Based on checking the website Tapcoroofingproducts.com, the site presents itself as a legitimate source for roofing materials, specifically synthetic slates and shakes.
It offers a comprehensive overview of its products, technical specifications, and installation guidance.
Overall Review Summary:
- Legitimacy: Appears legitimate.
- Product Clarity: High, detailed product descriptions and specifications provided.
- Contact Information: Readily available, including phone, email, and physical address.
- Documentation: Extensive, with downloadable guides, certifications BBA, UKTA, ETA, and case studies.
- Pricing Transparency: Low, prices are not listed directly on the website, requiring contact with outlets or sales managers.
- Online Purchase Option: Absent, direct purchases are not supported. requires going through merchants or by appointment.
- Customer Support Resources: Strong, with a detailed FAQ section and various guides.
- Ethical Considerations: Products synthetic roofing materials are permissible and align with general ethical principles.
The website, Tapcoroofingproducts.com, offers a robust informational hub for its synthetic roofing products, TapcoSlate Classic and DaVinci Select Shake.
It’s clear they prioritize providing comprehensive technical details and support for installers and specifiers.
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However, a significant drawback for potential individual buyers is the lack of direct pricing and online purchasing capabilities.
This business model relies on distribution through plastics merchants and DIY outlets, meaning a direct price comparison or immediate purchase isn’t feasible from the site itself.
While excellent for those deep in the roofing industry or undertaking large projects, it adds a layer of friction for the casual consumer looking for quick information on cost and availability.
The vast FAQ section, rich with practical advice on installation, maintenance, and compatibility, is a major plus, demonstrating a commitment to supporting their product in the field.
Best Alternatives for Ethical Roofing Products:
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- Key Features: Wide range of roofing products, including asphalt shingles, TPO, and various accessories. Known for durability and aesthetic options. Offers extensive warranties.
- Average Price: Varies widely by product type and quantity, typically mid to high range for quality systems.
- Pros: Industry leader, comprehensive product lines, strong warranties, widely available, professional installation network.
- Cons: Can be expensive, requires professional installation, product range might be overwhelming for DIY.
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- Key Features: Offers residential and commercial roofing solutions, including asphalt shingles, steep slope, and low slope options. Focus on sustainability and performance.
- Average Price: Competitive with GAF, varying based on material and system complexity.
- Pros: Reputable brand, good selection of styles and colors, emphasizes environmental responsibility, strong R&D.
- Cons: Professional installation often required, some specialized products may have limited availability.
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- Key Features: Specializes in asphalt shingles, particularly known for their Duration® Series with SureNail® Technology. Offers insulation and other building materials.
- Average Price: Mid-range to premium for their performance shingles.
- Pros: Innovative shingle technology for enhanced grip, widely recognized brand, good aesthetic options, comprehensive warranty programs.
- Cons: Primarily focused on asphalt shingles, less variety in other roofing types.
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- Key Features: Producer of asphalt shingles, composite decking, and waterproofing products. Offers a good balance of value and performance.
- Average Price: Often more budget-friendly than some premium brands, providing good value.
- Pros: Cost-effective options, established presence in the market, good range of color choices for shingles.
- Cons: May not have the same level of cutting-edge technology as top-tier competitors, regional availability can vary.
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- Key Features: Global manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing products, including various asphalt shingle lines, insulation, and waterproofing.
- Average Price: Varies, with options from economic to high-performance architectural shingles.
- Pros: International reach, broad product portfolio, often a preferred choice for contractors, good value for money.
- Cons: Some lines may be perceived as less premium than top competitors, aesthetic options might be slightly less diverse.
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- Key Features: Known for sustainable roofing solutions, using smog-reducing granules and incorporating recycled materials. Focus on impact resistance and durability.
- Average Price: Mid to high range, reflecting their focus on advanced technology and sustainability.
- Pros: Strong emphasis on environmental benefits, excellent performance in harsh weather, innovative technologies like Nexgen™ polymer modified asphalt.
- Cons: Less widely distributed than some major brands, premium pricing.
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DaVinci Roofscapes Direct Site
- Key Features: Specializes in high-end synthetic slate and shake roofing, offering exceptional durability, fire resistance, and aesthetic versatility. Products are lightweight and low maintenance.
