Tasman Roofing Products Ramps Up Production of DECRA Stone-Coated Steel Shingle; Manufacturer Answers Growing Demand for Metal Roofing

Business Wire, Feb 26, 2001

Business Editors

CORONA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 26, 2001

Tasman Roofing Products is ramping up its manufacturing facility to support a nationwide introduction of its new DECRA(R) Shingle.

Since its inital launch, the DECRA stone-coated steel roofing shingle has been experiencing a steady demand as a cost-competitive alternative to traditional roofing materials and methods.

The new DECRA Shingle brings the benefits of stone-coated steel roofing into the mainstream roofing market. The DECRA Shingle system is a lightweight, yet ultra-strong roofing product, that offers a rich dimensional appearance at finished costs that are far more competitive than traditional metal roofing systems.

DECRA has gained prominence among builders, architects, and roofing contractors for its durability, versatility, and lasting value to customers. According to Bo Hudson, vice president of sales and marketing for Tasman, "We have seen DECRA move from a high-end specialty roofing product to a preferred product among mainstream residential and commercial customers."

He added that, "The new system's initial cost, speed and ease of installation, as well as curb appeal and technical advantages, have architects and builders taking a second look at the long-term advantages of steel."

Benefits Sell DECRA to a Wider Audience

DECRA Shingles can be installed more quickly than traditional metal roofing systems. Each panel is approximately 4 feet by 2 feet. In many re-roofing applications, DECRA can be installed over existing asphalt shingles, without the need to tear off the old roof. The system does not require the use of battens or special tools.

"In the past, metal roofing required a specialized roofing contractor," said Hudson, "but the DECRA Shingle has greatly simplified the installation process." The roofing panels fit together like large puzzle pieces that lock into place. Just 15 panels will cover 100 square feet.

DECRA stone-coated steel roofs are ideal in areas that are prone to fires. The metal is impervious to flying embers that can travel far from the fire zone and ignite roofs. The roofs are non-combustible (rated Class A material). "In some cases," Hudson said, "a house with a DECRA roof was the only one spared in neighborhoods devastated by fire."

DECRA Roofing Systems have been designed to meet a variety of weather conditions. DECRA products carry a fully transferable 50-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects, including wind speeds up to 120 mph and the forces of penetrating hail. A DECRA roof can also resist damage due to freeze/thaw conditions because of its non-porous exterior.

Since it is metal, it is free from termite damage in warmer climates, and will not experience the damaging effects of dry rot.

DECRA roofs are guaranteed not to crack, break, warp, curl or split.

There are numerous advantages to DECRA, but the most notable is its increased strength and reduced weight. This is particularly important in earthquake zones where less overall roof weight minimizes the sway from shaking buildings that results in the greatest overall destruction.

The DECRA Shingle weighs only 1.25 lbs. per sq. ft., and its unique design adds to the building's ability to resist violent shear stress up to 400%. The roofs are strong and durable enough to walk on after installation, which makes maintenance to other parts of the building's structure accessible.

Manufactured According to ISO 9002 Standards

Tasman Roofing Products has been a pioneer of stone-coated steel roofing technology since 1957, and the DECRA Shingle represents their most recent product evolution. The new DECRA Shingle incorporates more than 40 years of experience as the world leader in the sale, design, and manufacture of stone-coated steel roofing.

DECRA Roofing Systems are manufactured according to methods that have been certified to ISO 9002 standards. Each 26-gauge steel roof panel is pressure formed from an aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel substrate for additional strength and durability. The steel panels are then bonded with an acrylic, stone-chip finish that is manufactured by 3M Corp. for roofing use.

The granules are made to resist fading and UV-ray penetration.

A Long History of Success

Across many different climates and sales in more than 80 countries, DECRA is backed by one of the best warranties on the market. With more than two million intallations worldwide, DECRA Roofing Systems have a long-standing reputation for performance, longevity, versatility, and beauty.

Given the benefits, it's easy to see why installing a new DECRA shingle roof has become the choice for new and existing commercial and residential projects.

For more information about DECRA Roofing Systems, call 877/GO-DECRA or visit www.decra.com.

Note to Editors: For a text version of this release and the high-resolution photo, visit: www.decra.com.