Introduction
CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles provide a cost-effective and durable roofing solution that mimics the appearance of natural slate. Designed for residential use, these shingles combine aesthetic appeal with resilience to harsh weather conditions. The product is particularly suited for Long Island and southern New York, where the climate demands robust roofing materials. Installation is best carried out by certified contractors such as County Roofing Systems, who are trained in CertainTeed's installation standards. This article provides an in-depth overview of the installation process, key product features, warranty protection, and performance specifications based on information from manufacturer documentation and certified contractor practices.
Overview of CertainTeed Highland Slate Shingles
CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles are engineered to replicate the look and feel of traditional slate without the high costs and maintenance requirements. These shingles are constructed using a single-layer fiberglass base, which provides structural integrity and dimensional accuracy. The design includes deep shadow lines and chiseled edges that create the visual depth and texture characteristic of natural slate.
Available in a range of colors—such as Black Granite, Fieldstone, New England Slate, Smoky Quartz, Tudor Brown, and Weathered Wood—these shingles allow homeowners to select a color that complements their home’s architectural style. The shingles are also designed for ease of installation, as they are lighter than natural slate and require fewer labor hours.
The construction process involves laminating two layers for added durability. This dual-layer system enhances the shingle's resistance to impact and wind uplift. The product is also treated with StreakFighter technology, which provides protection against algae growth and black streaking. This feature is particularly valuable in humid coastal areas where algae can become a persistent issue.
Key Product Features and Specifications
The CertainTeed Highland Slate shingle offers a range of features that make it a versatile and reliable roofing option:
- Material Composition: Single-layer fiberglass-based construction for lightweight yet sturdy performance.
- Visual Aesthetics: Mimics the look of natural slate with deep shadow lines and chiseled edges.
- Algae Resistance: StreakFighter technology provides 25-year warranty protection against algae growth.
- Wind Resistance: Standard wind rating of 110 mph, with an optional upgrade to 130 mph.
- Fire Resistance: UL certified with a Class A fire rating, meeting ASTM E 108 standards.
- Durability: Designed to withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and harsh weather conditions.
- Installation Compatibility: Suitable for a wide range of residential roof styles, including Capes, Colonials, ranches, and contemporary designs.
These features make CertainTeed Highland Slate a suitable choice for homeowners seeking a balance between appearance, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
Installation Process and Contractor Certification
Proper installation is crucial to ensuring the performance and longevity of CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles. The product must be installed by a certified CertainTeed contractor to maintain warranty validity. County Roofing Systems is one such certified contractor, holding the prestigious ShingleMaster certification, which places them in the top 1% of all roofers in the United States.
The installation process includes several key steps:
Roof Preparation: The existing roof is inspected and, if necessary, repaired or removed. The roof deck must be structurally sound and free of debris.
Underlayment Installation: A high-quality underlayment is applied to the roof deck to provide a secondary layer of protection against water infiltration.
Shingle Application: The shingles are installed in a staggered pattern to ensure proper overlap and alignment. Each row is secured with the recommended number of nails, following CertainTeed's installation guidelines.
Sealing and Inspection: All seams and fastening points are inspected for proper sealing. The contractor ensures that the roof meets CertainTeed's quality standards and is ready for final inspection.
Certified contractors such as County Roofing Systems bring extensive experience and precision to the installation process. With over 35 years of experience and a commitment to CertainTeed's high standards, they are equipped to deliver a high-quality result that meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.
Warranty Coverage and Protection
One of the most significant benefits of installing CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles is the comprehensive warranty coverage provided by the manufacturer. The warranty is considered one of the best in the industry and is backed by CertainTeed's confidence in the product's quality.
The warranty includes the following key components:
Limited Lifetime Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects for as long as the homeowner owns the property. This warranty is transferable to subsequent owners, making it a valuable asset for real estate investments.
SureStart PLUS Protection: Offers 100% coverage of material and labor costs for up to 50 years. This is one of the longest warranties in the roofing industry and provides long-term peace of mind for homeowners.
50-Year Materials Warranty: Covers defects in materials for 50 years.
25-Year Workmanship Warranty: Covers labor and installation quality for 25 years.
25-Year Algae Resistance Warranty: Covers StreakFighter technology against algae growth for 25 years.
Wind Warranty: Standard 110 mph wind protection, with an option to upgrade to 130 mph.
These warranties are made possible through CertainTeed's SELECT ShingleMaster certification program, which ensures that only the most qualified contractors are authorized to install their products. Homeowners who choose a certified contractor like County Roofing Systems can benefit from these extended warranties and the assurance of expert workmanship.
