When it’s time to install a roof for a new home or replace an existing one, it’s important to choose the best roofing material for you. Asphalt shingles and metal are the two most popular choices. Both will protect your home for many years and make your home energy efficient when installed by a reputable roofing contractor. However, there are key differences that you’ll want to consider.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of asphalt shingles and metal roofs.
Metal Roofing
Expansive sheets of metal, most commonly steel, tin, and aluminum, are used for metal roofing. They’re often called standing seam roofs. The metal may also be pressed into a variety of shingles to mimic tiles. They have lots of advantages, including better wind and fire resistance. They are growing in popularity, especially in areas that experience extreme weather.
Pros of Metal Roofing
Longevity is a major reason to choose metal roofing. They’re highly durable and can last as long as 80 years. Unless you choose zinc, which isn’t usually painted, they’re available in a wide range of colors to match your siding. It’s easy to match a home’s style too, and they work well for farm houses, colonial homes, and modern buildings.
When correctly installed, metal roofs are highly durable to high winds, fire, and heavy snow. Your metal roof will be virtually leak-free, need minimal maintenance, and last for decades.
A metal roof is easily installed over existing asphalt shingles, saving you money and time.
Metal roofs are reflective and highly energy efficient and save you money in warm weather. When it is time for the roof to go, the metal can be recycled which makes them eco-friendly.
Cons of Metal Roofing
The biggest drawback of a metal roof is the cost. They may cost several hundred dollars per square foot to install. Finding a qualified roofer can be a challenge, but their gain in popularity is making it easier to find a roofer skilled in metal roof installation.
Metal can dent more easily than other roofs, and it will be more expensive to repair if damaged.
Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles are made of asphalt combined with other materials, including fiberglass and wood. They’re available in a variety of styles, colors, and thickness. They’re the most common roofing materials in the U.S. and can work well on virtually any home style, from traditional to modern.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles
An asphalt shingle roof is easy to install and is the most budget-friendly choice. A properly installed asphalt roof with good quality shingles will protect your home for up to 30 years before it needs replacing.
The variety of colors and shapes of asphalt shingles makes it easy to choose a roof that will complement your home.
Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofs have fewer energy-saving benefits than metal roofs. Since they’re more susceptible to wind and rain damage and can crack or bubble in extreme temperatures, asphalt shingle roofs will require more maintenance.
Asphalt shingles are also prone to damaging and unsightly mold and mildew.
Since asphalt roofs are common, it may be more difficult to achieve a unique for your home.