Frequently Asked Questions
What is BRAVA roofing made from?
BRAVA tiles are a composite roofing product made from recycled and recyclable materials, molded to look like natural slate, hand-split cedar shake, or Spanish barrel tile. Color runs through the tile instead of sitting only on the surface. The result is a premium roof that looks like traditional materials at a fraction of their weight.
How do its slate, cedar-shake, and Spanish-tile styles compare?
BRAVA Slate comes in standard and multi-width sizes for a classic, tailored look. Cedar Shake comes in several widths and thicknesses for a natural, varied texture. Spanish Barrel Tile has a curved profile suited to Mediterranean and similar architecture. The right choice depends on your home’s style, roof pitch, and neighborhood, and we bring samples so you can see them outdoors.
How does BRAVA compare with natural slate, cedar, and asphalt shingles?
Compared with natural slate and clay, BRAVA is much lighter and less brittle. Compared with real cedar, it doesn’t rot or need treatment. It costs considerably more than asphalt shingles but provides a distinctive architectural look. Natural materials have their own character and history, so the choice comes down to appearance, weight, maintenance, and budget.
Does my roof need structural changes before installing BRAVA?
Often not, because BRAVA is much lighter than slate or clay, but it still needs evaluation. We check the framing, decking, and roof pitch against BRAVA’s requirements and the proposed assembly. If the decking needs replacement or the structure needs reinforcement, we’ll tell you and include it in the proposal.
What do the impact, fire, and wind ratings actually mean?
BRAVA tiles have a UL 2218 Class 4 impact rating, the highest level in that laboratory test, but that doesn’t make them immune to hail damage. Fire ratings such as Class A apply to specific tested assemblies that may require particular underlayment. Wind ratings depend on the fastening method specified. We install to the assembly that supports the ratings you need.
Can you help with color selection and HOA submissions?
Yes. We bring samples and help you choose colors and blends that work with your home. If your neighborhood has an HOA or architectural review, we can provide product information, samples, and specifications for your submission. Approval is up to the HOA, so we recommend getting it before scheduling.
What maintenance and warranty coverage should I expect?
Plan on periodic inspections, keeping gutters and valleys clear, and repairing any damage from fallen limbs. BRAVA offers a limited “lifetime” 50-year warranty from the date of purchase for qualifying installations, transferable to one subsequent owner if properly transferred. That is a coverage period, not a guaranteed service life. Riley’s 10-year workmanship warranty on BRAVA roofs is separate.
What makes BRAVA cost more than an asphalt-shingle roof?
The tile itself costs more, and installation takes more time and skill: more pieces, more cuts, specific underlayment and fastening, and detailed flashing at valleys, walls, and penetrations. Ridge, hip, and trim pieces add to the material list. We give you a written proposal so you can see where the cost goes and compare it with a GAF shingle roof.
























