Feeling good about my switch to composite tiles - worth it?

Wasn’t sure about composite tiles at first - felt a little weird going with something that’s not “real” tile or shingle, you know? But after seeing the last hailstorm roll through, I’m pretty convinced. I helped my uncle patch up his old asphalt shingle roof after that same storm, and it was just a mess - shingles cracked, granules everywhere, even a couple spots where water got in. Meanwhile, my neighbor across the street with composite tiles? Barely looked like anything happened. Just some dirt and a few branches to clear off.

I’ve been curious about attic fans too, but I keep hearing mixed things. Some folks swear they help keep the house cooler, others say if your insulation isn’t sorted out, it won’t make much of a difference. I’ve started poking around my own attic to check for gaps - found one spot where the light from the hallway was shining right through. Threw some insulation up there and it seems to have helped with drafts, at least.

One thing I didn’t expect with composite tiles: they’re a bit noisier when it rains hard, but not enough to bother me. Also, installation was quicker than I thought. The crew finished in less than two days, which was wild after hearing horror stories about tile jobs taking a week or more.

Only downside so far is that they were pricier up front than regular shingles. But if I can skip a couple repairs every year (and dealing with insurance claims), it’s probably worth it. Still kinda holding my breath for the next big storm, but feeling a lot better about it than I did before.

Curious if anyone’s had issues with fading or discoloration over time? Mine still look new, but I’ve only had them a year. Wouldn’t mind hearing any long-term stories.

Haven’t seen much fading on the composite roofs I manage, but most are under five years old. One spot near a big tree got a little dingy, but it washed off. Curious if anyone’s had issues with color change after a decade or more? The upfront cost stings, but like you said, insurance claims are a pain. On attic fans - I’ve noticed they don’t do much unless the attic’s sealed up tight. Sometimes folks add them thinking it’ll fix everything, but gaps or thin insulation just let the cool air escape anyway.

- Agree on the color holding up - mine’s 7 years old, still looks sharp.
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“insurance claims are a pain”

Interesting point about the moss - I’ve noticed the same thing on my north-facing side, but it hasn’t been a big deal so far. Did you find composite tiles any noisier in heavy rain? I was a bit worried about that, but maybe it’s just me overthinking. Cost-wise, I did the math and figured even with occasional cleaning, it’s still less hassle than replacing asphalt every decade.

Did you find composite tiles any noisier in heavy rain? I was a bit worried about that, but maybe it’s just me overthinking.

You’re not the only one who’s wondered about that. The first time we had a proper downpour after my neighbor switched to composite, he swore it sounded like “a herd of squirrels with steel boots.” But honestly, I think he was just looking for an excuse to complain about something new. In my experience, composite is maybe a little louder than asphalt, but nothing dramatic - definitely not “metal roof in a hailstorm” territory. Once you’ve got insulation and attic space between you and the roof, you barely notice unless you’re hyper-tuned to every drip and drop.

About the moss - north sides are always going to be a bit of a green magnet. It’s like they’re running their own little science experiment up there. I’ve seen folks get nervous about it, but as long as you keep an eye on things and don’t let it turn into a full-on Chia Pet situation, it’s usually just cosmetic. A gentle scrub every couple of years does the trick for most.

Cost-wise, I’m with you. Did the same math when I was helping my cousin pick materials last year. Asphalt’s cheaper up front but feels like renting your roof instead of owning it… pay now or pay later kind of deal. Composite is pricier at first but less hassle over time - unless you really enjoy climbing ladders with bundles of shingles every decade (I’ll pass).

Only thing I’d say is don’t get too relaxed on the maintenance side; even composites need a quick check now and then. I’ve seen folks treat them like they’re bulletproof and end up with sneaky leaks around skylights or flashing.

If noise is your only concern, I’d say you can probably cross that off your list - unless maybe you’re planning to nap in your attic during thunderstorms. Otherwise, sounds like you made a solid call.

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.

The quieter rain is a huge plus though. My old cedar shakes sounded like popcorn in a microwave every time it poured.

Yeah, the noise difference is wild. First time it rained after we put on composite, I actually slept through it - never happened with the old shakes. Moss is still a pain here on the north side, but at least it’s not eating into the material like before. I’ve tried the vinegar trick too, works alright but I guess nothing really stops it for good in our weather. Curious if you noticed the tiles stay cooler in summer? Ours seem to reflect heat better than the old wood did.

