Composite (Synthetic) Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better for Your Home?

Are you trying to decide between classic asphalt shingles and newer composite (synthetic) shingles for your Brooklyn roof? Many homeowners want a roof that looks great, lasts long, and fits their budget, but choosing the right option can be confusing.

Both have key pros. Asphalt shingles are trusted and affordable. Composite shingles mimic slate or cedar, lasting much longer. Which is best for your Brooklyn home?

Let’s clear this confusion together!

Quick Comparison Table: Composite (Synthetic) Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles

What are asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing in Brooklyn, NYC. They have three core layers: a fiberglass base mat (a flexible fabric providing strength), waterproofing asphalt (a sticky substance that repels water), and mineral granules on top for UV protection and color. This construction gives a roof that is light, durable, and affordable for most homes. Leading manufacturers and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) describe this same three-part anatomy.

What are composite (synthetic) shingles?

Composite shingles are man-made tiles that use engineered polymers (special plastics made for strength) or recycled plastics to mimic the look of slate, cedar, or tile. Manufacturers make molds from real materials, so the texture and shadow lines look natural from the street. The goal is high curb appeal with modern durability and less weight than stone or clay. Companies such as DaVinci and EcoStar describe them as long-life, low-maintenance choices.

Asphalt shingles vs. composite (synthetic) shingles

Asphalt wins on upfront price and wide availability; it suits many budgets. Composite wins on realism, impact resistance, and warranty length; it suits long-term owners who want a higher-end look. Asphalt lifespans often fall in the 20–30 year range by type and climate. Composite lines often carry 50-year or lifetime material warranties from major brands.

The curb appeal of asphalt shingles compared to composite (synthetic) shingles

Asphalt offers many colors and architectural profiles, so you can match most neighborhoods at a friendly price. It still looks like asphalt up close, even when styled to resemble wood or slate.

Composite shingles use high-fidelity molds from real slate or cedar, so edges, grain, and shadow lines read as authentic. From curb distance, they often pass for the real material and enhance premium homes.

Final result: For curb appeal, composite holds the edge when you want a true slate or shake look.

The lifespan of asphalt shingles vs. composite (synthetic) shingles

Standard asphalt roofs commonly last about 20–30 years, with three-tab on the lower end and architectural on the higher end under good conditions. Weather, ventilation, and installation quality can shorten or extend that range.

Composite roofs often pair a multi-decade service life with longer manufacturer coverage. Examples include DaVinci’s lifetime limited warranty and Brava’s 50-year limited warranty.

Final result: On longevity and durability, composite is usually the better long-term pick when budget allows.

Required Material for asphalt shingles and composite (synthetic) shingles

Let’s cover the essentials before prices. Both roofing systems need a basic kit so the roof works and meets code—a clear list you can show a contractor.

The cost of asphalt shingles vs. composite (synthetic) shingles for Brooklyn, NYC

Let’s use NYC numbers for accuracy. Asphalt is at the low end; composite costs more up front but lasts longer and looks stronger.

Environmental Impact

Asphalt shingles come from petroleum (oil-based) products and create major construction debris. EPA and industry sources estimate about 11–13 million tons of shingle tear-offs each year in the U.S.; recycling exists, but today only a small share gets reused in paving roads or other projects.

Composite shingles often use recycled plastics or rubber, and many can be recycled again at the end of their life; EcoStar, for example, states that their products have up to 80% post-industrial recycled content (reused leftover materials from manufacturing), and Brava promotes both recycled content and take-back (return for recycling) potential.

Final Result: Composite/synthetic is usually the more eco-friendly path for long life and recycled content, while asphalt improves as local recycling access grows.

Installation Process

Here’s a simple summary to follow your crew’s plan.

Asphalt shingles

• Tear-off and deck check: Remove old layers and fix soft sheathing for a clean base.
• Underlayment and ice/water: Roll underlayment; add self-adhered membrane at eaves, valleys, and penetrations.
• Drip edge and valleys: Install metal at eaves/rakes and form valleys to spec.
• Starters and field courses: Set starters at eaves; nail shingles by pattern and exposure.
• Flashings and ventilation: Step/counter-flash walls and chimneys; finish with ridge vent.

