When it comes to roofing materials, there’s no shortage of options. These days, though, two materials are neck and neck when it comes to popularity. Both metal and asphalt shingle roofs have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, making the choice between them a difficult decision for homeowners.
We’re here to simplify the decision making process, by taking a deep dive into the key aspects of metal roofs and asphalt shingles, including comparing their:
- Pros and cons
- Costs
- Longevity
- Durability
- Energy efficiency
When it comes to a metal roof vs. shingles, which one will be right for you? Keep reading to find out!
Metal vs. Shingle: Pros and Cons
Every roofing material has its benefits and downsides. Knowing what is most important to you will help you decide where you are willing to compromise. We’re starting off this blog post by breaking down the pros and cons of an asphalt shingle roof vs. a metal roof.
Metal Roofs
✅ Pros:
- Longevity: Metal roofs are known for their exceptional durability, often lasting 50 years or more. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and hail.
- Low Maintenance: These roofs require minimal maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. They don’t rot, warp, or crack like some other materials.
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, keeping your home cooler during hot summer months. This can result in lower energy bills.
- Environmentally Friendly: Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan, making them an eco-friendly choice.
- Resistant to Fire: Metal roofs are non-combustible, adding an extra layer of safety to your home.
❌ Cons:
- Higher Initial Cost: Metal roofs generally come with a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. However, their longevity can offset this initial investment.
- Noise: Rain or hail can be noisier on a metal roof compared to asphalt shingles. Some homeowners find this noise bothersome.
- Installation Complexity: Installing a metal roof is more complex than asphalt shingles, which can lead to higher installation costs.
Asphalt Shingles
✅ Pros:
- Affordability: Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, making them a budget-friendly option for homeowners with limited funds.
- Variety of Styles and Colors: Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to choose the look that best suits your home’s aesthetic.
- Ease of Installation: Roofers are generally more familiar with installing asphalt shingles, which can lead to quicker and more affordable installations.
- Sound Insulation: Asphalt shingles can provide better sound insulation than metal roofs, reducing the noise from rain or hail.
❌ Cons:
- Shorter Lifespan: Asphalt shingles typically last around 20-30 years, which is significantly shorter than metal roofs.
- Maintenance Required: They require more maintenance over time, including periodic replacement and repairs due to weather damage.
- Less Energy Efficient: Asphalt shingles absorb heat, potentially making your home hotter in the summer and increasing cooling costs.
- Environmental Impact: Asphalt shingles are not as environmentally friendly as metal roofs since they are not easily recyclable and contribute to landfill waste.
💰 Costs
When considering roofing materials, the cost is often a significant factor for homeowners. Here’s a breakdown of the cost comparison between metal roofs and asphalt shingles:
Metal Roofs
- Initial Cost: As mentioned earlier, metal roofs have a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. On average, you can expect to pay 2 to 3 times more for a metal roof installation.
- Long-Term Savings: While the initial investment is higher, metal roofs can save you money over time due to their longevity and energy efficiency. You’ll have fewer repair and replacement costs, and your energy bills may be lower.
Asphalt Shingles
- Initial Cost: Asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for homeowners on a tight budget.
- Long-Term Expenses: However, you’ll likely need to replace asphalt shingles sooner, which can lead to higher long-term costs. Additionally, they may result in higher energy bills due to their heat-absorbing properties.
When choosing between the two, consider your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and your willingness to invest in long-term savings.
👵🏼 Longevity
The lifespan of a roofing material is a crucial factor to consider. Here’s how metal roofs and asphalt shingles compare in terms of longevity:
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Some premium metal roofing materials can even exceed a century.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles typically have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, depending on various factors such as climate, maintenance, and the quality of the shingles.
If you’re planning to stay in your home for the long haul, a metal roof’s superior longevity might make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
💪 Durability
The durability of a roofing material is essential to protect your home from the elements. Let’s compare the durability of metal roofs and asphalt shingles:
Metal Roofs
- Durability: Metal roofs are highly durable and can withstand severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, hail, and strong winds.
- Resistance to Damage: They are resistant to rot, mildew, and pests, ensuring your roof remains intact and functional for many years.
Asphalt Shingles
- Durability: Asphalt shingles are less durable than metal roofs. They can be damaged by hail, strong winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to extend their lifespan and address issues like curling, cracking, or missing shingles.
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, a metal roof may be a more reliable choice for long-term protection.
⚡️Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact and save on utility bills. Let’s compare the energy efficiency of metal roofs and asphalt shingles:
Metal Roofs
- Cool Roofing: Metal roofs can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer.
- Energy Savings: A cooler home means lower air conditioning costs, resulting in potential energy savings over time.
Asphalt Shingles
- Heat Absorption: Asphalt shingles tend to absorb heat, which can lead to a hotter interior during the summer months. This can result in higher cooling costs.
If energy efficiency is a priority for you, especially in hot climates, a metal roof can contribute to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.
Talk With Your Local Contractor
When it is time to take the plunge and schedule a roof replacement, knowing all of your options is key. Whether you choose to go with asphalt shingles or metal, having a qualified roofing contractor can make or break the experience.
At Johnson Restoration, we work hard every day to provide homeowners with sturdy and reliable roofs. Are you ready to transform your old roof? Contact us today to receive a quote!
