What Is a Composition Roof? Everything Northeast Ohio Homeowners Should Know

A composition roof is one of the most popular and cost-effective roofing options available to the Northeast Ohio homeowner. Another common term for a composition roof is an asphalt roof.

But what is a composition roof, exactly? It refers to a roofing system made of multiple man-made materials—typically a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules, with the asphalt shingle being a primary example of this roofing type.

Key Takeaways

• Composition roofs combine asphalt, fiberglass, and granules to form durable shingles.
• Types include 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles.
• Asphalt shingles offer good value, wide variety, and exceptional durability.
• Cost effectiveness: Composition and shingle roofing are affordable, long-lasting, and a smart investment for homeowners.
• Proper maintenance can help a composition roof last 20 to 50 years.
• Composition roofing is ideal for Northeast Ohio’s varying seasons and high winds.

What Are Composition Roofs Made Of?

Composition shingles, also called asphalt shingles, are built from layers. At the core is a fiberglass mat—a type of roofing material that gives strength without excessive weight. This base is coated in asphalt, which serves as a waterproof layer.

On top, mineral granules add UV protection and give the shingles their color and textured appearance. The main materials and key roofing components work together to create a durable roof system that protects your home from the elements.

Types of Composition Shingles

Northeast Ohio homeowners can choose from several types of composition shingles, each with its pros and cons:

• 3-tab shingles: These are the most basic and affordable option, offering a flat, uniform appearance.
• Architectural shingles: Also known as dimensional shingles, these provide a more layered, textured look and improved durability compared to 3-tab shingles.
• Luxury shingles: These often feature a slate look and are considered the most durable type of composition shingle, designed for maximum strength and longevity.

Three Tab Shingles

Also known as 3-tab shingles, these are flat, uniform, and budget-friendly. They’re lightweight and easy to install but offer the shortest composition roof lifespan—usually 15 to 25 years.

Architectural Shingles

Also called dimensional shingles, these have a layered, textured surface that mimics wood shake roofs. Architectural shingles are stronger and last longer than tab shingles.

Luxury Shingles

Luxury shingles are the top-tier option. Designed to replicate the look of slate roofs or cedar shake roofs, they provide enhanced thickness, strength, and curb appeal. A luxury composition shingle roof can often last 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance.

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Why Many Homeowners Choose Composition Roofs

The roofing industry has evolved, but composition roofs remain a top pick for several good reasons. Shingle roofing is also a popular choice among homeowners due to its reliability and wide range of options:

• Affordable Composition Roof Cost: Compared to slate tiles, metal roofs, or wood shakes, composite shingles are more budget-friendly.
• Versatile Roofing Options: They come in various styles, colors, and textures to match your home’s design, and shingle roofs offer excellent versatility for different architectural styles.
• Exceptional Durability: These shingles resist wind, moisture, and UV rays, making shingle roofs a durable and protective solution.
• Ease of Installation: Most roofing companies can install asphalt roofing quickly and efficiently.
• Adaptable Roof Types: Work well for many slopes and shapes, from gables to hips.

Whether you’re building new or scheduling a roof replacement, composition shingles remain one of the best roofing options for residential properties. For those interested in learning more about related materials, asphalt roofs are another excellent roofing option to consider.

Understanding a Composition Roof’s Lifespan

How long a composition roof lasts depends on the materials, installation, and maintenance. Other factors, such as ventilation, attic insulation, and weather exposure, also play a significant role in determining roof longevity. Here’s a general guide to the typical lifespan of asphalt shingle roofs:

• 3-tab shingles: 15–25 years
• Architectural shingles: 25–30+ years
• Luxury shingles: 30–50 years

Regular maintenance, including routine inspections and debris removal, is essential to extend the life of composition roofs and prevent costly repairs. Scheduling a composition roof replacement before problems escalate is key.

What to Watch Out For

Even composite roofs have their drawbacks:

• Storm Sensitivity: Like other roofing materials, composite roofs can suffer damage from hail or heavy wind.
• Algae or Moss Growth: Especially in shaded areas.
• Not as Green: Though some composite roof shingles use recycled content, asphalt roofing isn’t the most eco-friendly.

It’s important to remember that a roof system is more than just the shingles—proper care and maintenance of the entire roof, including all its components, is essential for longevity and preventing the need for a full replacement.

Still, with proper maintenance and inspections, the benefits far outweigh these issues.

Composition Roof vs. Other Roofing Materials

How does a composition roof compare to other roofing materials?

• Versus Metal Roofs: Composite shingles are more affordable and easier to repair but don’t last as long.
• Versus Slate Roofs: Slate offers unmatched longevity but comes with a higher cost and weight.
• Versus Wood Shake Roofs: Wood shakes offer natural beauty but need more maintenance and are vulnerable to fire.

When evaluating your next roofing project, weigh cost, appearance, longevity, and local climate. The choice of roofing material, especially when considering asphalt or composition shingles, will directly impact both the cost and frequency of roof replacements. Composite roofs often strike the right balance.

FAQs About Composition Roofs

What is a composition roof made of?
It’s made of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules layered to create durable, weather-resistant shingles.

Are composition shingles the same as asphalt shingles?
Yes, composition shingles and asphalt shingles are interchangeable terms in the roofing industry.

How much does a composition roof cost?
Prices vary based on shingle type, square footage, and labor, but it’s often less expensive than metal or slate roofing.

Can a composition roof be installed over an existing roof?
Sometimes, yes. But it depends on local codes and the condition of your current roof system.

Do composition shingles come with a warranty?
Yes. Many manufacturers offer a lifetime limited warranty on higher-end shingles.

Ready for a Roof You Can Rely On?

If you’re considering a new roof or thinking about composition roof replacement, Royalty Roofing offers free inspections, certified installers, and high-performance materials. Our roofing company serves Northeast Ohio with professionalism and care. Schedule your free estimate today by calling (330) 362-4700 or visiting our roof replacement page.