- Average Price: Premium, as these are high-performance, long-lasting synthetic alternatives to natural materials.
- Pros: Extremely durable, low maintenance, excellent fire and impact ratings, variety of authentic looks, long warranty.
- Cons: High initial cost, may require specialized installers, not a budget-friendly option. This is a direct competitor to Tapco Roofing Products, offering a similar, high-quality synthetic option.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Tapcoroofingproducts.com Review & First Look
When you first land on Tapcoroofingproducts.com, it’s clear they are all about synthetic roofing materials.
They prominently feature “TAPCOSLATE CLASSIC” and “DAVINCI SELECT SHAKE,” touting benefits like low maintenance and lightweight design.
It’s not a site built for direct e-commerce, which might throw some people off.
Instead, it serves as a comprehensive information hub.
The design emphasizes product visuals and provides a clear navigation path to “About us,” “Contact,” and a detailed “Useful Resources” section. Virtuse.com Review
For anyone looking for a quick purchase, this isn’t the spot.
However, if you’re doing serious research for a roofing project, especially one that might involve synthetic slates or shakes, this site quickly shows its value as a technical reference.
Initial Impressions and User Interface
The site’s visual presentation is clean and professional, focusing heavily on imagery of their products in various applications.
The slideshow on the homepage effectively highlights different scenarios for their roofing materials, from conservatories to general home adornment.
Navigation is straightforward with clearly labeled menus for contact, privacy, and resources. Latco.eu Review
What immediately stands out is the lack of any “Buy Now” buttons or pricing information.
This signals that their primary audience is likely contractors, architects, or very committed homeowners planning significant projects, rather than impulse buyers.
The user experience is geared towards information gathering and technical understanding, not transactional efficiency.
Business Model and Target Audience
Tapcoroofingproducts.com operates on a business-to-business B2B or indirect-to-consumer model.
Their contact information explicitly states that direct purchases are by “advanced appointment only and at our discretion,” and they direct customers to “plastics merchants and DIY outlets.” This indicates their primary customers are distributors, large contractors, or builders who would purchase in bulk, or individuals who are comfortable sourcing through traditional retail channels. Advisera.com Review
This model isn’t about capturing immediate online sales but rather about providing comprehensive product support and lead generation for their distribution network.
For a homeowner, this means an extra step of finding a local supplier, which some might find inconvenient compared to direct online retailers.
Understanding Tapcoroofingproducts.com’s Offerings
Tapcoroofingproducts.com focuses on two primary synthetic roofing products: TapcoSlate Classic and DaVinci Select Shake.
Both are designed to mimic natural roofing materials while offering distinct advantages in terms of weight, durability, and maintenance.
They are not made from recycled materials but are themselves recyclable at the end of their lifespan, which aligns with modern sustainable building practices. Maverickoverseas.com Review
TapcoSlate Classic: The Synthetic Slate
TapcoSlate Classic is presented as a lightweight alternative to natural slate, ideal for various structures, including conservatories and outdoor living projects.
The site emphasizes its ease of installation with molded-in fixing guides and its ability to withstand wind-driven rain due to an intentional induced curve that flattens when nailed, creating a tight seal.
- Key Features:
- Lightweight: Weighs between 12kg to 14.5kg per square meter, significantly lighter than natural slate.
- Durability: UV stable, through-colored, and comes with a 40-year warranty.
- Ease of Installation: Can be fixed with standard galvanized roofing nails or Phillips Bugle-type screws. Nail guns can also be used.
- Weather Performance: Designed to prevent wind-driven rain penetration due to its unique curved shape.
- Fire Rating: Achieved EXT.S.AC fire rating on felt & batten roofs and EXT.S.AA on fully-boarded structures.
- Aesthetics: Available in various colors, designed to mimic the look of natural slate.
- Installation Specifics: The site provides detailed information on minimum and maximum roof pitches 12-70 degrees, required slate coverage per square meter based on pitch, and guidance on starter courses and ridge/hip cap installation. It explicitly states that mortar should not be used, advocating for dry-fix systems. This level of detail is invaluable for professionals.
