The Great Pretenders: All You Need to Know About Composite Shakes and Slates

Creating alternatives to traditional roofing materials has proved a steep and slippery slope for a surprising number of manufacturers, but in recent years, several companies have developed composite shingles that successfully mimic the look of real slate and wood shake roofing.

DaVinci Roofscapes, LLC, offers a comprehensive line of composite shake- and slate-type products. It is a polymer-based product with top impact and fire ratings, plus a strong warranty. Shown here: DaVinci’s Multi-Width Slate in Castle Gray.

Durable composite shingles are available in multiple widths and colors, allowing homeowners to create blends with realistic textures and shade variations. Shown here: DaVinci’s Multi-Width Shake in Aged Cedar.

CertainTeed’s line of slate-like shingles is a dead ringer for the real thing, from its surface texture to its rough-chiseled edges. Shown here: CertainTeed’s Matterhorn Slate in Storm Slate.

CertainTeed’s lightweight Matternhorn shingles arguably improve upon the genuine article. You can select from shake, slate and barrel tile available in a range of colors, including energy efficient “cool roof” shades that are capable of lowering rooftop temperatures. Shown: Certainteed’s Matterhorn Tile in Tuscan Stone.

EcoStar offers a sustainable option for composite roofing. Their tiles are made of up to 80% recycled post-industrial rubber and plastic, and they offer three Energy Star®-rated colors. EcoStar Shown here: EcoStar’s Empire Niagara Slate in Driftwood.

EcoStar shingles and shakes are virtually indistinguishable from real slate and wood, earning them approval for use in historic preservation projects. Shown here: EcoStar’s Majestic Slate in Smoke Gray.