When it comes to choosing a new roof for your home or commercial building, you have several options to consider. Two of the most popular choices are metal and asphalt roof shingles, each with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will take a closer look at both metal and asphalt roof shingles, comparing their durability and longevity, cost, energy efficiency, appearance, installation, and environmental impact. These two roofing materials offer unique and versatile options for individuals looking to upgrade their roofs.
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Metal Roof Shingles: Pros and Cons
Metal roof shingles are a type of roofing that is made out of metal, typically aluminum, steel, or copper. Metal panel roofing is designed to look like traditional asphalt shingles but is more durable and has a lifespan of 70 years. Metal roofing system can be made to mimic the appearance of other roofing materials, such as wood, tile, or slate, but with the added benefit of being more resistant to fire, wind, and extreme weather conditions.
Pros Of Metal Shingle Roofs
Durability: Metal roofing, such as standing seam metal roofing, is a durable and strong roofing option that is resistant to damage, chipping, and high winds. Additionally, it is known to require less maintenance and repairs compared to other materials.
Aesthetics: This material provides a pleasant appearance, and although it might not appear more natural than other types of roofs, it gives the appearance of slate and cedar roofing tiles without the care of natural materials. The roofs last longer and may require less maintenance. Additionally, it is worth noting that the roof may be more affordable and provide a better return on investment in the long run.
Energy-efficient and sustainable: Steel roofing is 100% recyclable. This means scraps and leftovers of installation and the entire roof system once you’re ready to upgrade may be reused. This makes steel roofing an environmentally friendly option compared to other roof types. It is also a durable and long-lasting option, as it is able to withstand extreme weather conditions. Additionally, it’s worth noting that steel roofing comes in a variety of types of metal roof options such as galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel, each with its own unique benefits and characteristics.
Fire Resistance: Metal roofing provides a superior quality of fire-proofing than other materials such as wood shake. This makes it a desirable option for homeowners and building owners who are looking for a safe and reliable roofing material that can withstand fire hazards. Additionally, metal roofing is also known for its longevity, and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice among homeowners and building owners.
Lightweight: Metal shingles are considerably lightweight materials. This makes it simple to lift and transport this material up onto the roof, and also easy to install. This is a big advantage for building owners who are looking for a material that is easy to install metal and maintain. Additionally, metal shingles can be made of different types of metal such as seam metal, aluminum, or copper, each with its own unique benefits and characteristics. However, it’s important to keep in mind that metal shingles still require regular roof maintenance such as cleaning and painting to maintain their longevity.
Snow Control: Because metal roofs heat up fast, even in cold climates it permits the snow to melt and slide off the roof. This can reduce the weight the roof has to hold during the winter. This is a big advantage for building owners who live in areas where heavy snowfall is common. Additionally, metal roofs are also known for their resistance to elements such as hail, wind, and fire, making them a popular choice among homeowners and building owners. Furthermore, metal roofs are also eco-friendly because they are 100% recyclable and can be reused or recycled in a landfill, instead of ending up in a landfill.
Cons Of Metal Shingle Roofs
- Costs are higher than other materials: Metal roofing is a premium option that can be pricy, and can cost up to thirty dollars per square foot, which is higher than other materials. However, it is important to note that while the initial cost of a metal roof may be higher, it is a long-lasting and durable option that requires less maintenance over time, and thus may provide a better return on investment in the long run.
- Snow Control: The ability to control snow and the capacity of a roof made of metal to let the snow slide off of its surface is regarded as a benefit but it also falls into the negative category. When the snow melts and falls off of the roof then it falls to the ground and then accumulates in a mass just below the roofing line. In cold climates, it means that the snow is removed more than required at the surface. Different shingle materials can hold the snow up on the surface so that it melts more slowly, reducing the amount of ground-level snow removal that is required.
- Installation: The installation of snow guards on the roof of a metal structure limits how much snow falls onto the ground. However, snow can accumulate behind the guards, which can increase the burden that the roof is required to support.
- Not as real as other Materials: Metal shingles replicate the appearance of cedar shakes as well as slate, however, they can’t replicate the natural color variations that are present in the natural slate and shakes and you can usually tell the differences.
