29 Sep Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Better For You?
Since asphalt shingles are such a common form of roofing, new homeowners might choose them for their home simply because they don’t see the benefit of researching any further. However, taking the time to look into metal shingles or other styles of metal roofing can save homeowners the frustrations that come with asphalt shingles. So, metal roof vs. shingles: which is better? This guide will talk through what sets these two styles of roofing apart by miles.
Defense Against the Elements
High-quality metal roofing can withstand abuse from the elements. Whether it’s tree branches or hail, metal roofing will offer better protection. However, the roof is going to encounter more than just hail during its lifetime, and luckily, it will be able to handle factors like high winds, intense heat from the sun, snow/ice during winter, and heavy rainfall as well. Asphalt shingles won’t stand up to these factors nearly as effectively.
For example, high winds can be destructive to asphalt shingles, as can moisture damage from heavy rainfall. Plus, metal roofing can withstand damage from fire, as it doesn’t support combustion, whereas asphalt shingles are likely to burn.
Weight, Temperature, and Eco-friendliness
It’s not unusual to assume that metal roofing would be heavier than asphalt shingles, but in reality, the complete opposite is true. Metal roofing is lightweight, so it won’t put excessive pressure on your home’s structure. The attic under an asphalt roof will get much hotter, as it produces a great amount of heat.
When this happens on a hot day, the air conditioning is going to be working overtime to keep the home nice and cool. Since metal roofing is far cooler and lighter weight, homeowners won’t have to worry about such issues. There are some metal roofs that come with Hi-R reflective pigments that will also allow the attic to be much cooler and be more energy efficient.
Lifespan
Homeowners who install asphalt shingles on their roof will have to replace them 10-12 years down the line. It’s simply a fact due to the nature of asphalt shingles. Installing a metal roof ensures a maintenance free lifetime roof. Metal roofing will sit on homes undisturbed for 50-100 years, which means at the minimum, a metal roof will last five times longer than asphalt shingles.
Now it’s time to return to our titular question—metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles: which is better for you? You decide. If you don’t plan to stay in your home more than 8-10 years, a metal roof may not be your best option. If you like the appearance of shingles but prefer the benefits of metal roofing, you can get the best of both worlds when you install metal shingles. If you’re a homeowner who is ready to install metal roofing in Durham, NC, reach out to us for more information.