By Jesse Sanchez. 

One contractor explains how maintenance, climate and long-term value shape smarter roofing decisions. 

Homeowners evaluating specialty roofing options are often drawn to visual appeal and upfront pricing, but those factors alone rarely determine long-term performance. What ultimately shapes the success of a roofing investment is how well it aligns with durability expectations, maintenance demands and the conditions of the local environment. In this episode of the Ask a Roofer™ podcast, Luis Echeverria of Final Touch Construction & Design outlined the key considerations that homeowners frequently overlook when selecting higher-end roofing systems. 

At its core, specialty roofing refers to materials that extend beyond traditional asphalt shingles in both lifespan and design. Luis framed this distinction clearly, noting, “Anything over 35 years, you're looking at a more durable, high-end product.” Materials such as slate and metal often fall into this category, offering enhanced longevity and a distinct aesthetic, but they also introduce additional variables that require careful evaluation. 

Among those variables, maintenance stands out as one of the most underestimated. While a new roof is often viewed as a completed project, its performance depends on ongoing care. “Even though you're installing a roof, we don't think about a roof as maintenance,” Luis said. “But there is a lot of maintenance that goes into a roof to take care of it.” That gap in understanding can shift costs over time, particularly when neglected systems begin to fail earlier than expected. 

Beyond maintenance, regional climate conditions play a decisive role in material performance. Exposure to heat, rain, snow or coastal elements such as salt air can significantly influence how a roof ages and performs. Luis emphasized the importance of evaluating cost not just at installation, but across the life of the roof, taking environmental stressors into account. 

Performance considerations extend inside the home as well. Ventilation and insulation directly affect energy efficiency, with Luis noting potential savings of “anywhere from 20 to 30 % cost savings with electrical.” These improvements can reduce system strain, stabilize indoor temperatures and contribute to long-term cost control. 

Equally important is ensuring that the structure itself can support the selected material. He advised homeowners to confirm that their roof system is capable of handling heavier options such as tile and to verify compliance with local building requirements before moving forward. 

Overall, these factors point to a broader shift in how roofing decisions should be approached. Rather than focusing solely on initial cost or appearance, homeowners benefit from evaluating total lifecycle value. As Luis suggested, that process should include researching materials, comparing multiple bids and reviewing both manufacturer and workmanship warranties to ensure the system performs as expected over time. 

Listen to the entire podcast to learn more about specialty roofing decisions!

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

This dedicated contractor shares the story that led to him and his company winning a DaVinci 2025 Project of the Year Award.

From roof installations to kitchen and bath remodels, Final Touch Construction & Design will tackle the job. Located out of Fontana, California, the company last year was named a DaVinci Masterpiece Contractor 2025 Project of the Year Award Winner for a project in Huntington Harbor where DaVinci Multi-Width Slate tiles were installed to a home along with new solar panels.

Louie Escheverria, superintendent with Final Touch Construction & Design, spearheaded that award-winning project. Homeowner Daniel Levin recounts the commitment Louie had for the project, “There was a point during the rainy season when Louie came out on several nights to personally re-secure the tarps to protect our home. That’s true dedication.”

Learn more below about Louie’s history with the roofing industry and why his company relies on DaVinci products to grow their business.

How did you get started in the roofing business?

I got my start in the roofing business in the summer of 2017 when my father told me I needed to stop being lazy and get to work. I was doing general labor and framing work, and over time I was drawn to roofing because of how technical and detail-oriented it is.

Every roof has its own challenges, and it’s one of the most visible, protective parts of a home. I enjoyed the process of learning each system from the ground up and seeing how much craftsmanship matters. Roofing allows me to combine problem-solving, design and precision in one trade.

What’s the best part of a roofing job for you?

Standing back at the end of a project and seeing how much the new roof transforms the home. You can see the pride in the crew and the excitement from the homeowner when it all comes together. For me personally, I love knowing we created something that’s both beautiful and built to last. It’s that sense of teamwork and craftsmanship that makes it all worth it.

What makes your company recommend DaVinci products over competitive composite roofing products?

DaVinci products have proven themselves in both performance and appearance. They hold themselves to a higher standard like how we do at Final Touch.  They hold up beautifully in harsh conditions and don’t fade, warp or break down the way other synthetic or natural materials sometimes can. The installation process is consistent and reliable, and the finished product always gives homeowners that “wow” factor.

As a company, we’ve come to trust DaVinci because every project we’ve done with their products has turned out strong, elegant and long-lasting — it’s easy to stand behind that kind of quality.

How have DaVinci products helped increase sales for your company?

DaVinci has helped us reach a higher level of clientele — homeowners and designers who want something premium but also dependable. Once customers see and touch the material, it sells itself. The durability, warranty and aesthetics make it an easy recommendation, and it’s helped us build a strong reputation in the higher-end roofing market. We’ve been able to take on more complex and custom projects because of DaVinci.

When selling DaVinci products to a new customer, what are the top three features and benefits that customers react best to?

• Appearance: Homeowners love that DaVinci Slate and Shake look like real natural materials but are consistent in color and thickness, giving the home a polished, high-end finish.
• Durability: The products are impact-resistant, fire-rated and designed to handle extreme weather, which gives customers peace of mind.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike real slate or cedar, DaVinci doesn’t crack, split or require ongoing upkeep — and that’s a huge selling point for long-term value.

What made you think that this particular project would be a winning candidate for the DaVinci Masterpiece Contractor Project of the Year Award?

This project stood out from the start. It was our first time installing DaVinci Slate, and the home itself was something special — a tall, castle-like property right on the water in Huntington Beach. It has complex details, copper gutters and a lot of architectural character that required extra care.

We worked through rainy conditions and challenging heights, and the team went above and beyond to make sure every detail was perfect. I am really proud of how everyone handled it, and the finished roof completely transforms the home. I knew it represented the best of what we do with DaVinci products.

Identify one structure in the United States that you’re really love the chance to re-roof and tell us why.

I’d love the chance to re-roof Hearst Castle in California. It’s an incredible piece of architecture with so much history and design detail. Working on something that iconic, with that level of craftsmanship, would be an honor — it’s the kind of project where you could really combine artistry and technical precision.

If someone gave you $5 million and said you had to give it to a single charity today, which charity would you pick and why?

I’d give it to a veterans’ support organization — something like Wounded Warrior Project®. My family has a lot of respect for the men and women who serve. Helping veterans rebuild their lives after service is something that’s always felt important to me. It’s a cause that makes a real difference for people who’ve given so much.