As a homeowner, are you unsure of what roof best suits your needs and preferences? Do you have questions about whether asphalt shingle or metal roofing makes more sense for your situation? As the two most popular roofing styles, many homeowners debate which option to select. Each alternative has distinct benefits worth considering when it comes time to replace a roof. How does a metal roof compare to shingles? Below you’ll find an brief overview & comparison so that you can make the right choice for your home.
How Does a Metal Roof Compare To Shingles
Many crucial factors impact the choice between metal and asphalt shingle roofing. Homeowners must compare and contrast performance, lifespan, durability, and affordability, among other considerations. When analyzing a roofing material, homeowners also need to scrutinize the roofing contractor’s qualifications, including knowledge and experience.
Advantages Of Choosing A Metal Roof
Extended Longevity
One of the most significant differences between metal and shingle roofing is the average lifespan. On average, metal roofs last as much as 40 to 60 years (or more). Copper or zinc metal roofing has been known to withstand replacement between 80 and 100 years. Very few asphalt shingle roofs have more than 35 years of longevity before requiring a new roof.
Greater Wind Resistance
Weather performance affects what roofing material a homeowner prefers. When comparing metal to shingle, metal easily stands out as more durable in extreme weather conditions, including strong winds, cold temperatures, and damaging hail. Metal becomes a particularly attractive alternative for homes in regions susceptible to hurricanes, tropical storms, or tornadoes.
Higher Fire Resistance
Nearly all types of metal roofing receive a Class A Fire Rating (the highest grade of fire resistance available) due to their non-combustibility. In regions prone to wildfires or an increased fire risk, metal becomes the preferred roofing alternative compared to other options, including shingle. That said, many newer shingle products have been receiving a Class A Fire Rating.
Less Maintenance
The amount of upkeep required to maintain metal is minimal compared to other types of roofing, including shingles. Unlike asphalt shingle (which consists of organic compounds), metal is not subject to degradation. This performance advantage allows metal roofing to self-clean. That noted, a periodic inspection and routine preventative may extend the lifespan of the average metal roof.
Lower Long-Term Cost
Although metal costs much more initially to install than shingle, owning a metal roof is less expensive in the long term. Two primary reasons explain this phenomenon. First, metal does not need replacement for 50 to 100 years on average. Shingle requires replacement every 25-30 years on average. Second, shingle typically demands much more maintenance and upkeep compared to metal.
More Environmentally-Friendly
Metal remains the preferred choice for homeowners seeking a green roofing alternative to asphalt shingle (a byproduct of crude oil refining). In many cases, metal is made from earth-friendly recycled materials. Manufacturers use recycled materials to forge 95% of new aluminum metal roofing. Nearly all metal roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Benefits Of Selecting A Shingle Roof
Easier Installation
Compared to metal, shingle is easier to install for the average roofing contractor. Mounting metal requires specialized tools and extensive knowledge and skill.
Enhanced Insulation
Because asphalt is made of a dark, dense material, it tends to absorb more heat from the sun than metal. As such, shingle roofing may have added insulating value.
Less Noisy
Asphalt shingle roofing typically has a lower noise level, 6 and 15 decibels less than metal. This difference is relatively negligible for most people, but it can make a marked difference for those sensitive to noise.
Lower Repair Expenses
If a repair becomes necessary for metal roofing, on average, the cost to fix the damage tends to be significantly more expensive than with asphalt shingle roofs.
More Economical In The Short-Term
Most roofing companies charge 50-100% more to install metal than shingle roofing. This price difference reflects the relative difference in material and labor costs.
Readily Available
Although metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular and available, asphalt shingle remains the accepted standard for nearly four out of five homeowners.
Provides Traditional Look
Many homeowners prefer the aesthetic appearance of asphalt shingle roofing. Over multiple generations, shingle has remained the most popular option in roofing.
Style And Color Flexibility
Asphalt shingle roofing comes in a wide range of attractive alternatives. Today, homeowners can choose almost any color and many shapes, styles, and patterns.
Working With The Right Roofing Company
For homeowners throughout the Pacific Northwest, S&S Roofing has the expertise to assist with any residential roof repair, restoration, or replacement needs. As this region’s most experienced and qualified roofing contractor, we will roof your home like it is our own. Our reputation for service excellence and quality workmanship distinguishes us from the competition.
Honesty and affordability define our ideal customer service experience. When you hire us for your next roofing project, trust that we will listen closely to your needs and do the job right the first time. As our company motto provides, “We give a fair price for a high-quality job.” To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
