Noise wasn’t a dealbreaker for me either, but I get why people ask. I’ve lived under both composite and metal, and composite is way quieter than metal, but yeah, maybe a touch louder than old-school asphalt. Like you said, once you’ve got insulation and an attic, it’s not something you really notice unless you’re listening for it. I actually find the sound kind of relaxing, but maybe that’s just me.
On the moss front, totally agree—north-facing slopes are always going to be a bit of a pain. I’m in the PNW, so moss is basically a given. I switched to composite partly because it’s less porous than asphalt, so it doesn’t hold onto moisture as much, but you still get that green fuzz if you don’t keep up. I use a soft brush and a little diluted vinegar every couple years, and it keeps things under control. Never had it get bad enough to cause damage.
Cost-wise, I did the same math. Asphalt was cheaper up front, but after replacing it twice in 25 years, I was over it. Composite’s initial price stung a bit, but I haven’t had to touch it since install, and that peace of mind is worth something. I do a quick walk-around every spring just to check for cracked tiles or issues around the flashing—nothing major so far.
One thing I’ve wondered: has anyone tried the newer “cool roof” composite tiles? Supposedly they reflect more sunlight and keep the attic cooler. I’m curious if that actually makes a noticeable difference in summer, especially for folks in hotter climates. Anyone seen a drop in AC bills after switching?
- Totally with you on the moss—PNW roofs just attract it, no matter what. I’ve tried a few “eco” moss treatments but honestly, regular brushing and vinegar like you said works best for me too.
- Composite’s been solid for me maintenance-wise. I do wish I’d gone with a lighter color, though—mine’s dark and it does soak up heat in summer.
- On the “cool roof” tiles: my neighbor put them on last year (we’re in central CA, gets toasty). He swears his attic’s noticeably cooler, but his AC bills only dropped a bit. Maybe more noticeable if your insulation isn’t great?
- If you’re thinking green, some of the new composites are made with recycled materials. Not a huge difference in price, but feels better long-term.
- Only real gripe: they’re a little slick when wet, so be careful if you’re up there cleaning.
Composite’s been solid for me maintenance-wise. I do wish I’d gone with a lighter color, though—mine’s dark and it does soak up heat in summer.
I’m right there with you on the color thing. I picked a darker gray because it looked sharp, but now I’m regretting it every time the sun comes out. The attic gets noticeably warmer, and I swear the AC kicks on way more than it should. If I could do it over, I’d go with something way lighter, even if it doesn’t look as “modern.”
On the moss—yeah, PNW roofs are just doomed to get green. I tried some fancy moss killer too, but honestly, a stiff brush and vinegar is what actually works. Just gotta stay on top of it.
One thing I’ll say about composites: they’re quieter than I expected in the rain, which is a nice bonus. But yeah, they’re slick when wet. Nearly ate it last fall cleaning out the gutters. Not sure if that’s just my pitch or the material, but it’s no joke.
Overall, I don’t regret switching from asphalt, but there are definitely trade-offs. If you’re in a hot area or have poor insulation, maybe spring for those “cool roof” tiles or at least a lighter shade.
That’s such a familiar story with the dark colors. It’s wild how much roof color affects the inside temp, especially when the sun’s out for days. I went with a mid-tone brown composite, thinking it’d be a happy medium, but even that gets toasty in July. Honestly, I’d probably lean toward a paler shade next time too, even if it looks a little less sleek.
Totally agree on the “slippery when wet” thing. The first time I tried to clear off needles after a rain, I nearly went for a slide. Not sure if it’s just the composite or if my roof’s pitch is part of it, but it definitely keeps me cautious.
The moss is just relentless up here. I’ve tried a couple of those eco-friendly moss treatments, but I keep coming back to the brush and vinegar routine too. It’s not glamorous, but it does the trick and doesn’t leave weird residue. Just wish there was a way to keep it off for good... but that’s life in the PNW, I guess.
On the bright side, I love how much quieter it is inside during a downpour. My old metal roof sounded like being inside a drum set. The composite makes it feel so much cozier when the weather gets nasty.
Trade-offs for sure, but it sounds like you made a solid choice overall. If you’re ever thinking about upgrades, some of the newer “cool roof” options are pretty impressive for keeping heat out. And hey, maybe someday we’ll get those living green roofs to catch on—moss and all.
I hear you on the moss—my place is basically a science experiment for how fast it can grow back. Tried zinc strips last year, but honestly, the brush and vinegar routine seems just as effective (and cheaper). The quieter rain is a huge plus though. My old cedar shakes sounded like popcorn in a microwave every time it poured.