DaVinci Select Shake: The Synthetic Cedar Alternative
DaVinci Select Shake aims to replicate the aesthetic appeal of cedar shake roofing without the associated maintenance issues like rotting, splitting, or insect infestations. It’s a newer addition to their UK marketplace.
* Aesthetic Variety: Tiles come in assorted widths 8" and 10" with false keylines to create the appearance of 4", 6", 8", and 10" wide wood shakes, enhancing natural look.
* Durability: UV stable, through-colored, and also boasts a 40-year warranty. It's made from a composite blend of virgin polyethylene, UV/thermal stabilizers, and fire retardant.
* Lightweight: Weighs approximately 14kg per square meter.
* Maintenance: Resists moss and algae growth, easily cleaned with water and a soft brush.
* Fire Rating: Achieved BROOFt4 fire rating on fully-boarded roof structures.
* Installation: Fixed with standard galvanized roofing nails. Nail guns are suitable.
- Installation Specifics: Similar to TapcoSlate, detailed fixing guidelines are provided, including minimum and maximum roof pitches 15-70 degrees and coverage one bundle of 22 tiles covers 1 square meter, including 10% waste. It also warns against using silicone sealant and recommends butyl or bitumen sealants. The discussion on handling valleys for Select Shake, given its rib structure, indicates a thorough understanding of potential installation challenges.
Environmental Considerations and Material Composition
Both products are highlighted as “RECYCLABLE at the end of its long lifespan,” even though they are not made from recycled materials.
TapcoSlate is made from limestone and virgin polypropylene, while Select Shake is a composite blend of virgin polyethylene, UV/thermal stabilizers, and fire retardant. 8trx8.com Review
The argument for using virgin materials is greater control over the mix and manufacturing process, leading to more predictable and consistent results compared to reclaimed, inconsistent raw materials.
This transparency about their material sourcing is commendable and provides useful information for those concerned with product lifecycle.
Tapcoroofingproducts.com Documentation and Support
One of the strongest aspects of Tapcoroofingproducts.com is its extensive documentation and support resources.
This is where the site truly shines as a resource for anyone serious about using their products.
Document Centre: A Treasure Trove of Information
The “Document Centre” is a central repository for all technical and practical guides related to their products. It includes: Rizework.com Review
- Fixing Guides: Detailed PDF documents outlining installation procedures for both TapcoSlate and Select Shake. These guides cover everything from cutting and shaping to specific nailing patterns and ridge/hip cap installations. For instance, the TapcoSlate fixing guide provides specific instructions for cutting slates to create starter tiles 305mm length and cautions against over-exposing ridge caps, advising a 6″ exposure.
- Measuring Guide: Essential for accurate material estimation, helping users calculate how many slates or shakes are needed based on roof pitch and area.
- CE Declaration of Performance and UKCA Declaration of Conformity: These certifications underscore the products’ compliance with European and UK standards, providing a level of assurance regarding quality and safety.
- Care & Maintenance Guide: Provides instructions on how to maintain the longevity and appearance of the roofing materials, including tips to deter moss/algae growth e.g., installing a 5cm wide copper strip below the ridgeline.
- Product Specifications: Detailed technical data sheets for both TapcoSlate and Select Shake, including material composition, fire ratings, weight, and dimensional information.
FAQs: Addressing Common Queries
The FAQ section is exceptionally comprehensive, covering a vast array of questions that a potential customer or installer might have.
From basic inquiries like “Do you provide colour samples?” Yes, free of charge to highly technical questions about ventilation, pitch requirements, and compatibility with other roofing components.
- Installation Details: Questions regarding nail guns, nail types e.g., 32mm Bostitch CR3DGAL Galvanised Roofing Coil Nails for TapcoSlate, sealant types Butyl or Bitumen, not silicone, and suitability for various substrates like battens or OSB/Ply are all addressed.
- Product Performance: Information on fading “No. TapcoSlate is UV stable, through-coloured and has a 40-year Warranty”, moss/algae growth not laminar, so growth won’t stick, and walkability can be walked on with soft-soled footwear.
