There’s no doubt about it – the two most widely used roofing materials on the market today are asphalt and metal. The real question is: what roofing material is the best for your home?
According to Consumer Reports, “Asphalt shingles remain far and away the most popular choice because they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install.” But depending on where you live, how long you plan to live there, and what aesthetic you want, there are many reasons to choose metal roofing, too.
If you’re shopping for a new roof, here are some key things to consider when comparing metal vs. shingle roofing.
While more expensive, metal roofs can last for more than 50 years, twice as long as asphalt.
Cost
When it comes to metal roof cost vs. shingles, asphalt shingles are far less expensive. Here at B&B Siding and Roofing, an asphalt shingle overlay (re-shingle over your current roofing) can be as low as $325 per square, and a complete tear-off can range from $550 to $750 per square. Metal roofing, on the other hand, ranges between $800 and $1,500 per square. As we mentioned in an earlier post, procrastination can be the greatest cost on many roofing replacements. That’s because the cost of labor and materials is trending sharply upward, has been for years, and will likely continue. Bottom line, the longer you wait to replace your roof, the bigger hit to your wallet.
How much will it cost to replace your roof? Here’s everything you need to know.
Longevity
When comparing metal roofing versus shingles, metal can last for more than 50 years, and asphalt shingles typically have a lifespan of 20-25 years. As you weigh your options and assess return on investment, you might consider how long you plan to live in your house. Will it be your forever home, or do plan to sell? Forbes reported that “a roof replacement will return somewhere around 60% of its value in a real estate transaction.” If you plan to sell your home in the near future, it might make more sense to invest in an affordable asphalt shingle roof than a more expensive metal option.
B&B Siding and Roofing offers an unprecedented 50-year material warranty, and a lifetime labor warranty, for as long as you own your home. And if you sell, your warranties are transferable to the second owner, which is a huge selling point. Learn more …
Asphalt shingles provide exceptional weatherproofing and are more durable than ever.
Performance
When it comes to performance, metal roofing is highly durable, improves energy efficiency, sheds rain and snow easily, and is great at resisting rot and mildew. But if not properly coated, metal roofing is susceptible to rust, which can be a problem in wet, humid, and coastal regions. According to a national insurance agency, metal roofs reflect the sun’s UV and infrared light rays that contribute to roof surface radiant heat, which can result in a 10-25% reduction in cooling costs. Home improvement expert Bob Vila shares “Thanks to [metal roofs] unique durability, you can count on it to withstand the elements—including gusts of wind up to 140 miles per hour—and not corrode nor crack thanks to rust-proof coatings.”
Asphalt shingles provide exceptional weatherproofing, offer EnergyStar compliant options, and are more durable than ever. Class 4 impact-resistant asphalt shingles offer extra durability against tears and impacts in tornado, hurricane, and hail-prone regions, and may reduce your insurance premium. Standard asphalt shingles may need occasional maintenance or repair after a violent storm or as the roof ages.
How tough are asphalt shingles? GAF put their shingles to the test against water, fire, and hurricane-force winds in this amazing video.
Fire Safety
Metal roofing has a class A fire rating, the best rating possible according to American Family Insurance. Can you put a metal roof over shingles? Yes, it can be done, but your fire rating could drop down as low as a C, according to the insurance company. For homeowners living in wildfire-prone areas, a metal roof is a good choice and can lower monthly insurance premiums.
Aesthetics
Asphalt shingles have come a long way in recent years. With so many cool textures, colors, and styles to choose from, this is definitely not your dad’s asphalt shingle! Whether you choose a standard three-tab shingle, a dimensional shingle that mimics natural slate or wood shakes, or a premium shingle that offers enhanced beauty as well as performance, asphalt shingles offer something for everyone.
With metal roofs, you have many options, including materials such as aluminum, copper, tin, or galvanized steel,a variety of colors and styles like standing-seam vertical panels..Some homeowners choose metal to set their home apart as it can provide a contemporary look, add depth or be an eye-catching accent through mixing and matching materials, such as dormers. While it may surprise some, metal can actually complement just about every home style. It can also be used to achieve a modern farmhouse look.
Other Considerations
If you belong to a neighborhood homeowners association, make sure to secure the HOA’s approval before installing your roof of choice. If green building is important to you, both roofing options are making positive strides in that department. Metal roofs are considered the more eco-friendly choice because they are mostly made from recycled materials, and are 100% recyclable at the end of their life as a roof. And new recycling programs are emerging for asphalt shingles, diverting them from the landfill to be reused in pavement for roads.
As you research roofing options, talk to your insurance agent about potential premium discounts, and ask your contractor about warranties and possible financing (if needed). And if you’re looking for a contractor, be sure to read 9 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Siding and Roofing Contractor.
B&B Siding and Roofing is proud to be experienced with both asphalt and metal roofing. We’re here to listen to your needs and provide you with easy-to-understand solutions.