Your roof is your shelter against the effects of the elements and time. So, it’s important to choose wisely when it comes to roof installation. Each roofing material has its own benefits, and the best one depends entirely on your unique situation. While metal roofing is great for long-term durability, asphalt shingle roofing systems are easier on the pocket upon initial installation. So, if you’re planning on replacing your roof or you’re just a curious reader comparing the two, this blog gives you a few ways to decide for yourself which is the superior choice for a residential roof replacement.
Metal VS Asphalt Shingle: Cost, Aesthetics & More
Is your roof reaching the last leg of its life? Thinking about a roof replacement can be an exciting way to upgrade the look, comfort, and value of your property. However, picking between metal and asphalt shingles can be a bit tricky. This is why we’ve prepared a checklist, highlighting various categories for you to conduct a fair comparison between the two materials.
Read along and take notes to make the right choice for your own roofing project.
- Installation Costs
When it comes to putting up metal roofing, a lot of people are deterred when they glance at the price per square foot. Compare that to the cost of asphalt shingle roof installation, and you’ve got a roofing material that’s much more pocket-friendly to buy. So, if you’ve got money to spare, metal roofing all the way; but for a budget-conscious homeowner, asphalt shingle is the better choice.
- lifespan
The next factor that should be kept in mind is how long each roofing material lasts. Asphalt shingle usually has a lifespan of about 15-30 years. On the other hand, metal roofing lasts well over fifty years on average. So, if you’re interested in a one-and-done deal, metal roofing is the way to go. However, if you like change, choose asphalt shingles instead.
- Durability
Asphalt shingles aren’t the most durable material. They wear down due to UV damage and break off, and disappear during strong winds. On the other hand, metal roofing is celebrated for its resilience against environmental factors. So, if you’re looking for a roofing material that can withstand harsh climatic conditions, metal roofing is it.
- Labor Considerations
Due to the complex nature of metal roofing, it requires skilled and experienced labor to install. On the other hand, if it’s asphalt shingle roofing we’re talking about, it doesn’t require as much precision or skill. So, consider that when deciding between the two.
- Your Roof Size
Another important factor to consider is the square footage of your roof. While a metal roofing system might look pricy, it can be quite affordable if your house is small. Compare that to a large house, and you might find that an asphalt shingle roof is the cheaper option.
- Sustainability
While asphalt shingles aren’t necessarily sustainable, metal is a great choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners. It’s about 25-95% made of recycled material and can be recycled completely. So, if you’re looking to reduce the load on the nearest landfill, a metal roof is the superior choice.
- Energy Efficiency
Very important. Metal roofing is celebrated for its energy efficiency. It reflects sunlight instead of absorbing it, making it ideal for hot and humid climates. Compare that to asphalt shingle roofing, which isn’t as insulating. So if lowering monthly expenses is one of your goals, go for metal roof installation.
- Aesthetic Preferences
Do you prefer the look of a traditional home, or is it a sleek and stylish residential property that you’re interested in? Depending on your answer, you can either go for asphalt shingle roofing for its ties to nostalgia or go for a metal roof for a modern look.
- Property Value
For all the benefits mentioned above, interested parties are known to pay a higher amount for houses with metal roofing. However, traditional asphalt shingle roofing isn’t that lucky. So, if you ever decide to sell your house in the future, a metal roof will get you a higher price.
Conclusion
At the end, each roofing material has its own unique benefits, and the best fit for your home depends on several different factors. Take into consideration things like your local weather, the lifespan of the roofing material, and the size of your roof when deciding between the two roofing systems, and make sure to look through rebates to make your final choice. We hope this blog helped you make an informed decision regarding your residential roofing project. For further inquiries, please ask.
FAQs
Can I install a metal roof over an existing roof?
Yes, with furring strips, you can install it over a shingle roof.
What is the cost of asphalt shingle roofing?
The cost lies between $2 and $6 per square foot, depending on the type.
How often should I have my roof inspected?
Schedule inspections at least once a year and after every major weather event.