- Regulatory Compliance: Discussion on fire ratings, ventilation requirements in line with BS 5250, and use in Listed properties or Conservation Areas approval depends on local planning officers. For instance, for listed properties, they advise “make a comprehensive statement and a proper discussion on your preferred building materials.” This guidance shows a practical understanding of regulatory hurdles.
- Accessory Use: Guidance on using lead flashing with patination oil to prevent staining, and why concrete/clay ridge caps are not advisable due to weight and mortar adhesion issues. They specifically recommend their own RidgeMaster/HipMaster products for proper integration.
Architectural Resources and Product Training
Beyond product specifics, the site offers resources tailored for architects and specifiers, including:
- Architectural Resources: Providing detailed information relevant to design and specification.
- Product Training “Ask the Expert”: While not explicitly detailed as a course schedule, it suggests avenues for professional learning and consultation.
- How to Select a Contractor: A helpful guide for end-users, ensuring they choose qualified professionals for installation.
- Roofing Terminology: A glossary to help demystify the technical jargon of the roofing industry.
- Case Studies: Real-world examples like “Jos van Bommel” and “The Wee House Company” demonstrate successful applications of their products, providing tangible proof of concept.
The overall depth of information available clearly aims to empower users with the knowledge needed to confidently specify, purchase, and install their roofing solutions.
The lack of direct sales is compensated by this robust educational framework. Cakeburgersnyc.com Review
Tapcoroofingproducts.com Pros & Cons
Delving into the practical aspects, Tapcoroofingproducts.com, while informative, has its strengths and weaknesses when viewed from a consumer’s perspective.
The Advantages Pros
- Extensive Product Information: The website provides an impressive depth of detail on both TapcoSlate Classic and DaVinci Select Shake. You’ll find specifications, installation guides, and even specific recommendations for tools and accessories. This is crucial for anyone needing to understand the technical aspects of the products. For example, knowing the fire ratings EXT.S.AA for TapcoSlate on fully-boarded roofs or the exact weight per square meter 12-14.5kg for TapcoSlate is gold for planning.
- Comprehensive FAQ Section: Seriously, this FAQ is a beast. It anticipates nearly every question an installer or homeowner might have, from “How is TapcoSlate fixed?” to “Can I use glue to fix Select Shake?” Answer: No, mechanical fixing required. This level of proactive support drastically reduces the need for direct inquiries and speeds up decision-making. It’s like having a seasoned roofer on call.
- High-Quality Product Visuals: The site features clear, appealing images of their products in various settings, helping potential buyers visualize how the roofing will look on their own property. The picture galleries for both TapcoSlate and Select Shake are valuable.
- Clear Contact Information: They provide a phone number, email address, and a physical UK address. This transparency builds trust and indicates a legitimate business presence.
- Certifications and Warranties: The prominent mention of BBA, UKTA, and ETA certifications, alongside a 40-year warranty for both products, signifies a commitment to quality and compliance with industry standards. This level of assurance is a significant benefit.
- Useful Resources Beyond Products: Sections like “How to Select a Contractor,” “Roofing Terminology,” and “Case Studies” offer value beyond just selling products. They contribute to a more informed consumer base.
The Disadvantages Cons
- Lack of Direct Pricing: This is arguably the biggest drawback. Prices for TapcoSlate and Select Shake are not listed anywhere on the website. Instead, the site directs users to “plastics merchants and DIY outlets” or to contact their area sales manager. This lack of transparency means you can’t get an immediate estimate of cost, making it difficult to budget or compare against other options without extra legwork.
- No Online Purchasing Option: You cannot buy products directly from Tapcoroofingproducts.com. The process requires contacting a sales manager or finding a local dealer, which adds a layer of inconvenience, especially for individual homeowners accustomed to e-commerce. Even picking up orders from their warehouse requires an “advanced appointment only and at our discretion.”
- Focus on B2B, Less on Direct Consumer: While the information is thorough, the overall presentation and lack of direct sales channels suggest a primary focus on business clients contractors, distributors rather than individual homeowners. This might feel less user-friendly for a typical DIY enthusiast.
- Reliance on External Distribution: Since you can’t buy directly, your experience and potentially pricing will heavily depend on the third-party merchant you purchase from. This introduces variables outside of Tapco’s direct control.