Composite (synthetic) shingles

• Tear-off and prep: Confirm deck thickness and slope per brand spec.
• Underlayment and membrane: Install underlayment (a protective sheet between the roof and shingles) and ice barriers (waterproof layers at vulnerable areas) in critical spots.
• Starter, layout, nail pattern: Follow the brand’s nail zones (pre-set areas for nailing), coursing (shingle arrangement), and stagger rules (offsetting each row for strength), all of which help achieve wind ratings.
• Valleys, hips, ridges: Use brand details and matching hip/ridge units sized to pitch.
• Final flashings and vents: Close out per manufacturer drawings and local code.

Which is easier? Asphalt is simpler and faster for most NYC crews because methods are universal and material is lighter on the wallet. Synthetic is straightforward for trained installers but needs brand-specific details to protect warranty and ratings.

Maintenance Requirements

Here’s what upkeep actually involves.

Asphalt shingles

• Annual check after storms: Look for granule loss, lifted tabs, or cracked shingles.
• Keep gutters and valleys clear: Debris invites leaks and ice dams.
• Treat algae/moss as needed: Follow ARMA’s guidance for safe cleaning methods.
  

Composite (synthetic) shingles

• Light visual check yearly: Confirm no loose tiles or open flashings.
• Optional gentle wash for looks: Brands allow mild cleaners and low-pressure rinse when desired.
• Limit foot traffic: Walk only when needed and use proper safety.
  

Who needs more upkeep? Asphalt needs more attention over time due to granule wear and algae. Composite sits closer to “set it and forget it” for most homes in Brooklyn.

Design Options (Composite (Synthetic) Singles vs. Asphalt Shingles)

Here’s a quick look at style options for each roofing type.

Asphalt shingles—design choices you can pick

• 3-tab shingles: Flat, clean lines and the lowest price tier; a classic look across many bungalows and row houses. Widely stocked, so color matching is simple. Good for tight budgets.
  
• Architectural/Dimensional: Thicker profile with shadow lines for a wood-shake vibe. Better wind resistance than 3-tab in many lines. A strong mid-tier choice.
  
• Luxury/Designer: Heavier cuts that hint at slate or hand-split shake. Used on higher-end exteriors where depth matters. Often paired with upgraded warranties.
  
• Cool-color series: Lighter, reflective colors that meet cool-roof criteria in some programs. Useful for heat control on sunny exposures. Check CRRC values on the spec sheet.
  
• Broad color palettes: Large swatches and matched hip/ridge pieces from major brands. Easy to coordinate with siding and trim. Sampling is simple.
  

Composite (synthetic) shingles—design choices you can pick

• Slate look: Crisp edges and broken-cleft textures molded from real stone. Works well on brownstones and landmark-style facades. The profile reads “premium” from the curb.
  
• Cedar shake look: Split-grain detail and varied widths for a warm, rustic feel. You avoid rot and frequent treatments. A strong match for historic streetscapes.
  
• Spanish/Barrel tile look: Classic S-curve lines with far less weight than clay. Good where freeze–thaw hurts fired tile. Adds bold contours to gables and hips.
  
• Multi-color blends: Factory blurring and variegation for depth that mimics hand-laid slate or shake. Helps large roof planes avoid a flat look. Popular on corner lots.
  
• Cool-roof color options (select lines): Some composites carry cool-roof labels for better heat control. Look for the maker’s “Cool Roof” icon on color charts. Check CRRC values when you choose.

Which has more variety?

For sheer number of SKUs and colors at every price point, asphalt wins. For premium looks that copy slate, shake, and tile with high fidelity, composite wins on realism.

Weather Resistance

Brooklyn sits in Climate Zone 4A (mixed-humid), so roofs see summer heat, coastal storms, and freeze–thaw cycles in winter. Your pick should handle wind uplift, impact, and seasonal swings without drama. 

