How to Choose:
Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles: Make the Right Choice for Your Home
Don’t overlook the importance of choosing the right roofing material for your house. Your roof not only regulates the temperature inside your home but also protects it from the elements and enhances its overall appeal. With the ongoing debates about metal roofing vs asphalt shingles, it’s crucial to make an informed decision.
In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of metal roofs and asphalt shingles, helping you choose the best option for your house.
Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Weighing the Benefits
While there are various roofing options available, metal roofs and asphalt shingles remain the most popular choices. Both materials are easily accessible and suitable for roofing purposes. Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision:
Cost
Metal roofs tend to be two to three times more expensive than asphalt shingles. The price variations are mainly due to the material used and shifts in demand. Additionally, installing asphalt shingles is easier and often a DIY project. Hiring labor for asphalt shingles is more affordable compared to specialized labor for metal roofs. As a result, the overall cost of installing metal roofs is significantly higher than asphalt shingles.
Aesthetics
Roofing not only impacts the temperature inside your home but also contributes to its overall aesthetics. Metal roofs offer a wide range of materials, such as tin, aluminum, and steel, along with paintable and rust-resistant alloys. These options allow for customization and can imitate the look of asphalt or wooden textures.
On the other hand, asphalt shingles have limited designs and colors. However, they still have a visual appeal, depending on your personal preference.
Durability
Asphalt shingles are heavier than metal roofs, which helps them stay in place better. However, their lifespan is relatively short, lasting around 15 to 20 years. Laminated asphalt shingles can last a decade longer, but eventually lose their visual appeal.
Metal roofs, on the other hand, have a longer lifespan. They are resistant to corrosion and weather elements, lasting anywhere from 40 to 70 years. However, they are susceptible to dents caused by hail and other severe weather conditions.
Resistance to Environmental Factors
The roof’s surface is exposed to the sun and must withstand UV rays and temperature fluctuations. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, keeping the house cooler in summer. However, this reflective property can be a drawback during winters.
Asphalt shingles absorb UV rays, which can lead to increased HVAC expenses. However, this property is beneficial during extreme winters. The downside is that UV rays can easily damage asphalt, reducing its lifespan.
When it comes to snowy regions, metal roofs are better at sliding off snow, while asphalt shingles accumulate it. The accumulation of snow on asphalt shingles can lead to deterioration over time. Additionally, metal roofs are more resistant to rainwater damage, especially on painted and sealed surfaces.
Make the Right Choice for Your Home
Roofing is a critical aspect of construction or renovation that should not be overlooked. While replacing asphalt shingles with metal roofs may seem cost-effective initially, the long-term costs and upkeep may outweigh the benefits. After reviewing the pros and cons of metal roofing vs asphalt shingles, our best advice is to go with a metal roof for your home.
