Specialty Roofing Materials: Are They Worth the Investment?

Are you considering a specialty roofing product for your home, but unsure if it's worth the investment? 

Do you have questions about the cost, durability, and maintenance of these materials? 

We understand that choosing the right roofing material for your home can be a daunting task. That's why RoofCrafters is here to help. With 30 years of experience in the roofing industry. We've installed and maintained many specialty roofing systems for our clients. We've seen firsthand the benefits and drawbacks of these materials. And we've done our best to answer all the tough questions our clients have about these products. Now we want to do the same for you.

In this article, we'll provide an overview of the most popular specialty roofing materials. Including the pros and cons, and the costs associated with each. We hope that our insights will help you make a better-informed decision about which specialty roofing product is right for your home.

Let's dive right in.

Top Specialty Roofing Products for Your Home: A Comprehensive Overview

If you're in the market for a specialty roofing product, you'll want to consider the five materials listed below. Each one offers a unique blend of style, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They're ideal for homeowners who want a roof that'll stand out and stand the test of time. 

So without further ado, here are the specialty roofing materials you'll want to know about:

1. Decra metal roofing (tile, shake, and shingle)
2. Davinci synthetic shakes
3. Brava synthetic barrel tile
4. Ecostar synthetic slate
5. F-Wave synthetic slate and shake shingles
   
   

Decra Roofing System: Pros, Cons, and Cost

Stone-coated Decra metal roofing is a premium metal roofing system that offers a range of styles to fit any home's design. It's a great option for homeowners who want the durability and strength of metal roofing. Without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials. 

It's a great option if you're wanting a long-lasting roofing solution that can withstand extreme weather conditions. It's also great for those who want to increase the value of their home and save on energy costs.

Here are the pros and cons and cost of Decra roofing:

Pros:

• Durable: Can last for up to 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.

• High Wind Resistance: Tested and certified to withstand wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour, making it ideal for areas prone to high winds.

• Increased Home Value: Installing Decra metal roofing can increase the value of your home.

• Energy Efficient: Reflects the sun's rays, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce energy bills.

• Lightweight: It's a great alternative to heavy clay, concrete, or slate tiles. It can be installed over your existing wood decking without needing extra structural support.

Cons:

• Increased Cost: It's more expensive than traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles.

• Installation: Must be installed by a professional with experience. Preferably working with Decra metal roofing systems. This can increase the cost of installation over less specialized products.

• Noise: Decra metal roofing can still be noisier than traditional roofing materials during rain or hail storms.

• Potential for color fading: As with any roofing material, Decra metal roofing can fade over time due to exposure to the elements.

• Potential for denting: While Decra metal roofing is durable, it can be susceptible to denting from large hail or falling tree branches.

Cost: 

The exact cost of Decra metal roofing will depend on several factors. Factors such as the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $12 to $19 per square foot for Decra roofing installation.

Davinci Synthetic Shakes: Pros, Cons, and Cost

A roofing material that looks like natural wood shakes but doesn't come with the high cost and maintenance requirements. Davinci synthetic shakes can add massive curb appeal to almost any home. 

Made from a composite material that combines virgin resins and UV inhibitors. Davinci synthetic shakes offer the look of real wood without the risk of rot, insects, or fire.

Here are the pros and cons and cost of Davinci synthetic shakes:

Pros: 

Low maintenance: They need very little maintenance and do not need to be treated like natural wood shakes. 

Fire-resistant: They're Class A Fire Rated, meaning they offer superior fire protection for your home. 

Durable: Davinci can withstand extreme weather conditions and resist fading, rotting, and warping. 

Eco-friendly: Davinci synthetic shakes come from 100% recyclable materials and can be recycled. 

Versatile: Davinci synthetic shakes come in a range of colors and styles to fit any home's design. 

Cons:

Higher upfront cost: Davinci synthetic shakes are more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles. 

Less authentic appearance: While Davinci synthetic shakes offer a natural wood look, they may not have the same texture or feel as real wood. 

Cost:

The exact cost of Davinci synthetic slate or shakes will depend on the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $13 to $19 per square foot for Davinci synthetic shake roofing installation.

Brava Synthetic Barrel Tile: Pros, Cons, and Cost

If you're looking for a material that offers the look of traditional Spanish clay tiles but without the heavy weight or fragility. Brava synthetic barrel tile may be the right option for you. Made from high-quality, durable materials. Brava barrel tile can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist cracking, fading, and mold growth.

Here are the pros and cons and cost of Brava synthetic barrel tile:

Pros: 

Lightweight: Synthetic tiles are much lighter than traditional clay tiles. They can be installed on roofs that cannot support the weight of heavy clay tiles. 

Durable: They're resistant to damage from impact, fire, and weather. They can last up to 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.

