Metal Roofs vs Shingles: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

When it’s time to replace your roof, you’re faced with a significant decision: choosing the right material. The debate between metal and asphalt roofing is ongoing, and both options come with their distinct advantages and challenges.

In this article, Country Towne will walk you through a detailed comparison between metal roofs vs asphalt shingles, helping you as homeowners to make an informed decision for your new roof.

Overview – Metal Roofs vs Shingles

Asphalt Shingles: The Traditional Choice

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material seen on homes across North America. They’re made from a fibreglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. This type of roofing is valued for its cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and wide range of colour options. Asphalt shingle roofs are suitable for most residential homes, offering a lifespan of 15 to 30 years depending on the quality and maintenance.

Metal Roofing: Durable and Efficient

Metal roofs, on the other hand, are gaining popularity for their durability, energy efficiency, and longevity. Constructed from metal panels or shingles, these roofs can be made from various metals like aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc. Metal roofing systems are known for their resistance to extreme weather, fire, and wind. They can last up to 50 years or more with minimal maintenance, making them a great long-term investment.

Key Comparisons

1. Cost: Initial vs. Long-Term

Metal Roof Cost

Metal roofs might cost a bit more at the outset, but they start to pay off after the first major windstorm, leading to savings every year. Yet, this perspective is changing in today’s market. With the price of shingles and the effort required to remove and dispose of them, the price gap between asphalt and metal roofing has significantly decreased.

Over decades, homeowners save on energy bills and maintenance costs, making metal roofing or corrugated steel roofs an economically wise choice in the long run.

Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost

Asphalt shingles often come across as a more affordable roofing option, appealing to those on a tight budget or not looking to keep their home long-term. However, the market has been changing, some metal roofs are now less expensive than asphalt. Asphalt’s appeal lies in its traditional look and the option for a change in 20 years. However, metal roofs, offering longer life and potentially lower overall costs, are becoming a smarter choice for homeowners when it comes to long-term savings.

2. Durability and Lifespan

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs excel in durability and are capable of resisting severe weather conditions like high winds, heavy rain, and even wildfires. Their resilience against decay, pest invasions, metal roof leaks, and mould growth further enhances their appeal. With a lifespan extending from 40 to 70 years, metal roofs stand as a testament to longevity, often remaining functional for the entirety of a homeowner’s time in the residence.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingle roofing, while versatile and popular, shows greater susceptibility to weather-related damage. High winds can lift shingles, and heavy rain can lead to leaks. Regular inspection and maintenance can extend their lifespan, typically ranging from 15 to 30 years. For homeowners in regions prone to severe weather, considering the durability of new roofing material like metal is key to ensuring protection and reducing future repair needs.

3. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Metal Roofing

A metal roof offers better energy efficiency by reflecting solar radiant heat, significantly lowering cooling costs during warm months. This reflectivity contributes to a reduction in energy consumption and costs. Additionally, metal roofs support environmental sustainability, made from a high percentage of recycled materials and being fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle, promoting a cycle of reuse that lessens environmental impact.

Asphalt Roofs

Conversely, asphalt shingles absorb more solar heat, potentially increasing interior temperatures and raising air conditioning needs. While advancements have introduced more energy-efficient shingle options, the traditional asphalt roof’s environmental impact remains higher due to its petroleum-based manufacturing and shorter lifespan. These factors make asphalt roofing less favourable for homeowners prioritizing energy costs and environmental sustainability.

4. Aesthetic and Design

Metal Roofs

The aesthetic versatility of modern metal roofing allows homeowners to choose from a variety of styles and finishes. Whether the preference is for a standing seam metal roof or tiles that resemble traditional shingles or even wood shakes, metal roofing can complement any architectural design. The broad range of colours and finishes available enables seamless integration with both traditional and contemporary homes, adding a touch of elegance and modernity.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingles continue to offer a broad palette of colours and styles, including options that emulate the look of wood, slate, or tile. The availability of three-tab and architectural shingles allows for a custom look that can enhance the curb appeal of any home. This versatility ensures that asphalt shingles remain a go-to option for homeowners seeking to match their roofing with the existing aesthetic of their homes.

5. Installation and Maintenance

Metal Roof Installation

Metal roofs require expertise and precision, often demanding specialized roofing contractors to install. This complexity can lead to a higher cost of installation but results in a roof that demands little to no maintenance over its lifespan. Metal roofing panels stand up to the elements with ease, making them a hassle-free option for homeowners after the initial installation.

Shingle Roof Installation

In contrast, asphalt shingle installation is more straightforward, allowing a wider range of roofing professionals to undertake the task. This ease of installation can be a significant advantage, but it’s important to note that shingle roofs may require more frequent maintenance. Tasks such as roof replacement of damaged shingles and addressing algae or moss growth are common, necessitating a more proactive approach to roof maintenance for homeowners choosing this material.

Which Option Should I Choose?

If your priorities are long-term savings, durability, and environmental responsibility, a metal roof is a superior choice compared to any other materials. It’s ideal for homeowners planning to stay in their homes long enough to enjoy the benefits of their investment. Despite the higher initial cost, metal roofing can lead to lower energy costs, and minimal maintenance, and could even outlive the structure it protects.

Additionally, for those in areas prone to severe weather, the resilience of metal roofs against high winds, heavy rain, and even fire makes them a wise choice.

Plus, the variety of styles means you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics to get these benefits.

Conclusion: Metal Roof vs Shingles

Choosing between metal roofs and shingles depends on various factors, including budget, aesthetic preference, climate, and long-term goals. Metal roofing offers durability, energy savings, and a long lifespan but at a higher initial cost. Asphalt shingles, meanwhile, provide a cost-effective solution with traditional appeal, though they may not last as long or offer the same level of energy cost savings.

While metal roofs offer numerous advantages over asphalt roofs and other roofing materials, it’s essential to consider your specific needs, including the existing roof structure, roof pitch, and whether you’re replacing an old roof or working on a new roofing project.

Consulting with a reputable roofing contractor like Country Towne can help you navigate your options and make the best choice for your home and budget.