Metal Roofing vs. Shingles: Which is Best for Your Home?
For the past several decades, shingle roofing was the preferred choice in the residential construction industry, making it the most common type of roof for residential housing. It offers a durable roof at an economical cost. But with advancements in technology, many homeowners are now installing metal roofs.
Shingle Roofs
Most homeowners are familiar with asphalt shingles and their distinct, unpleasant tar odor during installation. Shingles are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and easy to install which is the reason for its lower cost. Each shingle usually contains three layers which include a mat paper surface with fiberglass fibers, asphalt and a final layer of stone granules.
Shingle roofs are also more susceptible to damages from pests and during high wind and rain events. And since asphalt is combustible, it is not environmentally friendly. The layer of stone granules on the surface give shingles it’s Class A fire rating and protects the roof from fire hazards. But it is not uncommon for the granules to erode over time and in inclement weather which could expose the roof to fire hazards.
Also, most shingle roofing carries a 20 to 30-year warranty, but in practice, their actual lifespan is about 20%-30% less, depending on environmental conditions.
Advantages:
Low Initial Cost
Easy to Install
Durability
Disadvantages:
Short lifespan
Higher maintenance costs
Not eco-friendly
Metal Roofs
In the past, many homeowners were discouraged with metal roofs for fear their home would resemble a shed or feel like they are living in a sardine can. But advancements in metal roofing is changing that perception. Metal roofs are available in a variety of aesthetically pleasing architectural shapes, sizes, and colors that make it possible to replicate any roofing style like shingles, tiles, slate, and clay, for example. They are not only eco-friendly but are also more durable — lasting 50 years or more before requiring replacement. Although they have a higher up-front cost, their durability makes it less costly in the long run. An asphalt shingle roof will generally need two replacements during the lifespan of a metal roof.
Metal roofs are also a great choice in coastal locations and the Midwest as they are more resistant against the effects of hail and high wind and rain conditions. Metal is not a combustible material, and most metal roofs have a Class A fire protection rating. Also, metal is a natural insulator making it more energy-efficient than other types of roofs. It keeps the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter which reduces heating and cooling costs. And unlike asphalt shingles where pests can feed on the organic materials, a metal roof is a pest and termite resistant product. It’s this kind of durability that leads to lower maintenance costs. A metal roof requires very little maintenance.
Advantages:
Higher life expectancy
Low maintenance costs
Eco-friendly
Disadvantages:
Higher up-front cost
More time consuming to install
It may be noisier if not installed with additional insulation
Metal or shingle roof; which should you choose? Whether you are installing a new roof or replacing an existing one, our roofing experts will help you choose the best roof for your home and budget. Contact us today for a free on-site estimate today!