Disadvantages of Fiber Cement Roofing and Alternatives to Consider
There are many types of roofing shingles available on the market. So many, in fact, that it can be challenging to know what option to go with for your home. One of the common options homeowners turn to for their homes are fiber cement shakes. But, just because they are a popular option, it does not mean that these cement shakes do not come without their own issues.
Fiber Cement Shakes Common Issues
Here are some problems with fiber cement to keep in mind and a better alternative to consider instead.
1. Not as Durable as Other Options
Although many assume that cement is an incredibly durable material, the truth is that it is actually not all that durable at all. A cement shake roof can become worn within just a few years, even when installed properly and cement cedar shakes may crack in the event of a hail storm.
Moreover, depending on the environment that the fiber cement shake shingles are exposed to, you may find that they will deteriorate more quickly. Wind, rain, and heat all contribute to the weathering and deterioration of cement shakes and cement cedar shakes.
2. Cement Shingles Cost More
Roof cement shakes are also relatively expensive. They cost two to three times more than other roofing materials on the market for an initial install. The cost is also determined by how far the cement shake shingles have to travel for installation. The farther they need to be transported, then the more they will likely cost.
Beyond that, there is also the cost of maintaining cement shake shingles. You will find that you have to spend more to keep them looking good–from cleaning to repainting, and even performing repairs so that the cement shake roof continues to look good and perform well.
3. Fiber Cement Shingles Are Heavier
Regardless of how it is being used, cement is still cement, and that means that a cement shake roof is heavier than other roofing options. It may seem like a small detail, considering cement shingles are popular, but it is crucial to keep in mind.
The weight of the fiber cement shingles will play a significant role in the cost of their transportation to the job site. In addition, it is important to keep the overall weight in mind because the home’s frame needs to be strong enough to support all of that weight. If it is not strong enough, the home may begin having issues supporting not just the roof, but all the other weight that is put onto it.
4. They Require a Lot of Maintenance
As mentioned before, another drawback to fiber cement shingles is the amount of maintenance that they require.
Once they are installed, these kinds of shingles require constant upkeep. This is especially true if you decide to paint them because the paint will need to be touched up every few years. But, beyond that, cement shakes need to be cleaned and repaired on a fairly regular basis. Without this routine maintenance, a cement shake roof can quickly fall into disrepair and become a significant safety problem.
5. Their Appearance Is Not Very Unique
It is also essential to consider the appearance factor.
For the most part, cement shingles all look the same–meaning, they do not have anything unique about their appearance. While they can be painted a wide range of colors, it still does not do much to make them stand out from other fiber cement roofs in the neighborhood.
New fiber cement shakes now also offer cement cedar shakes, which look like the popular wood cedar shakes. But, even with the ability to make cement cedar shakes, there is a lot of upkeep required to maintain that appearance.
Fiber Cement Roof Alternative
For a better alternative to fiber cement shakes, consider CeDUR synthetic cedar shake shingles. CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes are modeled after traditional wood shake shingles but made of a polyurethane material that is very lightweight, durable, and beautiful.
CeDUR’s shakes have a Class 4 Impact Rating, meaning that they are strong enough to withstand strong winds and hard impacts. They also have a Class A Fire Rating, so there is no fear of them catching on fire, like other roofing materials.
Best of all is the fact that unlike fiber cement shakes, CeDUR shakes are virtually maintenance free.
While fiber cement shake shingles are a common roofing option, they are certainly not the only option to consider. Considering the various disadvantages that come with a cement shake roof, it is best to consider affordable and easy to maintain options. CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes are a fantastic alternative that is lightweight and durable.