Totally get what you mean about the moss - same struggle here, and nothing seems to last more than a season. As for the heat, I’ve noticed our composite does seem a bit cooler than the old shakes, especially on those brutal July afternoons. It’s not night and day, but definitely helps. I’d call the switch worth it just for the quieter rain honestly.

Interesting you mention the quieter rain - I've had a few clients say the same thing after switching to composite. Out here in the Northwest, that moss is a constant headache, but I have noticed composite seems to resist it a bit better than wood shakes. Have you had any issues with the seams or edges lifting? Sometimes with the cheaper brands, I’ve seen that after a couple of years, especially if the install wasn’t spot-on. Curious if you’ve noticed anything like that yet or if it’s holding up tight.

Have you had any issues with the seams or edges lifting? Sometimes with the cheaper brands, I’ve seen that after a couple of years, especially if the install wasn’t spot-on.

Yeah, I’ve noticed that too - if the install’s not dialed in, those seams can start to curl or lift, especially on the lower-end composites. On my uncle’s place, he went with a bargain brand and after about three winters, there were a few spots where the edges started to pop up. Not a huge deal at first, but water started getting underneath and it turned into a headache.

What I’ve seen helps is making sure the underlayment is solid and the fasteners are spaced right. Some folks try to cut corners and skip nails or use staples, but that just makes things worse down the line. Also, if you’re in a spot that gets a ton of rain like we do, keeping gutters clear is key - water backing up at the eaves can make those edges lift faster.

I do agree about moss being less of an issue. Composite seems way less “grippy” for moss than cedar shakes. Still gotta sweep it off every now and then, but it’s not nearly as stubborn. If you went with a mid-range or better brand and the install was careful, you should be in good shape for a while.

That’s good to hear you’re feeling confident about the switch. I went with a mid-range composite a few years back and honestly, haven’t had any major issues - just the usual maintenance stuff. I was a little nervous about seams too, but as long as the install’s done right, it seems to hold up well. You’re right about moss; it’s way less of a hassle than with cedar, at least in my experience. If you keep an eye on things after storms and clear out the gutters now and then, you should be set for quite a while.

If you keep an eye on things after storms and clear out the gutters now and then, you should be set for quite a while.

That’s been my experience too. I went with composite mainly because I couldn’t stomach the price of cedar anymore, plus the upkeep was just getting old. I will say, though, I had a couple spots where seams looked a bit off after install - turned out to be a quick fix, but worth double-checking before you pay the crew. Moss hasn’t been an issue at all, which is a relief. Just wish I’d switched sooner, honestly.

I had a couple spots where seams looked a bit off after install - turned out to be a quick fix, but worth double-checking before you pay the crew.

Curious - did you notice those seam issues right away, or did they show up after a few weeks? I’ve seen composite installs where expansion or settling made things shift a bit, especially if the crew rushed it. Also, any noise difference compared to cedar when it rains? Some folks mention composites can sound a bit “hollow” but maybe that’s just certain brands.

Interesting point about the seams shifting over time - honestly, I’m a bit concerned about that too. My install is only a month old, so I’m watching for any movement, especially since we’ve had a couple big temperature swings already. On the noise, I haven’t noticed a huge difference from cedar, but maybe my attic insulation helps. Did you do anything special under the tiles to dampen sound, or just standard underlayment?

On the noise, I haven’t noticed a huge difference from cedar, but maybe my attic insulation helps. Did you do anything special under the tiles to dampen sound, or just standard underlayment?

I just went with the standard synthetic underlayment - nothing fancy. My house is a single story and I’ve got blown-in insulation in the attic, so maybe that’s why I don’t hear much difference either. I was worried about rain noise at first, but honestly, it’s been about the same as the old asphalt shingles. Haven’t seen any seam shifting yet, but I’m in a milder climate, so maybe that helps.

I was bracing myself for a thunderous racket the first time it rained after my composite tiles went on, but honestly, it’s been a non-event. I did the usual synthetic underlayment too - nothing special, just what the roofer recommended. My place is a single story with a pretty thick layer of cellulose up top, so maybe that’s soaking up most of the noise.

Funny thing is, my neighbor across the street went with metal and he swears he can’t hear himself think when it pours. We joke about it - he calls his house “the drum kit.” I guess insulation really does make all the difference. Haven’t had any seam issues either, but we don’t get wild temperature swings here. I do wonder if folks in places with big freeze/thaw cycles see more shifting.

If anything, I’d say composite’s been less drama than I expected. Still waiting for that “aha” moment where something goes wrong... but so far, just boring old roof doing its job.