• Asphalt shingles: Architectural shingles often carry ASTM D3161 Class F (tested to constant 110 mph winds for two hours) and ASTM D7158 ratings up to Class H on select products. Impact-rated asphalt shingles can reach UL 2218 Class 4 for hail. Performance still depends on correct installation and sealing.
  
• Composite (synthetic) shingles: Leading lines publish Class A fire, Class 4 impact, and 110 mph wind ratings, with some products tested for Miami-Dade HVHZ and even higher wind performance in specific assemblies. This combo suits gusty nor’easters and year-round swings.

Which one is better for weather resistance?

On balance, composite edges out asphalt in mixed-humid NYC conditions because of broader top-tier ratings across fire, impact, and wind in many product families. Always verify the exact listing for the model you pick.

Benefits of Asphalt Shingles

Here are the main advantages of asphalt for Brooklyn homes.

• Lowest upfront cost: Asphalt gives the most roof for the least cash across common pitches. High production volume and simple logistics keep prices low. That helps when you must replace fast.
  
• Fast, familiar installation: Most NYC crews work with asphalt every week. Methods are consistent across brands, so jobs move quickly. Less installation time can reduce disruption at your place.
  
• Plenty of styles and colors: You can choose 3-tab, architectural, or designer lines to match your block. Big color decks and matched accessories support a clean finish. Samples are easy to source.
  
• Solid code path and ratings: Asphalt lines offer Class A fire options and recognized wind classifications like D3161/D7158. Clear listings make permits smoother. Your contractor can point to the exact sheet.
  
• Readily available repairs: If a branch scuffs a slope, replacements are easier to find and to fit. You can swap small areas without a full tear-off. That keeps long-term costs in check.
  
• Proven track record: Asphalt has served North American homes for over a century. The category keeps evolving with algae-resistant granules and cool-color lines. Homeowners value that predictable baseline.

Benefits of Composite (Synthetic) Shingles

You want a roof that looks upscale and handles New York weather without drama. Composite shingles aim for both: classic slate or cedar style with modern performance.

• Strong weather ratings: Many composite lines publish Class A fire performance under UL 790 and Class 4 impact under UL 2218. Several products also carry high wind listings and HVHZ/Miami-Dade approvals. That mix fits stormy, mixed-humid NYC seasons.
  
• Long warranties and service life: Leading brands back products for decades. You will see lifetime limited (DaVinci) or 50-year limited (Brava) coverage when installed per spec. That support gives you confidence for the long term.
  
• Premium curb appeal: Tiles are molded from real slate or shake, so edges and grain read as authentic from the street. Color blends add depth on large roof planes. Your home gets a high-end look without stone weight.
  
• Lower weight than natural slate or clay: Composite profiles reduce dead load on older frames. Contractors often skip structural upgrades that real slate or clay could need. That saves time and cost at installation.
  
• Eco-forward options: Some composite lines use recycled content and publish Cool Roof colors. Higher reflectance can help cut cooling load in summer. Check each color’s CRRC data before you choose.
  
• Low routine upkeep: Yearly visual checks, clear valleys and gentle cleaning usually suffice. Brands provide simple care instructions for long life. Less ladder time helps you focus on the house, not the roof.

Which Roofing Option Is Right for Your Brooklyn Home?

If the budget runs tight or you plan a short hold, asphalt wins on upfront price. If you want top curb appeal and longer service in a mixed-humid coastal city, composite pulls ahead. Asphalt can meet NYC wind and fire listings with the right line and installation, yet composite often posts broader top-tier ratings. For long-term value in Brooklyn, composite is usually the better fit when your budget allows it.

Consider Asphalt shingles vs. composite (synthetic) shingles—NYC Local Codes

You want a roof that passes plan review and inspection the first time. Here are the NYC code points that matter for both materials.

• Fire classification (UL 790 / ASTM E108): Roof coverings and assemblies must be listed and labeled for fire class by an approved agency. Class A assemblies are defined in Section 1505 and are permitted on all construction types in NYC. Many asphalt and composite systems offer Class A when installed as a listed assembly.
  