- Regional Availability Concerns Implied: While they state availability at most plastics merchants and DIY outlets, the explicit mention of needing to contact them for the “best place to purchase in your area” implies that not every outlet may stock their full range, or that availability might be localized.
In essence, Tapcoroofingproducts.com is a powerhouse of information for those in the know or those willing to put in the research.
But for the average consumer expecting the ease of modern online shopping, the lack of pricing and direct purchase options is a significant hurdle.
Tapcoroofingproducts.com Alternatives
Given the specific focus on synthetic roofing materials, finding direct equivalents that match the exact same product specifications and distribution model can be tricky.
However, there are several reputable manufacturers offering high-quality synthetic roofing or traditional roofing materials that serve similar functional needs. Aliveate.com Review
When looking for alternatives, consider factors like material type, warranty, installation requirements, and aesthetic options.
Exploring Synthetic Roofing Alternatives
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- Focus: High-end synthetic slate and shake roofing.
- Key Advantage: DaVinci Roofscapes is essentially the premium brand under the same Westlake Royal Building Products umbrella as Tapco Roofing Products. This means they share some underlying technology and quality standards. DaVinci is well-known for its wide array of colors and custom blends, offering a more bespoke aesthetic. Their products boast impressive impact and fire resistance ratings, making them suitable for severe weather conditions.
- Pros: Extensive color and style options, superior durability, excellent warranties, authentic appearance.
- Cons: Higher price point, typically requires specialized installation.
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- Focus: Composite roofing made from 95% recycled materials.
- Key Advantage: Enviroshake stands out for its strong environmental credentials, being made predominantly from recycled post-industrial plastics, rubber, and cellulosic fiber. This makes it a great choice for eco-conscious builders. Their products mimic natural cedar, slate, and shake with high durability and a strong warranty.
- Pros: Environmentally friendly high recycled content, very durable, realistic aesthetics, good warranty.
- Cons: Limited distribution, potentially higher cost due to specialized manufacturing.
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- Focus: Polyurethane composite roofing that replicates natural cedar shakes.
- Key Advantage: CeDUR uses a proprietary polyurethane formulation that results in extremely realistic, thick, and lightweight composite shakes. They are known for their high fire resistance Class A and impact resistance Class 4. Their multi-tone colors also give a very natural weathered appearance.
- Pros: Highly authentic look, excellent fire and impact ratings, lightweight, durable.
- Cons: Premium pricing, may require specific installation techniques.
Traditional Roofing Alternatives Widely Available & Ethical
For those open to traditional materials, or seeking broader availability and potentially different price points, these are strong contenders: Rwajewels.com Review
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Asphalt Shingles GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning
- Focus: The most common roofing material in the US, offering a balance of cost, durability, and aesthetics.
- Key Advantage: Widely available from numerous manufacturers, relatively easy to install though professional installation is recommended, and comes in a vast array of colors and styles, including architectural shingles that mimic slate or wood.
- Pros: Cost-effective, large color and style selection, relatively quick installation, good warranties.
- Cons: Shorter lifespan than synthetic options typically 20-30 years, can be susceptible to high winds or hail over time.
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Metal Roofing Standing Seam, Corrugated
- Focus: Durable, long-lasting roofing solution.
- Key Advantage: Metal roofs offer exceptional longevity 50+ years, excellent fire resistance, and are highly resistant to extreme weather. They are also energy-efficient, reflecting solar radiant heat. Available in various profiles and colors.
- Pros: Extremely durable and long-lasting, fire-resistant, energy-efficient, low maintenance, recyclable.
- Cons: Higher initial cost than asphalt shingles, can be noisy during rain/hail, requires specialized installation.
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- Focus: Traditional, durable roofing with a distinct aesthetic.
- Key Advantage: These materials provide excellent durability, fire resistance, and a unique architectural look, particularly popular in specific regions. They have a very long lifespan.
- Pros: Very long lifespan 50-100+ years, excellent fire resistance, unique aesthetic appeal, good insulation properties.
- Cons: Very heavy may require structural reinforcement, high initial cost, brittle can break if walked on improperly, requires specialized installation.
