Asphalt shingle roofing is by far the most popular choice for homes. However, metal roofing is rapidly gaining ground as homeowners and businesses become aware of its superior durability and long-term cost-effectiveness. This is not to say shingled roofs are not durable and effective, they are. When it comes to aesthetic appeal, it’s purely a matter of personal taste. Each roof type comes with certain advantages and disadvantages, which should be explored in depth.
Metal Roofs vs Shingle Roofs
To properly sort out the relative pros and cons of metal and shingle roofs, it’s necessary to do a side by side comparison.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
- Long lasting
- Variety in style options
- High durability
- Resilience to the elements
- Ease of painting and sealing
- High energy efficiency
- Better resale value
Advantages of Shingle Roofs
- More traditional appearance
- Initial affordability
- Lower labor costs
- Good for DIY enthusiasts
- Fits in better in most neighborhoods
Metal vs Shingle: Pros & Cons
Metal Roofs
Energy-efficient and durable, metal roofs offer a clean and sleek look that comes in a variety of colors and forms. These include tile, wooden shake, and standing seam. Metal roofing is resilient to high wind and harsh weather, but may need special protection from moisture to prevent oxidation.
Shingled Roofs
Still the most popular roof type for homes, they come in a wide variety of colors and textures, provide a good value and fit in more in traditional neighborhoods.
Side by Side Comparison
Cost-Effectiveness
Shingle roofing is less expensive initially. However, over time the cost of repairs and replacements will make a noticeable difference. The materials are relatively inexpensive, as are labor costs. DIYers can save money by doing the work themselves.
Metal roofing is a slightly more expensive investment upfront. But the superior insulation capabilities and low maintenance requirements make them far less expensive in the long term.
Soundproofing
Asphalt shingles are good as soundproofing. Professional sound studios will still want to invest in additional soundproofing insulation.
Metal roofs are less resistant to sound penetration, but with adequate insulation, they can be made quite soundproof.
Durability
Shingle roofing is reasonably durable. Having been used on family homes for decades, it’s clear that the durability of this type of roofing is sufficient. Most shingle roofs will last between 15 and 30 years before significant repairs are needed.
There is no comparison between the durability of shingle and metal roofing. Metal roofs will last for decades and are commonly backed by 50-year warranties.
Fire Resistance
Shingle roofs made from asphalt and fiberglass are fairly fire-resistant, especially when they are new. Once they age and begin to dry out, their fire resisting capability drops. Organic shingles offer poor fire resistance.
Metal roofs are truly fire resistant. In addition, the reduced weight of metal roofing actually provides a safety element to firefighters when a fire does occur. Metal roofing weighs in at less than 100 pounds per square, whereas shingle or tile roofing is often over 1000 pounds per square. The increased weight of shingle roofing can cause firefighters not to enter a structure due to the danger of collapse.
Insulation Value
Asphalt tiles have good insulating properties in winter, but trap a lot of heat during the summer.
Metal roofs are not as good at insulating from the cold and will require some additional insulation in especially cold climates. In hot weather, on the other hand, metal roofs are an excellent way to keep HVAC costs low. In Louisiana and Mississippi, a metal roof is the clear winner when it comes to insulating properties and energy efficiency.
Here at ADCO Metals, we specialize in the installation of high-quality metal roofing. Get in touch today to learn how we can meet your roofing needs, while keeping your costs low in the long term.