Asphalt Roof Shingle: Pros and Cons
Asphalt shingles are produced using an elastomeric mat that is coated with filled with asphalt. The filler material is heated before being laid over the mat, and afterward covered in crushed stone specifically designed to create a distinctive color and resistance to weather. The material will be covered by a sand layer to fill in any gaps and to provide further protection.
Pros Of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Accessible and Affordable: Asphalt shingles are usually the most cost-effective type of roofing shingle. They are typically seen in the vast majority of roofing across the U.S., so they can be found at most hardware stores and they’re easy to obtain if you’ve got a roofing project that requires to be completed in a short time.
- The product is offered in a Variety of Styles: There are three kinds of asphalt shingles – 3-tab, dimensional, and luxurious. The 3-tab, also known as the strip-shingle type is considered to be the simplest kind of asphalt shingle that looks like a flat roof. This type of shingle is used the most sought-after, however, now dimensional shingles are being used more frequently. Dimensional shingles are deeper and size and can replicate the look of slate roofs. This type of shingle can be often referred to as an architectural or laminated shingle. It is the most commonly used kind of asphalt shingle. Luxury shingles are superior to dimensional ones and offer different options for design. They usually have a layering appearance and a variety of shingle forms to give more depth.
- Multi-faceted: They might seem like a less striking, or visually appealing choice for residential roofing, however, they’re extremely adaptable and can be put in virtually any design of the home. This makes them a versatile and practical option for homeowners who want a material that can easily blend in with their home’s overall design. Additionally, they are also known for their durability, longevity, and low maintenance requirements, making them a popular choice among homeowners and building owners. Furthermore, their versatility also makes them easy to install, which can lead to a more efficient and cost-effective roof installation process.
- Increased Protection: Modern asphalt shingles offer greater protection over earlier styles of asphalt shingles, with some providing protection from streaks caused by algae, a high-grade adhesive that prevents wind uplift, and a Class A fire rating that protects against fires.
Cons Of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Wind Resistance: If you’ve ever walked around following a storm with strong winds, chances are you’ve witnessed homes with a few pieces of shingles torn off. Asphalt shingles don’t offer the same protection from wind uplift as other types of materials.
- Granule Loss: The granules of the fiberglass mat of asphalt shingles protect against the elements, however, the granules break down with time, making the mat at risk of damage and leaks.
- Do not last as long as Other Materials: Asphalt shingles can last only 20 years. When you compare this with other materials and consider the expenses you’ll have to incur, it might not be the best option for everyone.
What’s the Best Roofing Material For Homeowners?
In conclusion, metal and asphalt roof shingles are two popular options for builders looking to upgrade or replace their roofs. Both materials have their own unique set of advantages and drawbacks, and the choice between them will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of both materials and to consider factors such as lifespan, cost, maintenance, and the climate of your area before choosing the right roof for your home. It’s also important to note that Metal roofing, while durable and long-lasting, requires a bit more maintenance than Asphalt roofing, such as regular inspection and cleaning to maintain a metal roof in optimal condition. It’s crucial to choose a roof that will provide the best protection and return on investment for your home.
Metal roof shingles are highly durable, energy-efficient, and fire-resistant, making them a great option for homes in areas prone to extreme weather conditions or wildfires. However, they can be more expensive than asphalt shingles, and may not be the best option for homes with a traditional or historic aesthetic. Additionally, it’s important to note that Metal roofing, while durable and long-lasting, requires a bit more maintenance than Asphalt roofing and may need to be replaced more frequently.
On the other hand, Asphalt shingles are widely available and have a lower cost than metal roof shingles, they are also easy to install and are available in a wide variety of colors and styles and it is easy to clean asphalt shingles. However, they may not be as durable or energy-efficient as metal roof shingles, and may not be the best option for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions. It’s important to make the right decision and choose a roof that will provide the best protection and return on investment for the building.
Ultimately, the choice between metal and asphalt roof shingles will depend on your budget, the style of your home, and the climate in your area. It’s recommended to consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine the best option for your home.
