There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a roofing material for your home. Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt shingles are one of the most important decisions you will make as a homeowner. Buildingsolutionpk.com brings Tri-State Metal Roofing Supply is here to help you make an informed decision.
In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of metal roofing vs shingles so that you can make the best decision for your home!
Choosing Roof Materials For Your New Construction or Roof Replacement
When it comes time to replace your roof, you have many options; one of the most popular choices is metal roofing and asphalt shingles. Both have pros and cons, so deciding which is right for you can be challenging. There are critical differences between these materials, which eventually lead to a homeowner making the decision that works best for them.
What are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material made from asphalt-coated fiberglass or organic materials and have a ceramic, granular coating on the upper surface. They are one of the most popular roofing materials because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. In addition, asphalt shingles come in various colors and styles.
What are Metal Roofs?
Metal roofs are made from metal sheets or tiles. They are available in various colors and styles, making them a good choice for homeowners. Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they last longer and are more durable. Metal roofing usually comes in a couple of designs:
- Corrugated Metals – These are the most common type of metal roofing. They have a series of ridges and valleys that give the metal sheets strength and durability.
- Standing Seam Metals – otherwise known as “flat seam” metal roofing, these panels are more expensive than corrugated metals, but they offer a more finished look.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles and Metal Roofing
Determining which roofing material to use on your home isn’t just a simple choice of what looks better. For instance, choosing a material depends on costs, maintenance requirements, lifespan, climate, the environment, and more. So now, let’s discuss the pros and cons of shingles and metal roofing.
Asphalt Shingles Pros:
- They are less expensive than metal roofs.
- In addition, they are easy to install.
- Shingles are consistent in construction
- Contractors have an easy time working with shingles
- Relatively durable, and many have an extended warranty period
Asphalt Shingles Cons:
- Not as durable as metal roofs
- Shingles have a shorter lifespan.
- They are not eco-friendly because they come from petroleum products.
- Not fire resistant like metal roofs.
- Low Snow Retention
- Little to no energy savings
Metal Roofing Pros:
- Lasts much longer than asphalt shingles – 50 years or more with proper maintenance
- Eco-friendly because they generally come from 50% or more recycled materials
- Weather resistant – some metal panels are interlocking, which makes them more resistant to wind and severe weather
- Energy efficient – can save you money on your energy bill.
- Low maintenance
Metal Roofing Cons:
- More expensive than asphalt shingles
- More challenges associated with installation
- It may be heavier than shingles – could affect the building’s load capacity
Which Material Can Serve Homeowners Better?
While both of these materials sound good on paper, the best way to determine their feasibility for your new roof is to dive deeper and compare more than the surface material.
Lifespan
Even when you care for them, asphalt shingles will start to deteriorate and only last about 30-40 years. Sunlight, wind, and rain will break down asphalt shingles quickly, especially when they have had a lot of time to bake in the sun’s heat.
On the other hand, metal roofs will last 50 years or longer with little more than an annual maintenance appointment. As materials and manufacturing processes become more efficient, that number is expected to go up rather than down.
Cost
The initial investment for an asphalt roof is much less than that of a metal roof. However, keep in mind that you will likely have to replace an asphalt roof at least once, if not multiple times, over the lifespan of a metal roof.
Often, asphalt shingles will crack and rip from constant exposure to the elements. When that happens, a homeowner must replace the deteriorated shingle or pay a professional to take care of the problem. In addition, multiple patch jobs might need to occur throughout the year to keep the roof from leaking.
While a metal roof’s upfront investment is higher, its long lifespan means you won’t have to replace it as often. You might even be able to avoid a roof replacement altogether by adequately maintaining your metal roof. However, despite the positives, metal roofing is subject to price fluctuations and sometimes costs 50% more than shingles.
Resale Value
When it comes time to sell, a metal roof will almost always be a selling point for your home. Because they last so long and require little to no maintenance, metal roofing is a valuable asset. A new metal roof can increase your home’s resale value by up to 4%. Unfortunately, asphalt shingles are not always practical for potential home buyers. As a result, a home with an asphalt roof might sell for less than a comparable home with a metal roof.
Maintenance
Asphalt shingles have a 30-40 year lifespan and might require patching even sooner. On the other hand, metal roofs typically last the homeowner a lifetime and rarely require repairs, especially when installed by a knowledgeable professional.
When a metal roof needs maintenance, the process is usually more straightforward than fixing an asphalt roof. In most situations, a metal roof can easily last 50 years or more than twice as long as an asphalt shingle roof. However, the slope and angle of the metal roof will affect how long it will last.
Buy High-Quality Metal Roofing Materials From a Responsible Supplier
When you factor in the costs of asphalt shingles vs. metal roofing, it’s clear that metal roofs are a better investment. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also get a roof that lasts much longer, looks better and requires less maintenance.
If you’re ready to install a metal roof on your home or business, Tri-State Metal Roofing Supply is here to help. We are a responsible supplier of high-quality metal roofing materials and are committed to helping our customers get the best possible roofs for their homes and businesses. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how you can get a free quote.
