Choosing the right roofing material can make all the difference in how your house looks and how long it stands up to Mother Nature’s punishment. But there are lots of different types of materials available, and sometimes it’s hard to know what will work best for you. If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, here’s everything you need to know about choosing between metal and shingles.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. They’re made from asphalt and other chemicals mixed together to create long, flexible foam sheets that have been cut into strips and shaped into shingles. Asphalt Shingles are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and available in a wide range of colors.
What Is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofs are made from sheets of steel, stamped and welded together to form a solid, waterproof material. Metal roofs have stood the test of time, and they can make your home look like it belongs in a post-apocalyptic movie. Whether you choose a thin, low-profile metal roof or an industrial-grade metal roof, you won’t have to worry about maintenance problems with this type of material.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Metal Roofing
Advantages
– High longevity
– Durable
– Maintenance free
– Fire resistant
– Recyclable when it wears out
Disadvantages
– Requires professional installation, which increases the cost of the installation.
– These metal roofs are usually limited by height.
– Heavier
Asphalt Shingles
Advantages
– Cheap to make
– Cheap to get
– Cheap to install
– Easy to clean
– Easy to replace
– Stands up to extreme weather (hurricanes, tornadoes, hail storms)
Disadvantages
– Fire and weather resistant can be compromised by poorer quality roofing material.
– Not fire and water resistant.
Whichever roofing material you choose, make sure you get a long enough warranty in case of any problems.
Which Roofing Material Is Best?
Maintenance and Care
Metal Roofing
The advantages of metal roofs make them a great choice for areas where you want the best protection against hail storms and tornadoes. However, metal roofs are usually more expensive than asphalt shingles because they require more labor to install. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years, but they’re not maintenance free. If you don’t take care of your metal roof, it won’t look as good as it did when it was brand new.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most affordable type of roof on the market because they’re made from affordable materials that can be found in most parts of the country. They’re also the easiest type of roof to install yourself. But, asphalt shingles don’t last as long as metal roofs and they aren’t weather resistant.
Lifespan
Metal Roofing
40 to 70 years- Lifespan of metal roofing depends on the quality of the material and type of metal used. But as with anything, regular maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your metal roof.
Asphalt Shingles
40 to 50 years- Lifespan of asphalt shingles is about half that of metal roofs. However, some cheap brands may not last even that long.
How to Get Them Installed
Metal Roofing
Metal shingle roofing are usually installed by crew members who know their stuff and have done multiple installations. The installation team should be certified by their local building codes.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle are usually installed by general contractors who know the area, and have some experience with the job. A good contractor will be able to give you a reasonable price quote after seeing your house, on your roof. Before you sign any contracts, find out what kind of warranty is being offered.
Resale Value
Metal Roofing
Houses with metal roofing tend to sell higher than houses with asphalt shingles. Some people take a metal roof as an indication of quality interior design, and may pay more for the house as a result.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have the worst resale value of all roofing materials. Over time, asphalt shingles become worn and discolored from sunlight and weather. A house with a worn out roof is considered less attractive and desirable than one with a brand new roof.
There are many different factors to consider when choosing a roof material. If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution that can stand up to the elements while still adding value to your house, metal roofs may be the best choice for you. Ask experts at local businesses like Roofing Contractors Inc to find out more about the benefits of metal over asphalt shingles.
