When it comes time to replace your roof, whether it is before you move into your new home or have lived in the house for some time, there are several options available to you. Asphalt shingles have been the default roofing material for a long time due to their reliability, ease of maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. However, there are several options to consider, including metal. Metal has become the second most popular roofing material due to its longevity, durability, and numerous styles you can choose from. Below, we will look at both roofing materials to help you make the right choice for your roof replacement.
Finishing Options
Asphalt shingles often have a traditional look that is familiar to most people. However, manufacturers are now ditching this traditional look and producing shingles that mimic slate, tile, and wood shakes. Manufacturers have also improved their color palettes, with a host of different finishes being added to complement the types of homes you would like to use the shingles on.
Traditionally, metal roofs were made out of corrugated sheets and panels. Now, metal roofing comes in many styles to suit different homes. The different roofing options are suited for different types of homes, from contemporaries to Victorians, and come in a variety of colors and finishes.
Because you can get metal and shingle roofing that suits your home, looks and aesthetics should not be the only factors to consider when choosing between metal roofing and asphalt shingles; you should also consider the materials’ performance.
Durability and Performance
Metal roofs can withstand almost anything including the worst rain, hail, and snow. This is why metal roofs will usually have a 25 to 50-year warranty. The type of material the roof is made out of, be it tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, or galvanized metals, will determine its durability so discuss how the different metals perform with your contractor.
Shingles have their own unique set of weaknesses and this is why they do not last as long as metal roofs do. Damp conditions caused by pooling water or even the weather can lead to the growth of mold, ice dams during winter can cause the shingles to crack, and wildly fluctuating temperatures can reduce the roof’s lifespan. This is why asphalt shingle roofs usually have a 15 to 30-year warranty.
Cost
Cost is especially important if you are looking to sell a house as you do not want to incur more than you can recoup, and when you move into a new house as you need it to be trouble-free for as long as possible. Asphalt shingles are a lot cheaper than metal, with the cost of installing a metal roof further increased by the installation cost. This is because metal roofs require a specialized contractor.
Conclusion
Choosing between metal roofing and asphalt shingles for your roof replacement will depend on severalfactors, with the most common ones being cost, durability, aesthetics, and ease of repairs. While shingles are easier to install and repair and are cheaper, metal roofs last for longer and come in a wider variety of looks and aesthetics to cater to different types of homes.
