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There have been numerous attempts in
recent years to replicate the popular wood shake look using alternative
materials, with less than ideal results, primarily because these alternatives
all have inherent shortcomings for use as a roofing material. Concrete is
too heavy, metal is dented by hail, rubber is not fire resistant, etc.
One of the most widely accepted of these efforts was a concrete based
product line by American Cemwood Company that gained wide acceptance in the
80's and 90's as a supposedly long life replacement for wood shakes.
The products, which were identified as Permatek and Cemwood, contained a
mixture of concrete and light weight filler, materials which react
differently when exposed to water. Several attempts at applying a surface sealer
were made, but the rigors of transportation, installation and weather exposure
prevailed. These products did not, and still do not, stand up to stressful conditions. They disintegrate over time with ongoing
exposure to moisture. Failure is accelerated in climates where
freeze/thaw conditions persist.
Permatek & Cemwood products are the subject of a class action lawsuit which has
thus far resulted in millions of dollars in settlements for roof
replacements.
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