Composite’s a lot less hassle in that department, even if it doesn’t keep things quite as cool.
That’s been my experience too. I liked the idea of a green roof until I realized I’d be up there more often than in my actual garden. The cooling was nice, but honestly, chasing down tiny leaks wasn’t worth it for me. Composite tiles might not have the same “wow” factor, but not worrying about roots or drainage has been a relief. Just wish they weren’t so squeaky when it rains…
Funny, I actually had the opposite issue—my composite tiles have been quieter than the old metal roof, especially during storms. Maybe it’s the underlayment? I do miss the extra insulation from my green roof, though. Anyone else notice composite gets pretty hot in direct sun?
I actually found the opposite with my composite tiles—they’re definitely quieter than the old asphalt shingles I had, but not as much as I’d hoped. During heavy rain, it’s still louder than my neighbor’s clay tile roof. I’m guessing a lot of it comes down to what’s underneath, like you said. I went with a basic synthetic underlayment to save on cost, but now I’m wondering if that was a mistake.
About the heat, you’re spot on. Mine get super hot in the summer, and the attic bakes. I ended up adding a radiant barrier last year, which helped a bit, but it’s still not as cool as the living roof I had back in my city days. That thing was like natural AC. Composite is definitely lower maintenance, but sometimes I miss the old quirks. Guess there’s always a trade-off, right?
I totally get what you mean about the noise. I went with composite tiles too, mainly because they were supposed to be a good middle ground for price and durability. But yeah, during a big storm, it’s not exactly quiet in my house either. I cheaped out on the underlayment as well—just the basic synthetic stuff—and now I wonder if that’s where I should’ve spent a bit more. My neighbor did a double layer of felt and swears it made a difference.
For the heat, my attic turns into an oven by July. I tried adding more insulation last summer (just rolled out some extra batts myself), and it helped a bit, but nothing like what you’re describing with your old living roof. Those things are awesome but way out of my budget and probably too much upkeep for me anyway.
Honestly, every roof seems to have its quirks. Composite is easier to deal with day-to-day, but sometimes I do miss the character of my old cedar shakes...even if they leaked all the time.
Composite tiles really are a solid choice for most folks, but yeah, the underlayment can make or break the noise factor. I’ve seen a lot of people surprised by how much sound travels through when they go with the thinner synthetic stuff. Double felt isn’t just an old-school trick—it actually works, especially if you’re in a storm-prone area. As for attic heat, adding insulation helps, but sometimes it’s about ventilation too. Ridge vents or even a solar fan can make a bigger dent than you’d expect. Cedar shakes do have that charm, but man, those leaks keep me busy...