Synthetic Slate specialists for the Washington, D.C. Metro Area
Whether you are in need of a replacement of an existing synthetic slate roof or would like to replace your current roof with synthetic slate, American Custom Contractors offers several options and the expertise needed to install this specialty product. Our team has years of combined experience and can address all your questions and needs.
What is a synthetic slate roof?
Synthetic tiles are a modern improvement on a construction classic. Made from combinations of plastic and rubber, and designed to mirror the beauty and uniqueness of authentic slate without the expense or installation headaches.
They’re made by molding materials into forms that are cast from natural slate. Some brands of synthetic tiles are manufactured with virgin rubber or plastic, while other products incorporate recycled rubber or plastic, mineral dust, or cellulose fibers. Recycled content usually consists of high-quality post-industrial materials; only a few incorporate post-consumer recycled material.
Here’s a look at the benefits of synthetic slate
Synthetics are considered a “green” building alternative—even those that use virgin materials—because all types of tiles can be recycled at the end of a roof’s usable life.
Synthetic tiles are more durable than authentic slate, as they contain advanced ultraviolet inhibitors to reduce wear from the sun.
Safety is built-in. Synthetic slate typically contains impact modifiers to help withstand storm damage; in fact, most are certified by Underwriters Laboratories for Class 4 impact resistance, the highest level for roofing materials. Many synthetic slates also have the highest fire-resistance rating—Class A—which means they’re effective against severe exposure to external fires, are not readily flammable and do not spread fire.
Because they are lighter than all asphalt shingles and, at 1.25 pounds per tile, are only a quarter the weight of natural slate shingles. Their light weight also means that a standard roof structure can support synthetic tile with no special reinforcement, making them practical for mainstream residential construction. During installation, synthetic slate tiles can easily be field-cut with a utility knife and nailed into place with standard roofing nails and a pneumatic nail gun.
Unlike less expensive asphalt shingles, synthetic slate roofs can last for up to 100 years, and the majority of synthetic slate shingles have 50-year manufacturer warranties. The long life expectancy of this material means that a roof doesn’t have to be replaced in 15 or even 30 years, and also has fewer repair needs during the roof’s lifetime.
If your home has sustained damages from a recent wind or hail storm, please contact us about our free inspection services for storm damage! You may qualify for a new roof through your homeowner’s insurance policy!
When you need professional roofing services, call American Custom Contractors at (301) 417-1000 schedule an appointment today!
