Synthetic Roofing Shingles Are Revolutionizing Coastal Connecticut Home Protection
For homeowners in New London County, Connecticut, choosing the right roofing material isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about survival. New London County experiences some of the most challenging weather conditions for roofing in the country. Our location puts us directly in the path of coastal storms, nor’easters, and the occasional hurricane that can test even the best-installed roofs. In this demanding coastal environment, synthetic roofing materials, particularly polymer and composite shingles, are emerging as the smart choice for homeowners seeking long-term protection and value.
Understanding Synthetic Roofing Materials
Polymer or composite roofing materials are synthetic products that are manufactured from various plastics and resins to look nearly identical to stone slate, wood shake, wood shingle, or clay tile products. Synthetic roof shingles are roofing materials made of synthetic polymer or recycled materials, like rubber and plastic. These advanced materials offer homeowners the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing while providing superior performance characteristics specifically designed to handle harsh weather conditions.
Polymer composite roofing shingles are crafted from a blend of synthetic plastics, including a significant portion of recycled materials like recycled plastics and rubbers. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, which combine synthetic and natural materials, polymer composite shingles are entirely synthetic, making them a more eco-friendly option. The process involves melting down these recycled materials and reforming them into durable shingles that can last up to 50 years or more.
Why Coastal Connecticut Demands Superior Roofing
New London County’s coastal location creates unique challenges that standard roofing materials struggle to handle. Connecticut’s climate presents unique challenges that homeowners should consider when evaluating warranties. The state’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and coastal weather conditions can put extra stress on roofing systems. Since the 1980s, hurricanes have been intensifying more quickly, bringing heavier rainfall and increased storm surge, which can cause severe flooding and destruction. With more intense storms and higher sea levels, coastal communities in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast are expected to face worsening challenges from increased storm surges and flooding.
Connecticut’s greatest climate change risks are, however, inextricably intertwined with its 217 miles of Long Island Sound shoreline. Nearly 40% of its population lives in 36 coastal communities, all of which now face a dangerous combination of rising water levels and frequent storms. The sea level along the coast of Connecticut has risen 10-12 inches per century, higher than the global average.
The Advantages of Synthetic Shingles for Coastal Homes
Exceptional Durability and Weather Resistance
One of the biggest pros of composite shingles is their durability. Because composite shingles are made of recycled plastic and rubber, you can hit them with a hammer and it bounces back. You also don’t have to worry about cracking them like real slate and cedar shakes when walking on the roof. For example, DaVinci shingles (the leading manufacturer) have a Class 4 impact rating, which is the highest rating a roofing material can have. This means they stand up well to anything that hits your roof, including extreme weather, such as hail.
On the other hand, weather is less of an issue with composites. Because polymer products are inorganic and inert, they are resistant to climate forces. Here is why synthetic shingles are the lowest maintenance roofing material available: Superior for cold climates as they are designed to allow snow and ice to slide off, Stand up to heavy wind, while asphalt shingles may not, Moisture resistant and able to withstand freeze and thaw cycles, Made of lightweight polyurethane material, making them affordable to install and maintain even in frigid temps, Unlike cedar shake wood shingles, synthetic shingles are non-combustible and won’t contribute to a fire.
Impressive Longevity
Because of this durability, composite shingles are one of the longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. As long as the roof is installed correctly, you can expect to get around 40-50 years of life out of a composite roof. Composite products, even those exposed directly to the full forces of the elements, can last more than 50 years. As time progresses and technology improves, we may learn they can last even longer than that.
Environmental Benefits
That brings us to our first pro of composite shingles; they’re eco-friendly. Composite shingles are actually made of recycled materials (rubber and plastic). The majority of composite material comes from recycled plastics that would have ended in the landfill or, even worse, lakes or oceans. This helps decrease the amount of pollution in the ocean or other places. As such, composite shingles make good use of material that would otherwise go to waste.
Authentic Appearance
The look is the biggest reason homeowners are drawn to composite shingles. They are designed to look exactly like a slate or cedar shake roof. Composite slate shingles are modeled from actual slate and even have chisel marks to add a hand-crafted touch to give them a completely authentic look. Composite cedar shake shingles have realistic grain patterns and deep grooves to create a shingle that looks just like shake shingles. Most people can’t even tell the difference between a modern polymer composite roof and real wood. Advanced manufacturing processes take a computerized 3D image of what product they’re copying and then produce exact molds where liquid polymers are cast and set.
Professional Installation Matters
While synthetic roofing materials offer superior performance, proper installation is crucial for realizing their full potential. Quality roof installation in New London County means using materials and techniques designed specifically for our climate. It’s not just about laying shingles—it’s about creating a complete roofing system that handles everything from heavy snow loads to hurricane-force winds. The difference between average and exceptional installation often shows up years later when storms hit and some roofs fail while others stand strong.
For homeowners seeking professional Roof Installation Services New London County, CT, working with experienced contractors who understand both the unique properties of synthetic materials and local climate challenges is essential.
Sullivan Contracting: Your Local Synthetic Roofing Experts
At Sullivan Contracting, we pride ourselves on being the premier roofing contractor in New London County, CT. With years of experience under our belts, we have refined our skills to offer unparalleled roofing services. Our team of certified roofers is dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship and reliable solutions for every roofing need. From residential to commercial projects, our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is evident in every shingle we lay and every roof we transform.
Our local expertise in New London County guarantees personalized solutions catering to your needs. We’re not just roofers; we’re your neighbors committed to building a stronger community, one roof at a time. Sullivan Contracting, a leading Connecticut-based contractor, brings decades of expertise to roofing, siding, window, and gutter services. With a legacy of excellence spanning generations, our commitment is rooted in delivering durable, high-quality solutions. We specialize in robust installations, repairs, and replacements, ensuring every roof stands strong against the elements.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
When considering roofing options for your coastal Connecticut home, synthetic polymer and composite shingles represent a smart investment in long-term protection. However, the overall cost difference between asphalt and polymer may not be that great when longevity, replacement costs, insurance rates, maintenance, and energy savings are considered. Polymer materials are very durable, and all the manufacturers listed above offer a Lifetime Limited Material Warranty. All composite manufacturers offer a Class 4 Hail Warranty.
Connecticut’s challenging weather makes professional expertise especially important because our climate punishes poor workmanship and shortcuts mercilessly. The right repair approach fixes current problems while preventing future issues, giving you confidence your roof will handle whatever weather comes next.
As New London County continues to face increasing weather challenges from climate change, synthetic roofing materials offer homeowners a proven solution that combines durability, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. With proper professional installation and quality materials, these advanced roofing systems provide the protection coastal Connecticut homes need to weather any storm.