When considering any of these alternatives, it’s always wise to request samples, check local supplier availability, and get multiple quotes for both materials and installation. Integraglobal.com Review
Ensure the chosen material aligns with local building codes and aesthetic preferences, while also verifying the manufacturer’s warranty and reputation for quality and support.
How to Get Pricing from Tapcoroofingproducts.com
One of the most immediate challenges for an interested consumer on Tapcoroofingproducts.com is the complete absence of direct pricing.
Unlike many modern e-commerce sites, you won’t find a “price list” or “add to cart” functionality.
This business model directs inquiries through specific channels, requiring a bit more effort to get the numbers you need.
Why No Direct Pricing?
The primary reason Tapcoroofingproducts.com doesn’t list prices directly is likely due to their sales model. Teamsoccerjerseys.com Review
They operate through a network of distributors, “plastics merchants and DIY outlets,” rather than selling directly to the end consumer for every order. Prices can vary based on:
- Distributor Markup: Each merchant or outlet will set their own retail price.
- Volume Discounts: Larger orders from contractors or builders will likely receive different pricing than smaller, individual purchases.
- Location/Shipping Costs: As the products are physical goods, freight and delivery charges can significantly impact the final cost, and these vary widely by region.
- Project Specifics: Some projects might require specific accessories or quantities that influence the overall quote.
This indirect sales approach allows them to manage logistics more efficiently through their partners, but it puts the onus on the customer to seek out pricing.
Steps to Obtain Pricing Information
If you’re serious about getting a quote for TapcoRoofingProducts, here’s the typical process you’ll need to follow:
- Utilize the “Contact Us” Form: The website features a Contact Us page where you can submit an inquiry. Be as detailed as possible in your message:
- Specify which product you’re interested in TapcoSlate Classic or DaVinci Select Shake.
- Provide your estimated project size e.g., “approx. 100 square meters of roofing”.
- Include your location city and postcode to help them direct you to the nearest relevant supplier.
- Mention if you are a homeowner, contractor, or architect, as this might influence who they connect you with.
- Call Their Sales Line: The phone number, +44 01482 880478, is prominently displayed. Calling directly can often yield quicker results than email, especially if you have specific questions. Be prepared to provide the same project details as above.
- Request a “Free Sample”: While primarily for physical evaluation, the Request a Free Sample form might open a dialogue with a sales representative who can then direct you to pricing information. They state they can also supply “larger display boards which shows more accurately how our slates will look in situ” for planning discussions, which could be a good point of contact for pricing.
- Inquire at Local Plastics Merchants or DIY Outlets: The website explicitly states, “TapcoSlate is available at most plastics merchants and DIY outlets.” This is your most direct route to getting retail pricing. You’ll need to locate these stores in your area and inquire about stocking Tapco products. It’s advisable to call ahead to save a trip.
- Speak to Your Local Area Sales Manager if applicable: For larger projects or trade accounts, the website suggests contacting your “local area sales manager.” They can “advise you of any outlet offering a better price in your area” or potentially arrange direct purchase on an “advanced appointment only” basis, depending on the scale.
It’s a multi-step process that deviates from instant gratification, but it’s the established path for procuring their specific roofing materials.
Plan to spend some time on this, especially if you’re not already working with a contractor who has established accounts with their distributors. Under-pressure-cleaning.com Review
Tapcoroofingproducts.com vs. Competitors
When evaluating Tapcoroofingproducts.com against its competitors, it’s essential to consider the niche it occupies: high-quality synthetic roofing materials.
While traditional asphalt shingles dominate the market, Tapco targets a segment looking for the aesthetic appeal and longevity of natural slate or cedar, without the weight, fragility, or maintenance issues.
Tapco Roofing Products TapcoSlate & DaVinci Select Shake
- Strengths:
- Authentic Appearance: Both TapcoSlate and DaVinci Select Shake are designed to mimic natural materials very convincingly, particularly with their varied widths and textures. The “Coachman Mix” for TapcoSlate and the assorted widths for Select Shake contribute to this.
- Lightweight: Significantly lighter than natural slate or traditional concrete tiles 12-14.5 kg/sqm, reducing structural requirements for the roof deck. This is a major advantage for renovations or lighter structures like conservatories.
