FAQ: Differences between virgin resin and recycled content composite roofing

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

Explore the difference between virign resins and recycled content in roofing materials.

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’re most likely doing a good deal of research. There’s a lot to consider, especially the material you select for your roof. Because of its durability, low maintenance and beauty, you may be looking at composite roofing. This is an excellent choice and has been steadily growing in popularity during the past several decades.

As you research your options, make sure to determine if the composite roofing materials you’re considering are made of virgin or recycled resins. There’s a big difference. To explain these differences, we’re diving into some most-asked questions about virgin resins vs. recycled content in roofing materials.

Q: How many years has DaVinci Roofscapes been in operation, and what are your roofing materials made of

Our company’s products were first installed in 2002. Made of virgin resins, UV and thermals stabilizers, as well as a highly specialized fire retardant, DaVinci tiles are Class A fire and Class 4 impact rated. 

Q: What’s the difference between virgin resins and recycled resins? 

Virgin resins have never been used before. They’re produced from a petrochemical feedstock (such as natural gas or crude oil). They’re the purest form of resin available.  

Recycled resins are materials that have been reclaimed and are being reused. For example, detergent bottles or plastic milk containers. After cleaning, they’re reground and made into pellets. Now they’re ready for their second life. Some companies use these recycled resin pellets to make roofing tiles. 

Q: What happens to resins when they’re recycled? 

Recycled resins lose some of their original strength each time they’re reused. That’s fine when creating some products, like yoga mats, fencing or carpeting. However, a roofing tile made of recycled resin won’t be as durable as a virgin resin tile. That’s something to consider when thinking about the weather conditions in your area plus the UV exposure your roof gets day after day. 

Q: What does DaVinci do with its waste product?

Now here’s where we do recycle! We will re-pelletize our scraps and cuttings to create “starter tiles.” These tiles are unseen on a roof project. So, we’re able to recycle 100% of our materials (almost 13 million pounds in the past 13 years!).

Q: Where can I get more information?

DaVinci has an article on “Recycled Roofing vs. Virgin Resins” that has many details. There’s also PEPA — The Polymeric Exterior Products Association with information. And, you may find the article “Polymer Roofing – Problems and Benefits” of assistance.