The variety of roofing options can floor you. It is normal to feel overwhelmed by the choices and look for some reliable source of information.
Photo by Ryunosuke Kikuno on Unsplash
Well, here is what you are looking for. This post will guide you through the pros and cons of the two most popular residential roofing options, metal and asphalt shingles.
Once you know all the benefits and understand the basic challenges, it is easy to make a decision. Before we dive into the comparisons let us take a look at some history and commonly available varieties of these roofing materials.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingles have been used to make roofs for centuries. The construction of asphalt shingles and its durability has improved owing to the advancements in technology. The best thing about asphalt shingles is that the style never gets old.
The roofing material has stood the test of time and is here to stay for many years. It is available in a variety of colors and textures. Each shingle has fiberglass core or matting covered with an asphalt coating. The asphalt is reinforced by ceramic or stone granules. The granules are effective in blocking away the UV light from asphalt.
The most common type of shingles is three-tab shingles. Another popular variety of asphalt shingles is laminate or dimensional shingles. They are more expensive, heavy, and durable as compared to traditional asphalt shingles.
Metal Roofing System
The metal was used as a roofing material for commercial buildings, factories, and warehouses in the past. It has gained immense popularity as a residential roofing material. Metal is the most durable roofing material.
It offers amazing benefits that will be further discussed in the post. Six common types of metal roofing are discussed briefly.
- Tin roofs are inexpensive and easy to install. The name is generally used for steel or aluminum roofs.
- Steel roofs are the most durable. They are expensive but can withstand contraction and expansion.
- Aluminum roofs are affordable and do not corrode. They are easily recycled.
- Copper is a naturally occurring recyclable material. It is quite expensive and is generally used for decorative purposes.
- Zinc is another expensive roofing material but it can last up to 100 years. It is recyclable and easy to shape.
Metal Roofs VS Shingles
1. Costs
| Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofs |
| The average cost of an asphalt shingle roof is between $60-$90 per square. An average roof is about 2000 square feet so the cost before installation ranges from $1200-$1800. | The average cost of an asphalt shingle roof is between $100-$200 per square. An average roof is about 2000 square feet so the cost before installation ranges from $2000-$3000. |
An asphalt shingle roof is the most affordable of these two options.
2. Aesthetic Appeals
| Roofing Material | Pros | Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles | It is one of the most visually appealing roofing options. | Some homeowners may find the traditional look of the roof boring. |
| Metal | Variety of shades and colors are available to make attractive metal roofs. | It may look out of the place in suburban areas. |
3. Durability
| Roofing Material | Pros | Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles | Heavyweight asphalt shingles are less prone to uplifting due to high impact winds. | Asphalt shingles can only last up to 15 years. |
| Metal | Metal roofs are extremely durable. They can last up to a lifetime. | Metal is prone to denting. |
4. Energy Efficiency
| Roofing Material | Pros | Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles | Dark colors absorb heat in winters and reduce heating costs. | The dark color absorbs heat in summers and renders affect energy efficiency. |
| Metal | Metal roofing reduces energy consumption in houses.It is typically made of recycled materials so it is considered a greener option. | Poor installation can affect energy efficiency. |
5. Life Expectancy
| Asphalt Shingle | Metal Roof |
| The average life expectancy of an asphalt roof is about 15-20 years with regular maintenance. | Metal roofs last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance. |
6. Resistance
| Roofing Material | Pros | Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles | Asphalt roofs are safe in fires. | Standard varieties are vulnerable to rot and harsh weather.Hail and UV rays damage it over time. |
| Metal | It is resistant to fires, weather, pest infestation, and rot. | Poor maintenance results in rusting. |
7. Resale Value
| Roofing Material | Pros | Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles | Asphalt is the most common material so it blends will the neighborhood. | The traditional varieties offer no significant ROI value. |
| Metal | Metal roofs have high ROI values. Home with metal roofing systems sells faster. | If the style does not fit buyers’ tastes, it plays the opposite role. |
Conclusion
A metal roof is the most reliable option when it comes to durability, resistance, life expectancy, resale value, and energy efficiency. The only drawback is the high upfront costs. If you can’t afford the costs, asphalt shingle roof may be the best option for you.
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