Mar 15 2007
Four out of five homeowners would prefer new durable, long-lasting and low maintenance products for their roofing and decking projects. The findings are from a recent survey conducted for TAMKO Building Products, Inc., a leading building products manufacturer, by national research firm Synovate.
When replacing their roof, more than half of homeowners would choose asphalt roofing materials, however synthetic slate or shake shingles and metal shingles are gaining in popularity, as more than 85 percent of homeowners are looking for products with greater wind, impact and fire resistance. Wind and impact resistance are most important among homeowners in the southern United States, while fire resistance is key throughout the country. Long product life is also crucial, as more than 80 percent of those surveyed want products with warranties up to 50 years.
"Homeowners said they want products that can stand up to Mother Nature, but with a minimum of maintenance work," said Stephen McNally, TAMKO's vice president of sales and marketing. As examples, he said TAMKO offers roofing materials such as Lamarite Slate and Lamarite Shake Composite Shingles, and MetalWorks Steel Shingles that are UL listed for Class-A fire and wind resistance and are offered with a 50-year limited warranty.
"TAMKO composite materials, such as Lamarite, are manufactured from a combination of innovative materials, making them exceptionally durable and low maintenance," McNally said.
For decking upgrades, the majority of homeowners are looking for low maintenance, durable alternatives to wood. Survey participants ranked the following features as most important in decking materials: boards that won't warp; excellent slip resistance; warranty of 25 years or more; splinter resistance; no painting, staining or sanding required; and the look of real wood in a composite material.
McNally said, "For homeowners who want the beauty of a wood deck without the hassles, low maintenance composite decking materials, like TAMKO's EverGrain and Elements composite decking lines, are ideal."
McNally recommends that homeowners research building material options then consult with their roofing or decking contractors to determine the best product for their specific needs.