- Durability & Warranty: A 40-year warranty is robust, indicating high confidence in product longevity. They are UV stable, through-colored, and resistant to moss/algae.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike natural wood shakes that require regular treatment or natural slates that can be brittle, synthetic options require minimal upkeep.
- Comprehensive Technical Support: The website’s document center, FAQs, and fixing guides are top-tier, providing extensive information for installers.
- Weaknesses:
- No Direct Pricing/Online Sales: The biggest hurdle for immediate consumer access and comparison. This indirect sales model adds friction.
- Not Made from Recycled Content: While recyclable, the use of virgin polypropylene and polyethylene might be a con for environmentally conscious buyers specifically looking for products with high recycled content.
- UK Focus/Distribution: While part of Westlake Royal Building Products a global entity, the website’s contact details and some specific certifications UKCA indicate a strong UK/European focus, which might affect availability or support outside these regions.
Key Competitors Comparison
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DaVinci Roofscapes Direct Competitor & Sister Company
- Similarities: Also synthetic slate/shake, 40-50 year warranties, high durability, aesthetic focus.
- Differences: DaVinci is generally considered the premium brand, often with a wider range of colors and custom blends. It’s more globally recognized, especially in North America. Pricing is often higher, reflecting its position in the luxury segment. Functionally, they are very similar, being under the same corporate umbrella Westlake Royal Building Products.
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Natural Slate Roofing
- Similarities: Unmatched aesthetic appeal, extremely long lifespan 100+ years.
- Differences: Weight: Natural slate is very heavy often 40-60 kg/sqm or more, requiring significant structural reinforcement. Cost: High material and installation costs. Fragility: Prone to breaking during installation or impact. Maintenance: Can require more specialized repairs. TapcoSlate directly addresses these natural slate disadvantages.
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Natural Cedar Shake Roofing Ikigaikimonos.com Review
- Similarities: Distinctive aesthetic, excellent insulation.
- Differences: Maintenance: Requires regular treatment to prevent rot, mold, and insect infestation. Lifespan: Shorter 20-30 years than synthetic alternatives unless meticulously maintained. Fire Risk: Higher fire risk unless treated. Cost: Can be expensive for high-grade shakes. DaVinci Select Shake offers a compelling argument against these issues.
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Asphalt Shingles e.g., GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning
- Similarities: Widely available, relatively easy to install.
- Differences: Cost: Significantly cheaper initially. Lifespan: Shorter 20-30 years typically. Aesthetic: Less premium look than synthetic slate/shake. Durability: More susceptible to high winds, hail, and extreme temperatures compared to synthetics. Weight: Lighter than natural slate but heavier than synthetic in some cases. This is where Tapco positions itself as a higher-end, longer-lasting, and more aesthetically pleasing alternative.
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Other Synthetic/Composite Roofing e.g., Enviroshake, CeDUR
- Similarities: Focus on durability, low maintenance, mimicking natural materials.
- Differences: Some competitors, like Enviroshake, emphasize higher recycled content, which might be a differentiating factor for some buyers. Others, like CeDUR, might have different material compositions leading to slightly different performance characteristics e.g., specific fire ratings, impact resistance. Pricing and distribution models will also vary.
In summary, Tapcoroofingproducts.com holds its own as a provider of high-performance synthetic roofing solutions.
Its robust technical information is a strong suit, appealing to professional specifiers.
However, its indirect sales model means it doesn’t offer the immediate pricing transparency or online purchasing convenience that many mainstream consumers now expect from direct-to-consumer businesses. Icetonline.com Review
It competes effectively on product quality, longevity, and aesthetics against natural materials, while positioning itself as a durable, lower-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt shingles.
FAQ
What is Tapcoroofingproducts.com?
Tapcoroofingproducts.com is the official website for Tapco Roofing Products, a manufacturer specializing in synthetic roofing materials, specifically TapcoSlate Classic a lightweight synthetic slate and DaVinci Select Shake a synthetic cedar shake alternative.
Do Tapco Roofing Products offer direct online purchasing?
No, Tapco Roofing Products does not offer direct online purchasing from their website.
They direct customers to plastics merchants and DIY outlets, or to contact their area sales managers for procurement.
