Metal Roof vs. Shingles
If you’re moving into a new place, chances are you’ll be focusing on functional details, like what type of roof your new home has. A roof is incredibly important, and needs to be maintained. Chances are, sooner or later, you’re going to have to replace your roof.
Here’s where the debating comes in: metal roof vs. shingles. Whether you will change it or keep it as is, it’s good for every homeowner to keep in mind what types of materials are available for their roof, their properties, and which one is ideal for your home.
Different Types of Metal Roofing
Metal roofs have been trending lately due to their modern and sleek look, design varieties, and features. The different metal roofs available such as standing seam, shake inspired, tile-inspired, and slate inspired, are among the precise reasons it’s the chosen rooftops for many modern homes.
Different Types of Shingles
On the other hand, asphalt shingles are popular due to their more affordable price point and easy installation. This makes it a reasonably competitive choice to metal roofing. Asphalt roofing shingles come in three common types: strip shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles.
The Durability of a Metal Roof vs. Shingles
When choosing a roofing material, durability is one of the utmost priorities, as it is an essential foundation for your home.
The difference between metal roofing and roofing shingles in durability and longevity is that metal roofing lasts as long as 30 to 50 years, while roofing shingles last 25 to 30 years. Of course, this highly depends on geographic location and climatic environment, which puts metal roofing at a higher advantage due to the material’s nature.
When choosing between the two, consider your location and its climatic behavior. Does it have to withstand crazy weather conditions such as strong winds, storms, hail, and even fire? If yes, then chances are metal roofing is the recommended choice.
Cost Differences
For areas where weather conditions are consistent with the occasional sun and rain, roofing shingles tend to be more popular due to their relatively lower cost. When comparing them with a space of the same surface area, asphalt roofing shingles range about $12,000, whereas metal roofing can reach $20,000.
However, it is good to note that even though it’s budget-friendly upfront, it has a shorter lifespan, resulting in the need to replace it more often. If you intend to make your current home your forever home, then as much as metal roofing can be expensive, it is the more cost-effective option in the long run.
Installation: Metal Roof vs. Shingles
Roofing shingles are a handy homeowners’ favorite. With a comparatively lower cost, there is room to save up, especially with basic roofing knowledge. It’s not recommended to do it yourself; however, sourcing for contractors to work on it is generally easy.
On the flip side, highly skilled professionals can only install metal roofs due to their intricacies. The materials are pre-measured and fabricated in workshops before installation, which is a labor-intensive job on its own.
Maintenance
One of the most significant advantages of metal roofing is its low maintenance. Due to its susceptibility to weather conditions, there is a lesser need for repairs.
However, it can get dented, and this is where maintenance can be a hassle as it means changing the whole part, thus needing to hire a professional. It is easier to repair or replace roofing shingles with basic tools and equipment for a do-it-yourself project.
What is the Eco-Friendliness of a Metal Roof vs. Shingles?
Depending on the level of importance eco-friendly roofing is to you, it’s good to know that a high percentage of metal roofing is made from recycled materials. It is also energy-efficient as it reflects heat away, unlike roofing shingles, which retain heat quickly.
The fact that once a metal roofing’s lifespan is over, it can be 100% recyclable, leaving no room for waste, makes it the clear winner for eco-friendly roofing.
Design Varieties
We saved this one for last, as the design varieties for both are endless. Roofing shingles have always been a traditional option, with a wide range of colors and a familiar layered effect throughout. It gives a sense of depth and dimension.
As for metal roofing, they tend to attain a sleek, minimal concept, with most homes embracing a clean, linear look. Metal roofs can also adopt the look that shingles are known for, which then boils down to what works best for you and your own home.
Metal Roof vs. Shingles Pros and Cons
Consider your options by questioning what works best for you, from your budget to your home’s look, style, and feel. Below is a compiled list of pros and cons for metal roofing and roofing shingles to help you decide on what works best for your home. Remember, there is no right or wrong option!
Pros of Metal Roofs
- High durability in different weather conditions
- Longevity of up to 30 to 50 years
- It does not require maintenance, except for general cleaning
- An eco-friendly option
- Several design varieties
Cons of Metal Roofs
- Expensive
- Requires highly skilled professionals
- Repairs for damages are a hassle and can be costly
Pros of Roofing Shingles
- Budget-friendlier upfront costs
- A great option for consistent weather conditions
- Relatively easy to install
- You can replace individual shingles
- Several design varieties
Cons of Roofing Shingles
- Not susceptible to heavy weather conditions
- Longevity of up to only 25 to 30 years
- Requires more maintenance in the long run