Low maintenance: They're resistant to mold, algae, and other forms of biological growth. They need very little maintenance.

Eco-friendly: Brava synthetic barrel tile is made from 100% recyclable materials and can be recycled after use. 

Cons: 

Higher upfront cost: Brava barrel tile will be more expensive than traditional roofing materials. 

Potential for fading: As with any roofing material, Brava synthetic tile can fade over time due to exposure to the elements. 

Cost:

The exact cost of Brava barrel tile will depend on several factors. Including the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $12 to $19 per square foot for Brava synthetic barrel tile roofing installation.

Ecostar Synthetic Slate: Pros, Cons, and Cost

Ecostar synthetic slate material has been gaining popularity in recent years. Mostly due to its durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. This roofing is made from recycled rubber and plastic, making it an eco-friendly option for homeowners. Ecostar slate is designed to replicate the look of traditional slate roofing materials but with added benefits. 

Here are the pros, cons & costs of Ecostar synthetic slate: 

Pros: 

Durability: Ecostar synthetic slate can last for up to 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. 

Affordable: Ecostar slate is much more affordable than natural slate. While offering a similar appearance.

Low Maintenance: Unlike natural slate roofing, this slate won't need regular maintenance or repairs. Saving you time and money in the long run. 

Energy Efficient: Ecostar slate can reflect the sun's rays. This will help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce energy bills. Eco-Friendly: Ecostar is made from recycled rubber and plastic. It's a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. 

Variety of Colors: Ecostarslate is available in a range of colors, allowing you to choose the best option to complement your home's design. 

Cons: 

Cost: Ecostar slate is more expensive than traditional roofing materials. Materials such as designer asphalt shingles. Making it a larger investment. 

Installation: They must be installed by a professional with experience working with this material. This will increase the cost of installation over less specialized products. 

Less Durable: Ecostar synthetic is a durable option. But it's not as strong as a real slate material.

Color Fading: Ecostar synthetic slate can fade over time due to exposure to UV rays and weather elements.

Cost:

The exact cost of Ecostar synthetic slate will depend on several factors. Including the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $12 to $18 per square foot for Ecostar synthetic slate roofing installation.

F-Wave Synthetic Slate and Shake Shingles: Pros, Cons, and Cost

F-Wave shingles are a new and innovative roofing product made from a combination of PVC and fiberglass materials. These shingles replicate the appearance and texture of traditional slate and shake shingles. Offering you superior performance and durability. F-Wave shingles are also environmentally friendly. They're made from recyclable materials and can be recycled at the end of their life.

Here are the pros, cons, and costs of F-Wave synthetic slate and shake shingles:

Pros: 

Durable: F-Wave shingles have a Class 4 impact resistance rating, which means they can withstand large hailstones and high winds of up to 130 mph. 

Low Maintenance: F-Wave shingles are resistant to mold, algae, and other types of growth. This will reduce maintenance and cleaning requirements. 

Energy Efficient: F-Wave shingles have a reflective surface that can help reduce the amount of heat absorbed by your roof. Reducing your home's cooling costs. 

Lightweight: F-Wave shingles are lightweight and can be installed over existing wood decking. Reducing the need for costly added structural support. 

Fire Resistant: F-Wave shingles are rated as Class A fire-resistant, which will improve the safety of your home in case of a fire. 

Cons: 

Cost: F-Wave is more expensive than traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. 

Appearance: F-Wave shingles replicate the appearance of traditional slate and shake shingles. Some homeowners may prefer the appearance of natural materials. 

Noise: F-Wave shingles can be noisier than traditional roofing materials during rain or hail storms. 

Color Fading: Like any synthetic roofing material, F-Wave shingles can fade over time due to exposure to the elements.

Cost:

The cost of F-Wave synthetic slate and shake shingles can vary depending on several factors. Such as the size of your roof and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $8 to $12 per square foot for F-Wave shingles. 

Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Specialty Roofing Installation

Specialty roofing products are an investment in your home that can provide value for years to come. Whether you choose Decra metal, Davinci shakes, Brava barrel tile, Ecostar slate, or the F-Wave synthetic shingles. You'll enjoy a roofing solution that is durable, energy-efficient, and that will surely enhance your curb appeal.

You must understand the installation of specialty roofing products is critical. It requires a specialized skill set and knowledge. RoofCrafters has been providing our clients with the highest quality installation and service for 30 years. We know the importance of choosing the right product for your home. if you'd like help we can guide you through the selection process to ensure you find the perfect solution for your home.

Because the most important factor in ensuring your investment pays off is finding a company that can install your specialty roof. We've also put together a checklist that'll help you during the interview process. It also has some questions you can ask along with the answers so you'll know what answers to get back.