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Hard Surfaces
 Hard Surface products include concrete and clay tiles, as well as natural and man-made slate, and stone-coated metal. All are man-made, except for natural slates which are mined, and all are available in an almost endless range of styles and colors.
As a general rule, hard surfaced products provide the longest service period of all roofing products - and are the most expensive.
The two main criteria used to determine the quality of hard surfaced products are hardness and moisture absorption. Hardness tests determine the product's ability to withstand weather conditions such as heat, cold rain, hail, etc.
Moisture absorption tests can determine a product's ability to withstand the freeze-thaw cycles experienced in this part of the country. If the material absorbs moisture, and the moisture freezes and expands, it will cause the material to crack or break.
 A number of testing agencies provide evaluation tests and reports for hard surfaced roofing materials. A satisfactory report from an accredited agency will allow a manufacturer to display
a certification number from the International Building Codes (IBC) on its product labels and literature. The IBC number can help in determining which hard surfaced materials should be considered for installation.
Not all hard surfaced products are viable and several new products have failed within a few years of being introduced in our market. One recent example includes a class action lawsuit proposed for a total of $140 million.
That's why we recommend you rely on a knowledgeable Roofing Contractor with the staff and resources to research new products. It is important to determine if new products have sufficient proven results.
In addition to aesthetics, quality and front-end costs should also be considered during the selection process. A less expensive product might be a good choice if you only plan to
live in your home for a few more years. However, if you expect to be in your home for many years, a more expensive material may be your best choice.
Finally, you should consider that all roofing materials will fade in color over time due to exposure to sun. This gradual process is natural. By working with an experienced and knowledgeable Roofing Consultant, and by evaluating what type of material is best for your home, selecting the most appropriate product will be an easier decision.
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