• Wind classification for asphalt shingles: NYC adopts ASTM D7158 for asphalt shingle wind resistance. Packaging must show the D7158 class required by Table 1504. 1.1 for your site wind speed. Pick a line that meets or exceeds the table for your block.
  
• Minimum slope and underlayment for asphalt: Asphalt shingles are permitted only on slopes ≥ 2:12. From 2:12 to <4:12, the code calls for double underlayment; above that, one layer per section. Underlayment must comply with ASTM D226/D4869/D6757, and nails must meet ASTM F1667.
  
• Ice barrier at eaves: NYC requires an ice barrier at the eaves for steep-slope roofs prone to ice backup. It must extend at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line; a self-adhered modified bitumen sheet that meets ASTM D1970 is acceptable. This applies to asphalt, slate/slate-type, and similar roof coverings.
  
• Flashing, metal thickness, drainage, and weather protection: Chapter 15 sets base rules for corrosion-resistant metal flashings, drainage and weather protection, all installed per manufacturer instructions and code. Your contractor should follow these details to keep approvals clean.
  
• Composite/synthetic shingles: Composite slate/shake systems must be installed per the product’s listing (evaluation report, Miami-Dade NOA, or equivalent) to achieve the stated fire, wind, and impact ratings. Manufacturers publish installation guides, CAD details, and third-party testing you can attach to filings.
  
• Permits in NYC: Most construction work requires a DOB permit. The City lists “non-structural roof repair” as permit-exempt, but full roof replacements and scopes that change materials or assemblies typically require permits. Always verify scope against DOB guidance before work.
  
• Landmarks (LPC) properties: If your home sits in a Historic District or is an Individual Landmark, LPC reviews roof material changes for visual appropriateness. The LPC Permit Guidebook explains how to apply through Portico and what staff look for during review and coordinates DOB and LPC filings in parallel.

Pro Tip: Choose a listed Class A assembly, match the wind class to NYC tables, meet slope and ice-barrier rules, and file the right permits (plus LPC if applicable). That path keeps your asphalt or composite roof compliant in Brooklyn.

Where to Find the Best Brooklyn Roofing Contractors

Are you looking for an expert roofing contractor in Brooklyn, NYC? SR General Construction has you covered! Our business is located at 8807 Avenue B, Brooklyn, NY 11236, United States, in the Canarsie area.

We proudly serve all areas of Brooklyn with high-quality, durable roofing solutions. From new installations to repairs and maintenance, we provide the best service at affordable prices. Contact us and experience why we’re Brooklyn’s roofing experts!

FAQ

1. What’s the basic difference between asphalt and composite (synthetic) shingles?

Asphalt shingles use a fiberglass mat with asphalt and mineral granules; they’re the most common residential roof in the U.S. Composite shingles are polymer/composite tiles (often with slate/cedar looks) engineered for higher impact, fire, and wind performance than basic asphalt.

2. Which lasts longer—composite or asphalt?

Architectural asphalt typically lasts ~20–30 years. Leading composite/slate-look products target multi-decade lifespans, with limited lifetime or 50-year material warranties.

3. How much more do composites cost than asphalt (installed)?

Nationwide, architectural asphalt commonly runs roughly in the mid-single digits per sq ft installed, while premium composites can land in the mid-teens to ~$20+/sq ft depending on brand and complexity. NYC projects trend higher due to access and labor.

4. Do composites handle hail better?

Many composite tiles carry UL 2218 Class 4 impact ratings, the highest commonly available for steep-slope products. Class 4 indicates strong resistance to hailstone impact compared with standard shingles.

5. What wind ratings do these shingles have?

Asphalt shingles are typically rated to ASTM D3161 Class F and/or D7158 Class H, which correlate to 110–150 mph test criteria. Composite brands often list high wind approvals per their evaluation reports.

6. Are composite shingles Class A fire-rated?

Many composite systems achieve a Class A roof assembly when installed with the specified underlayment/assembly. The NYC Building Code recognizes Class A/B/C per ASTM E108 or UL 790.