Westlake Roofing: A Premium Option for Long-Lasting Style
Choosing the right roof is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. Beyond protecting your home from the elements, the roof plays a major role in curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term costs. Among premium roofing manufacturers, Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions™ (formerly Boral and Unified Steel) has built a reputation for delivering stylish, durable, and sustainable roofing systems that meet the demands of modern homeowners.
This guide explores everything you need to know about Westlake roofing, including its product lines, performance, cost, and whether it’s the right choice for your home.
Who is Westlake Roofing?
Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions is a leading manufacturer of premium roofing products in the United States. Known for innovation and quality, the company specializes in stone-coated steel roofing systems designed to replicate traditional materials such as wood shake, clay tile, and asphalt shingles — while delivering superior strength and longevity.
Westlake was formed when Westlake Chemical Corporation acquired Boral Roofing and DaVinci Roofscapes, combining decades of expertise into one powerhouse brand. Today, Westlake products are recognized nationwide for their performance and style.
Westlake Roofing Product Lines
Westlake’s roofing solutions focus on stone-coated steel, which provides the durability of metal with the timeless beauty of traditional roofing.
1. Pine-Crest Shake®
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Mimics the rugged look of wood shakes.
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Multi-blend stone coatings add depth and realism.
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Lightweight and fire-resistant alternative to cedar.
2. Cottage Shingle®
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Resembles traditional asphalt shingles.
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Panels are thicker and more dimensional for added curb appeal.
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Offers longer lifespan than standard shingles.
3. Barrel Vault Tile®
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Replicates the classic Mediterranean or Spanish-style clay tile roof.
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Available in warm terracotta, copper, and sand-colored blends.
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Much lighter than concrete or clay while maintaining authenticity.
4. Pacific Tile®
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A smooth, low-profile alternative to Barrel Vault Tile.
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Popular in coastal and tropical architectural styles.
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Durable against salt air and high winds.
5. Ironwood Shake®
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Premium option designed for homeowners who want bold, rustic shadow lines.
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Perfect for lodge, cabin, and craftsman-style homes.
Performance and Durability
Westlake roofing products are engineered to withstand extreme climates and conditions:
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Lifespan: 40–70 years, depending on installation and maintenance.
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Impact Resistance: Class 4 hail rating, the highest in the industry.
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Wind Resistance: Withstands winds of 120–140 mph depending on the system.
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Fire Resistance: Class A fire-rated assemblies protect against wildfire embers.
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Weight: Approximately 1.5 lbs per sq. ft., far lighter than concrete or clay tile.
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Corrosion Resistance: Stone coatings protect steel from rust and weathering.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Westlake roofing offers environmental and financial benefits:
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Cool Roof Technology: Reflective coatings reduce heat absorption and help lower cooling costs.
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Ventilated Roof System: Batten installation creates an air gap that reduces attic heat transfer.
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Sustainability: Steel panels are recyclable, and long product life reduces waste.
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LEED Credits: May contribute to green building certifications.
Cost of Westlake Roofing
Westlake roofing is a premium investment compared to asphalt shingles but competitive with other high-end roofing materials.
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Materials Only: $6.00 – $9.00 per sq. ft.
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Installed: $12.00 – $18.00 per sq. ft.
Factors influencing cost include:
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Roof size and complexity.
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Chosen product line (shake, tile, or shingle style).
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Regional labor costs.
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Underlayment, battens, and accessories required.
Comparison to Other Roofs:
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Asphalt Shingles: $5–$8 per sq. ft. installed (shorter lifespan).
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Clay/Concrete Tile: $12–$20 per sq. ft. installed (heavier, requires reinforcement).
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Natural Slate: $20–$30 per sq. ft. installed (very heavy, premium look).
Aesthetic Benefits
Westlake roofing’s stone-coated steel panels are designed with realistic textures and blended colors that replicate natural roofing.
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Shake Profiles: Perfect for rustic cabins, farmhouses, or traditional homes.
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Tile Profiles: Ideal for Mediterranean, coastal, or luxury estates.
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Shingle Profiles: Great for suburban homes that want a familiar yet premium look.
Because the stone coating blends multiple hues, the roof maintains vibrancy for decades without fading or staining like asphalt shingles.
Maintenance Requirements
Westlake roofing requires minimal upkeep compared to traditional materials:
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Annual inspections recommended to check flashings and closures.
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Keep gutters and valleys clear of debris.
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Rinse surface with low-pressure water if dirt or pollen accumulates.
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Touch-up coating available for minor scratches.
Unlike wood shakes or asphalt shingles, there’s no need for sealing, chemical treatments, or frequent replacements.
Installation Considerations
Installing Westlake roofing is best left to trained professionals familiar with stone-coated steel systems.
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Underlayment: Premium synthetic underlayment plus ice/water shield where required.
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Battens vs. Direct-to-Deck: Battens allow airflow and improve efficiency, but direct-to-deck is an option in windy regions.
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Flashings and Closures: Manufacturer-supplied components ensure watertight performance.
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Snow Guards: Recommended in snowy climates to prevent roof avalanches.
Warranty: Many Westlake products come with a limited lifetime warranty, transferable to new owners — adding resale value.
Pros and Cons of Westlake Roofing
Pros:
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Premium curb appeal with shake, tile, and shingle options.
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Extremely durable against wind, hail, and fire.
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Lightweight compared to concrete or slate.
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Long-term investment with warranties.
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Energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Cons:
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Higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles.
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Requires specialized installation crews.
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Availability may vary by region.
Is Westlake Roofing Right for You?
Westlake roofing is an excellent choice if:
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You want long-lasting protection and reduced long-term maintenance costs.
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You live in a region with extreme weather (hail, hurricanes, wildfires, or snow).
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You’re upgrading a home for resale value or long-term ownership.
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You want the look of shake, shingle, or tile without the weight or fragility.
If budget is your primary concern or you plan to sell your home within a few years, asphalt shingles may be the better short-term choice.
Final Thoughts
Westlake roofing combines premium style with industry-leading durability, making it one of the top choices for homeowners who want both performance and beauty. From rustic shake designs to Mediterranean barrel tiles, Westlake offers a range of options that can transform your home’s exterior while providing decades of worry-free protection.
Though the upfront cost is higher, the return on investment in reduced maintenance, energy savings, and increased home value makes Westlake a standout option in the roofing market.
