High value on low pitch roofs with composite slate

From any angle you look at it, low pitch roofing in the UK has strong business potential for roofers in the next decade.

According to a report from Reliable Business Insights, the UK low pitch and flat roofing market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.2% to 5% between 2026 and 2036. That’s big business for both new builds and renovation projects.

Modern materials, like composite roofing, are one of the roofing products leading the way in both low pitch roofs and the broader UK roofing and materials industry.

Marketplace opportunities

Known for their appealing lightweight nature, composite slate tiles are ideal for low pitch roofs with angles generally between 12° and 20°. These synthetic shingles mimic natural slate in appearance but have the advantage of being easier to install, especially in replacement projects where existing framework can no longer support heavy natural slate, concrete or clay tiles.

Perhaps that’s why, just a year ago, it was estimated that composite shingles held 7.9% of the overall market share of replacement roofing in the UK, according to 360 Research Reports. And that usage appears to be growing as smart roofers encourage their customers with low pitch roofs to use the realistic-looking composite slate tiles for their conservatories, home expansions and other roofing needs.

No compromises

The exceptional aspect of composite roofing for low pitch roofs is the lack of compromises required to achieve a stunning appearance.

• Because composites are so light, they can be laid directly onto most existing roof structures without expensive and extensive modifications.
• Handling of the composite tiles is easier because of their light weight, making it faster and safer for roofers to lift and install. This speeds up project timelines and saves on labour costs.
• Engineered to handle the heaviest of rains and terrific winds, composites boast strong wind uplift resistance, especially on very low roof pitches, which is an exceptional bonus for low pitch roofs.

Insights from an industry leader

Daniel Whelan, general manager and technical advisor at Insullite Ltd. in the UK, works with top quality product brands through his company’s family of online Buildin Stores, including Roofin Online, Plumin Online and Cladin Online. Insullite also designs, manufactures and installs high-quality tiled conservatory roof systems, replacement roofs and prefabricated building solutions. Here’s his input on low pitch roofing and composites.

When working with lower roof angles and low pitch roofs, what’s the difference you’ve found composite roofing systems compared with more traditional roofing?

Composite roofing systems give us far greater flexibility than traditional slate when design low pitch roofs. Through our Roof2Room conservatory roof replacement business, we regularly encounter projects where natural slate simply isn’t suitable because of the roof pitch or structural loading. TapcoSlate® allows us to achieve the premium slate aesthetic while remaining lightweight and compliant with the project’s technical requirements.

How effective has your company found TapcoSlate composite products as a replacement for natural slate for low pitch roofing situations?

We’ve found TapcoSlate to be an excellent alternative to natural slate for low pitch roofing applications where traditional slate isn’t suitable. Across both our ecommerce business and our conservatory roof replacement division, TapcoSlate has consistently provided a reliable solution for projects where customers want the appearance of natural slate but need a product that can perform on lower roof pitches. The ability to install TapcoSlate on pitches as low as 12° (when installed to the manufacturer’s specifications) makes it an ideal choice for these applications.

From a visual standpoint, how appealing do your customers find the composite products compared to natural slate?

Customer feedback has been consistently positive. Visually, TapcoSlate offers an authentic slate appearance with a natural riven finish that closely resembles quarried slate. Many customers are surprised when they discover it is a composite product rather than natural slate, and it provides an attractive finish for both modern and traditional properties.

Final decision on low pitch roof materials

Low pitch roofing requires more than simply choosing a visually appealing material. The roof covering must be appropriate for the angle, provide reliable weather protection and work effectively with the structure beneath it. Gone are the days when clay and concrete tiles were the only choice for low pitched roofs. Their weight and pitch restrictions now make them less suitable for most low pitch designs.

The availability of lightweight composite roofing materials, such as TapcoSlate and DaVinci Select Shake, provide roofers with an attractive and sensible alternative.

These products provide long-term value and natural appearance for the property owner while making the project flow easier, faster, and oftentimes with more profits for the roofer.