There are many different materials used for roofing in today’s market, meaning each one comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Both metal roofing and asphalt shingles are incredibly versatile and provide property owners with a final result that is aesthetically appealing, thus adding to overall curb appeal. Acting as two of the most popular roofing materials for property owners today, many of the advantages and disadvantages of each are explored below.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is an excellent option for property owners as it comes in a variety of formats and designs, such as shingles, standing seam, wooden shake, and tile. This material provides versatility in the selection process and adds to the curb appeal of your home. Many homeowners stay away from metal roofing because it’s more of a complex option. There is a wide variety of options that can be overwhelming, specific techniques and experienced installers are required, and more materials are needed when compared to asphalt shingles. There are many different types of metal roofing that homeowners can choose from should you select this material:
- Tin Roof
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc
- Seam Standing Metal
Advantages
Metal roofing is a very lightweight material that’s easy for contractors to handle and install. Because of its lightweight consistency, there is less stress put on the structure of your property, which reduces the likelihood of frame damage. Many property owners find that metal roofing lasts at least fifty years before any degradation begins to show. Due to its long lifespan, fewer repairs and replacements are required resulting in long-term cost savings when compared to asphalt shingles. Metal roofing has a high fire rating and withstands damage from extreme weather conditions. It is also environmentally friendly and incredibly energy efficient due to its ability to release absorbed heat in higher temperatures and retain heat in colder temperatures.
Your property value will likely increase since metal roofing requires a higher initial cost and lasts longer. If selling your home in the future, potential buyers will be drawn to metal roofing because of its extreme benefits. There are many different styles of metal roofing, so you will be able to find a type that best fits your home. All in all, this material requires little to no maintenance if the roof was correctly installed. There is also potential that your home insurance premium could be lowered since metal roofing is much less likely to be damaged when compared to other roofing types.
Disadvantages
If choosing metal roofing, property owners can expect to spend more upfront, as previously mentioned. With the higher one-time cost, the cost of labor and equipment needed to complete the job will need to be accounted for as well. Since metal roofing is a unique choice, there are fewer contractors and installers who are equipped and skilled to install the structure correctly. It’s incredibly important to find a qualified and experienced contractor as metal roofing requires precision in the installation process as there’s no room for error. Individual communities or Homeowners Associations (HOAs) don’t allow metal roofing because it provides an industrial appearance, is inconsistent when compared to more popular roofing options, and can produce high glare. Before moving forward with metal roofing, it’s encouraged to check with your neighborhood or HOA to verify that this type of roofing is accepted.
Shingle Roofing
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials on the market today for commercial and residential property owners. The standard three-tab shingle is the most common type, but architectural asphalt shingles are also rising in popularity. Asphalt shingles are composed of a fiberglass core or matting with an asphalt coating and a ceramic or stone granule surface. These features are what increase their durability, and the granule surface protects the shingles from inclement weather conditions and UV rays. Architectural shingles are made up of the same material as asphalt shingles, but are of higher cost and are a heavier, thicker consistency. There are many benefits that asphalt shingles offer:
- Versatility in Design
- Affordability
- Easy Installation
- Readily Available
- Uniformity
- Simple to Do-It-Yourself
Advantages
There are many advantages to choosing shingle roofing when compared to metal. Homeowners tend to choose shingles because they are a cheaper one-time cost. Shingles come prepackaged and ready to be applied immediately unless alterations are needed, but ultimately shingles require less time and labor for both installation and replacement. If your home is damaged by inclement weather or another accident, shingles are much easier and cheaper to fix. Rather than having to remove large areas to discover the source of an issue, shingles can be removed, which allows for a smoother repair process. Asphalt shingles are also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly decision for your roofing needs.
Since shingles are relatively simple and easy to install, many contractors will install this material when compared to metal roofing. When choosing your contractor, it’s encouraged to verify qualifications and review project experience, so your roofing job is completed successfully and correctly. To ease the installation process, shingles are durable and provide excellent traction for workers. Due to the durability of shingles, this material can withstand high winds and inclement weather, giving you little to no issues with your home. Finally, many contractors and manufacturers offer extended warranties for shingle roofing, meaning you and your home will be protected in multiple scenarios.
Disadvantages
When it comes to choosing any product, there are always a few disadvantages. A roof made of asphalt shingles will last up to about 25 years before significant replacements or repairs are needed, but this is countered by many manufacturers and contractors providing warranties for property owners. With the shorter life span and cheaper initial costs, you may end up spending more in the long run if no warranties are provided, and your roof ends up needing a major repair or replacement. Some homeowners are apprehensive about the install process as shingles are attached to your roof with nails, in turn creating holes that could easily compromise the structure of your home if the installation is not correctly executed. Additionally, there are chances of mold, mildew, or algae growing on asphalt shingles if excess moisture is present and unable to dry. This is quickly resolved by adequately treating and caring for your roof as well as monitoring the condition regularly.
Points to Consider
Before choosing between metal roofing or shingles for your roofing material, it’s essential to consider all advantages and disadvantages as well as addressing how both materials benefit you and your property. Below are a few key points to focus on when it comes time to decide:
- Budget
- Roof Design
- Lifecycle of Your Property
- Climate and Environment of Your Location
- Involvement in an HOA or Municipality
- Finding a Qualified Contractor
While there may seem like a lot of steps go into choosing the right roofing material, your home needs proper protection to keep household members and your belongings safe. Upon compiling all the necessary information, it’s time to begin reaching out to qualified local contractors to start your roofing project.