Are prices listed on Tapcoroofingproducts.com?
No, prices for Tapco Roofing Products are not listed on their website. 7cloud.ltd Review
You need to contact a local merchant, DIY outlet, or their sales team to obtain pricing information.
What are the main products offered by Tapcoroofingproducts.com?
The main products offered are TapcoSlate Classic, a synthetic slate, and DaVinci Select Shake, a synthetic cedar shake alternative.
How long is the warranty for Tapco Roofing Products?
Both TapcoSlate Classic and DaVinci Select Shake come with a 40-year warranty, indicating significant confidence in their longevity and durability.
Are Tapco Roofing Products made from recycled materials?
No, Tapco Roofing Products are not made from recycled materials.
TapcoSlate is made from limestone and virgin polypropylene, while Select Shake is made from a composite blend of virgin polyethylene and other stabilizers.
However, both products are recyclable at the end of their long lifespan.
Can I install TapcoSlate or Select Shake myself DIY?
While the website provides extensive fixing guides and detailed FAQs, which are helpful for DIY enthusiasts, roofing is a specialized skill.
Professional installation is generally recommended to ensure proper performance and to maintain warranty validity.
What is the minimum roof pitch for TapcoSlate Classic?
The minimum pitch for TapcoSlate Classic is 12 degrees.
What is the minimum roof pitch for DaVinci Select Shake?
The minimum pitch for DaVinci Select Shake is 15 degrees.
Do I need to ventilate a roof installed with Tapco Roofing Products?
Yes, roof ventilation is very important to extract water vapor and prevent rot, significantly adding to the longevity of your roof.
They recommend installing ventilation in line with BS 5250 at both low-level eaves/soffit and high-level ridge/abutment.
Can solar panels be fitted on Tapco Roofing Products?
Yes, solar panels can be fitted.
The manufacturer stipulates that solar panels must be fitted to the panel manufacturer’s specifications and secured to the wooden roof structure, not just the synthetic slates or tiles themselves.
How are TapcoSlate and Select Shake fixed to the roof?
They are mechanically fixed using standard galvanized roofing nails or screws directly through molded-in fixing guides for TapcoSlate or through the tiles for Select Shake. Mortar or silicone sealant should not be used.
Do Tapco Roofing Products fade or change color over time?
No, both TapcoSlate and Select Shake are UV stable and through-colored, meaning their color goes all the way through the material.
They will weather evenly across the roofscape, but they will not fade or go white.
Will moss or algae grow on Tapco Roofing Products?
Algae grows on laminar materials, and since TapcoSlate and Select Shake are not laminar, any growth will not stick and can easily be removed.
Installing a 5cm wide copper strip below the ridgeline can permanently deter growth.
Are there any certifications for Tapco Roofing Products?
Yes, TapcoSlate is BBA, UKTA UKCA marking, and ETA CE marking certified. Select Shake is BBA certified.
Copies of these certifications are available for download from their Document Centre.
Can Tapco Roofing Products be used in Conservation Areas or on Listed properties?
TapcoSlate has been approved for use on Grade 2 Listed properties and Conservation Areas in the UK, but approval is not guaranteed for all applications.
It requires discussion and approval from your local planning officer.
Select Shake is newer to the UK market and currently has no specific approvals for these areas.
What type of underlay is recommended for Tapco Roofing Products?
They recommend an impermeable non-breathable roofing membrane such as Protect Wunderlay.
This allows the slates/tiles to be fixed directly to board or batten, with a mechanical ventilation channel installed underneath the membrane.
Can I walk on Tapco Roofing Products after installation?
Yes, both TapcoSlate and Select Shake can be walked on with soft-soled footwear during and after installation without damaging them.
However, health and safety precautions, especially during adverse weather, should be observed as they can be slippery when wet.
How are Tapco Roofing Products packaged and delivered?
Slates/tiles are strap-banded and sold in bundles e.g., 25 slates per bundle for TapcoSlate, 22 tiles per bundle for Select Shake. There is a shipping charge dependent on the delivery location.
How can I get samples of Tapco Roofing Products?
You can request free color samples using the “Request a Free Sample” form on their website.
They also offer larger display boards for detailed planning discussions.
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