. This not only reduces the need for new raw materials but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with roof replacements. In contrast, cedar shake relies on harvesting natural materials, which can contribute to deforestation and requires significant processing before installation.

Durability is another area where composite roofing materials excel. While cedar shake is naturally durable, it is still susceptible to mold, cracking, and damage from the elements over time—especially in regions with high humidity or severe weather. Composite roofs, on the other hand, are designed to resist these common issues, offering a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution. Many manufacturers back their composite roofing products with lifetime limited material warranties, giving homeowners added peace of mind.

Maintenance is also simpler with composite roofing. Unlike cedar shake, which may require regular treatments to prevent mold and decay, composite materials are engineered to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep. This translates to lower long-term costs and less hassle for homeowners.

Of course, some homeowners are drawn to the unique, natural appearance of cedar shake, and no synthetic product can fully replicate the character of real wood. However, today’s composite roofing materials come remarkably close, offering a wide range of colors and textures that mimic the look of cedar while providing superior performance.

Ultimately, the choice between cedar shake and composite roofing materials comes down to personal preference, budget, and priorities. For those seeking a durable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective roofing material that stands up to the elements and reduces environmental impact, composite roofs are an excellent option.

Roofing Options

Choosing the right composite profile depends on your home’s style, budget, and performance needs:

• Budget-Friendly Lines: Basic composite shingles in popular colors—perfect for straightforward replacements.
• Premium Designer Series: Layered textures, shadowed edges, and color blends for high-end curb appeal.
• Eco-Plus Collections: Products with the highest recycled content, paired with reflective coatings.
• Solar-Ready Decks: Systems designed to integrate PV panels seamlessly—ideal if you’re planning a solar upgrade.

Discuss options with your roofer and request physical samples. Seeing colors on your own home can prevent buyer’s remorse down the road.

Maintenance and Repair

One of composite’s biggest benefits is how little you need to do:

• Routine Inspections: Twice a year—spring and fall—walk the perimeter, clear debris, and check for any displaced shingles.
• Minor Repairs: Unlike asphalt, you rarely need to replace individual shingles. If damage occurs, your contractor can swap out panels in minutes.
• Cleaning: A garden hose rinse keeps dust and pollen from settling. Avoid power washing to prevent surface damage.
• Gutter Care: Keep gutters clear to prevent water backup under eaves—this protects both your deck and shingle edges.

With minimal maintenance, your composite roof stays strong and good-looking with just an hour of care per year.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation ensures you get the full benefit of composite roofing:

1. Qualified Contractor
   • Ensure they’re licensed, insured, and experienced with composite systems.
   • Check manufacturer certification—many warranties require certified installers.
2. Deck Preparation
   • Inspect the plywood or OSB deck; replace any rotten sections.
   • Install drip edge around eaves and rake edges for clean lines.
3. Underlayment & Ventilation
   • Use high-performance synthetic underlayment for moisture barrier.
   • Confirm proper attic ventilation to avoid heat buildup under shingles.
4. Flashing & Fasteners
   • Flash around chimneys, vents, and valleys with metal or reinforced membranes.
   • Use corrosion-resistant nails or screws per manufacturer specs.
5. Permits & Inspection
   • Your contractor should pull local permits and schedule code inspections.
   • A signed-off project protects warranty coverage and resale value.

If you’re ready to explore composite roofing options, check out our Composite Roofing Services page for more details and to request a free estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is composite roofing made of?
A: Composite roofing is made from recycled plastics, rubber and polymers – sometimes with mineral fillers – to create durable, weather resistant shingles or tiles that mimic natural materials.

How long does composite roofing last?
A: Most composite roofs have 30- to 50-year warranties and many systems go beyond 50 years in service life when installed and maintained properly.

Is composite roofing more expensive than asphalt?
A: Upfront cost is 25–50% more than standard asphalt shingles but you save on maintenance and replacement costs in the long run making composite very cost effective.

Can composite roofing handle Texas hail and heat?
A: Yes – composite shingles have a Class 4 impact rating (highest hail protection) and resist UV induced warping or fading even under intense Central Texas sun.

Are composite shingles eco-friendly?
A: Many brands use significant post-consumer recycled content and offer recycling programs at end of life. Combined with their long life, composite roofs reduce overall environmental impact.

How do I clean and maintain composite shingles?
A: Just hose down twice a year, clear gutters of debris and inspect for any displaced panels. Do not pressure wash to protect the surface texture.

Can I install solar panels on a composite roof?
A: Yes. Composite’s stable deck support and engineered profiles make it easy to mount solar systems. Just hire a solar installer experienced with composite roofing attachments.

Will a composite roof increase my home’s resale value?
A: Yes. Buyers love the durability, low maintenance and attractive appearance of composite roofing. A modern composite roof can boost curb appeal and justify a higher asking price.

Wrapping Up Your Composite Roofing Journey

In summary, composite roofing materials are a smart investment for homeowners who want a roof that combines the best of durability, sustainability and style. Unlike traditional natural roofing materials like cedar shake or natural slate, composite roofs are made from advanced materials that offer better weather resistance, energy efficiency and low maintenance – all while reducing environmental impact.When planning a roofing project consider not just the upfront cost but the long term benefits. Composite roofing materials may be more expensive upfront than some other options but their long term performance, low maintenance and potential energy savings make them cost effective in the long run. Many manufacturers offer robust warranties so your investment is protected for decades.

Choosing the right roofing contractor is also important. Look for professionals with experience installing composite roofs as proper installation is key to getting the most out of your new roof. Don’t forget to factor in labor costs and the reputation of the manufacturer when making your decision.

By choosing composite roofing materials homeowners can get the look of natural materials like slate or cedar shake without the headaches of frequent repairs or environmental concerns. Eco-friendly, durable roofs use recycled content and reduce the need for new raw materials.

As the roofing industry evolves composite roofing materials will be the go-to solution for those who want a beautiful, long lasting and environmentally friendly roof. With the right planning and installation your composite roof will provide protection, energy efficiency and curb appeal for years to come.