Metal Roofs vs Asphalt Shingles

Do you need a new roof? The reliability and strength of your roof are vital to protect your home, its structural integrity and the safety of your family. That is why the type of roof that you choose is crucial and can make a huge difference to its capabilities, and life span. Two viable options for roof replacements are metal roofing and asphalt shingle roofing. It is great that there are different opinions available on the market, so you can tailor your project to suit your requirements, however, this can leave some people feeling overwhelmed, and unsure of what the best option is.

It is first important that you understand the differences between them, their advantages, and which is going to be the best fit for your home. Roof projects are not cheap and require professional knowledge and expertise. 

If you are not sure which roof is best for you, here is an analysis of metal roofs vs asphalt shingle roofs to help you with your project. 

Metal Roofing 

Metal roofs are made from sheet-like panels and can be used in a variety of different ways, including a roof covering. They use flexible systems that enable them to be clipped or rolled together, joined by standing seams or rolled joints. They are made from aluminum and steel. Aluminum is lightweight, soft and resistant to rust. Steel is much heavier but is the stutter option. It requires an extra layer of protection from rust and corrosion. There are a variety of other metals that can also be used for roofing, such as copper, zinc, lead, stainless steel and alloy roofing products. 

Benefits of metal roofing 

Longevity

Metal is an excellent choice for your roof because of its long life span. Roof projects are not cheap, and the last thing you want to have to do is replace your roof more often than it needs to be. Metal guarantees a long-lasting roof, which has been known to last more than 60 years, depending on the type of metal material that has been used. 

Durability 

Providing the roof has been installed properly, a metal roof can withstand a lot more pressure than a standard roof. A metal roof is great against strong winds, rain, snow, hail, debris such as leaves and sticks, mildew, mold and pest infestations. Metal roofs are also known for their fire resistance, which makes them great against threats of fire. They are typically made with high grade, Class A fire-rated and non-combustible materials. 

Low maintenance 

The general maintenance on a metal roof is generally lower than a standard roof. It will just have the usual clearing to do if there has been bad weather and debris has built up in the gutters or got stuck on the roof. 

Eco-friendly 

Metal is an eco-friendly option for your roof. Materials such as aluminum are made from recycled materials and continue to be highly recyclable even after wear and tear, which means any old panels that you no longer need, can be used in future products. Metal also makes your home more sustainable, as its strong and durable roof means air is less likely to escape, and you can regulate your home temperature better. Some companies now offer cool roofing, which can absorb and retain heat. 

Cost-effective

While installing a metal roof will cost more to begin with, it is a cost-effective solution due to its longevity, durability and low maintenance. While a standard roof is known to last between 10-25 years, a metal roof can last more than 60 years. Being an eco-friendly product, that can save your house a lot of money on energy costs too. 

Asphalt shingle roofs

Asphalt shingle roofs are one of the most common roofs you will see on homes today. They are made from heavy-duty fiberglass and are offered in a variety of layouts. 

Benefits of asphalt shingles 

Easy to install 

Asphalt shingles come prepackaged and ready to install. They do not take much time to install unless you have a unique shaped roof. Many contractors will be familiar with the techniques to efficiently install an asphalt shingle roof. This also means it is much easier and quicker to locate a contractor to replace your roof for you. 

Replacements are also simple as if you suffer any damage, you only need to replace the broken shingles. They can handle a lot of foot traffic, which means contractors can walk across the roof to fix a single problem, without causing any more damage. 

Low cost

Asphalt shingle roofs have a smaller upfront cost, in comparison to metal roofs. This can make it much more affordable to pay for and is often what attracts homeowners to this option. Maintenance costs can also be kept to a minimum, as if you suffer any individual broken tiles that can quickly be replaced, rather than suffering the cost of a new roof replacement, or the replacement of large panels. The materials are cheap to source and can be done as and when required. 

Covered by warranty 

Asphalt shingle roofs tend to have more warranty offers, as they are so commonly used. You can get warranties from both the manufacturer and the contractor, that covers a wide range of issues, such as errors and defects, algae growth, wind resistance and more. Coastal homes are harder to cover with a warranty due to the increased risks, however, asphalt roofs are typically covered by manufacturers in coastal areas. 

Suits a broad range of roofs

If your roof is a unique shape or has different dormers, hips, skylights, vent pipes, valleys, penetrations or other components, then it can be more complicated than a standard roof replacement. Asphalt shingles are great for any roof, as the installation can easily be customized by the contractor as they go along and fit them. 

There are plenty of benefits of having a metal roof, and an asphalt roof. The one you choose will entirely depend on your available budget, the importance of sustainability to you, how severe the weather is in your location, and your long-term goals for the property. 

If you are unsure on which roof is best for your home, seek support from a specialist roofer today.