Compatibility and Application
CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles are suitable for a wide range of residential roof styles and architectural designs. The shingles can be installed on traditional homes such as Capes and Colonials, as well as modern and ranch-style homes. The product's versatility makes it a popular choice for Long Island and southern New York, where a variety of home styles exist.
In addition to standard roof areas, CertainTeed's Flintlastic® SA can be used to coordinate flat roof sections such as carports, canopies, and porches. This self-adhering peel-and-stick membrane provides a cost-effective solution for these areas, while still offering up to 25 years of warranty protection.
The shingles are also compatible with CertainTeed's Integrity Roof System, which enhances the overall performance and durability of the roofing solution. The system is designed to work in harmony with Highland Slate shingles, ensuring a cohesive and effective roofing strategy.
Performance in Harsh Weather Conditions
The performance of CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles in harsh weather conditions is a critical factor for homeowners in regions with unpredictable or severe weather patterns. The product is designed to withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and temperature fluctuations.
Wind Resistance: The shingles are rated for winds up to 110 mph, with an optional upgrade to 130 mph. This makes them suitable for areas prone to high winds or hurricanes.
Water Resistance: The dual-layer construction and proper installation techniques ensure that the shingles provide excellent resistance to water infiltration. The underlayment further enhances this protection.
Fire Resistance: With a Class A fire rating, the shingles offer the highest level of fire resistance, which is essential for homes in fire-prone regions.
Impact Resistance: The laminated construction provides added protection against hail and other forms of impact damage.
These performance characteristics make CertainTeed Highland Slate a reliable choice for homeowners seeking a durable and long-lasting roofing solution.
Installation Considerations and Best Practices
To ensure the best results from a CertainTeed Highland Slate installation, several best practices should be followed. These include:
Selecting a Certified Contractor: Only a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster-certified contractor should perform the installation to maintain warranty validity. Contractors like County Roofing Systems have the expertise and training required to meet CertainTeed's high standards.
Proper Ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup and ensure the longevity of the roof. The contractor should assess the existing ventilation system and make adjustments if necessary.
Roof Deck Preparation: The roof deck must be inspected and prepared to ensure it is structurally sound. Any damaged or rotting boards should be replaced before installation begins.
Underlayment Application: A high-quality underlayment should be installed to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration. The underlayment should be applied according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Shingle Layout and Installation: The shingles should be laid out in a staggered pattern to ensure proper overlap and alignment. The contractor should follow CertainTeed's installation guidelines to ensure consistency and quality.
Sealing and Inspection: All seams and fastening points should be inspected for proper sealing. The completed roof should be visually inspected to ensure it meets CertainTeed's quality standards.
By following these best practices, homeowners can ensure that their CertainTeed Highland Slate roof performs optimally and maintains its aesthetic appeal for years to come.
Customer Experience and Testimonials
Homeowners who have chosen CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles have consistently praised the product for its appearance, durability, and long-term value. The combination of aesthetic appeal and performance makes it a popular choice for Long Island and southern New York homes.
County Roofing Systems, as a certified CertainTeed contractor, has installed numerous Highland Slate roofs and has received positive feedback from their clients. Homeowners appreciate the attention to detail and the personalized service provided by the company's team. The ability to choose from a range of colors and styles allows homeowners to customize their roofs to suit their preferences and architectural needs.
The extended warranties and industry-leading protection provided by CertainTeed are also a key factor in customer satisfaction. Homeowners feel confident that their investment is protected, knowing that their roofs are backed by some of the best warranties in the industry.
Conclusion
CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles offer an excellent combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and long-term performance. The product is designed to replicate the look of natural slate while providing the benefits of modern roofing technology. With features such as algae resistance, wind protection, and a Class A fire rating, these shingles are a reliable choice for homeowners in regions with challenging weather conditions.
Proper installation is essential to ensuring the product's performance and longevity. Homeowners should choose a certified CertainTeed contractor such as County Roofing Systems to ensure that their roof is installed to the highest standards. The extended warranties and industry-leading protection provided by CertainTeed offer additional peace of mind and long-term value.
For homeowners seeking a roofing solution that combines beauty, performance, and durability, CertainTeed Highland Slate shingles are an excellent option. With the support of certified contractors and the backing of CertainTeed's comprehensive warranty program, these shingles provide a long-term investment that enhances both the appearance and protection of a home.