When it comes to choosing roofing materials for your home, one of the most debated topics in the industry is the comparison of “metal roof vs shingles”. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to consider them carefully before making a decision.
Metal roofs generally have a lower initial construction cost compared to shingles, but they may cost more in the long run depending on the type of metal used. They also require less maintenance and can last longer than shingles. Shingles, on the other hand, remain the most popular choice for homeowners, mainly because they are more affordable than metal roofs. However, they require more maintenance and may need to be replaced sooner than metal roofs.
Ultimately, the choice between metal roof vs shingles will depend on your budget, style preferences, and long-term goals for your home. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully and consult with a professional roofing contractor to make an informed decision.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Shingles are available in sheets, rolls, or stacks. They have a uniform design and composition: a ceramic granular top surface and a smooth asphalt layer over a fiberglass base. Shingles are usually attached to wooden-framed roofing frames and layered upward from the lowest point of a sloped roof.
Shingles are the most cost-effective option for roofing construction and replacement. They are affordable and easy to manufacture. They are also easy to install and don’t require any skill or instruction. Any roofing contractor can use them.
What Is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is available in large flat sheets that are folded longitudinally in several different patterns, including corrugated metals or flat-seam metal roofing. Although flat-seam metal roofing is more costly to install, its interlocking seam design makes it one of the most attractive options.
This design uses seams that interlock with fasteners to hold the roof frame underneath. It gives these roofs strength while requiring little maintenance.
Corrugated steel and aluminum are close in material, but they are a decade or so behind in design. These metals can be found at many lumber stores across the country. Corrugated metals can also be folded longitudinally in a repeating pattern and attached to the roof structure using nails or screws. Rubber washers serve as gaskets at each attachment point.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Metal Roofing Advantages
- Metal roofs have high longevity. They last much longer than other types of construction materials.
- Low maintenance
- For now, chic and trendy
- Energy efficient
Metal Roofing Disadvantages
- Installations at a higher cost
- Installation can be more difficult
- Heavier – could pose a problem in relation to the building’s load-bearing ability
Asphalt Shingles Advantages
- Low cost to make, low cost to obtain, and easy to install
- Easily available, comparably constructed and priced
- Easy to use
- Relatively long-lasting
Asphalt Shingles Disadvantages
- Low snow retention
- Susceptible to damage in extreme weather
- No energy savings
Maintenance and Care
Metal Roof
Metal roofs are often easier to maintain than asphalt roofs. However, it all depends on the slope and angle of the roof as well as whether the roof is being done by an expert or a layperson.
A consultation should be done with a roofing professional. However, it is possible for a metal roof to be maintained without one. Because of the nature of working with metal roofing, it can be more difficult to repair. Depending on the climate and the type and quality of the metal roofing, corrosion, and other damage could occur. A metal roof is usually easier to maintain than an asphalt shingle.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are inexpensive and easy to maintain. However, they require more care than metal roofs. Shingles can become loose, fall apart, and disintegrate if exposed to the elements. Although it is simple enough to slide in and fix down replacements, we recommend that you consult a professional roofing contractor for safety reasons.
Lifespan
Metal Roof
40 to 70 years – The life expectancy of any material depends on its condition, but a metal roof should last for more than 50 years. While most estimates range between 40 to 70 years, newer metal roofs are expected to last longer.
Asphalt Shingles
40 to 50 years – Shingle roofs can deteriorate slightly quicker than metal roofs. Precipitation and wind can cause asphalt shingles to deteriorate faster than metal roofs, particularly if they haven’t had the chance to age in sunlight. Regular maintenance is important to extend the life of your house or project. Replacing shingles and fixing roof holes can make a big difference.
Cost
Metal Roof
Metal roofing is generally more expensive than asphalt shingle options, sometimes by as much as two to three times the cost. According to estimates made in the early spring of 2021, metal roofing costs $8-$16 per square foot. Metal roofing costs will be affected by material cost fluctuations.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are generally half the price of metal roofing. A typical cost for asphalt shingle roof construction is between $2-$6 per square foot. Shingle costs are generally not as affected by material cost fluctuations as metal options.
Installation
Metal Roof
The installation of metal roofing panels can be difficult due to their weight and size. For a job like this, a professional roofing contractor should be consulted. However, DIYers will benefit from hiring an additional set of hands. Metal roofing systems today are interlocking, so it is important to pay attention to details and read through the instructions before you start.
Asphalt Shingles
Install is where asphalt roofing shingles truly outperform metal roofing. In part, this is because of the challenge and cost of installing metal roofing. Shingles are easy to install and any roofing contractor will be able to tell you what to do.
Water, Heat, and Environment
Metal Roof
Metal roofing is generally cooler in warmer climates. This is because the metal will reflect most sunlight and heat down onto the roof. However, this effect can cause homes in colder climates to be more costly to heat.
Metal roof homeowners report less problems with precipitation and accumulated snow than those with shingle roofs. Metal roofs have a similar environmental impact to asphalt shingles.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt-shingled homes are generally warmer, which can lead to higher heating costs for homeowners who live in warm climates.
Shingle roofs are more susceptible to snow accumulation and precipitation than metal roofs. Manufacturing roofing products from metal or asphalt shingle materials has little to no impact on the environment.
Resale Value
Metal Roof
Metal roofs are more popular than other materials and tend to fetch slightly higher prices.
Asphalt Shingles
Although asphalt shingle roofs sell at a slightly lower price than metal-roofed homes, the quality and age of shingle-roofed homes will have a larger impact on their resale value than their material choice.
Bottom Line
Consider investing in a metal roof if you have the means to make both practical and aesthetic upgrades to your home. While asphalt shingles have gained popularity, roofing contractors are readily available to repair any issues with them. Whether you choose metal or asphalt, both materials are long-lasting and durable, providing reliable protection for your home for many years to come.
NOTICE: A low-quality metal roof won’t provide the same performance and durability as a high-quality, shingle roof.
If you’re looking for a reliable and professional roofing contractor in Florida, look no further than All Star Roofing. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in metal and asphalt roofing, and we’re committed to providing high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. Whether you need a new roof installation, roof repair, or roof maintenance, we have the expertise and resources to meet all of your roofing needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help protect your home with a durable and long-lasting roof.
Other Services We Offer
- ROOF INSTALLATION
- RE-ROOFING
- SHINGLE ROOFS
- TILE ROOFING
- FLAT ROOFING
- METAL ROOFING
- EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIR
- HURRICANE HELP