Roof Repair | Asphalt vs Metal – Pros and Cons
Are you trying to decide between an asphalt shingle roof or a metal roof for your home? It can be a complex decision with colossal implications for the future of your home. Both asphalt shingles and metal roofs are great options – but deciding on the best material for you is the most important thing. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs in this blog to help you make the best decision for your family.
Asphalt shingles are a popular and classic choice for many homeowners in the US. They are affordable and easy to install as compared to metal roofs. Asphalt shingles also provide you with sound insulation and protection against the elements, and they come in an array of colors and styles that can be customized to match the outside paint or siding of your house. On the downside, they don’t last as long as metal roofs, and they can be prone to discoloration, cracking, and no protection against hail.
Metal roofs are undoubtedly more resilient than asphalt shingles and can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. They are also energy-efficient and low-maintenance, as well as being capable of handling extreme weather conditions like heavy snow and strong winds. But, metal roofs can be significantly more expensive than asphalt shingles, and some homeowners don’t love the shiny, modern appeal it can give a traditional home.
Now that you know the pros and cons of both asphalt shingles and metal roofs, it’s easier for you to make the best decision for your home. Let’s dive deeper into exactly why you should choose one over the other.
Quick Summary
Asphalt shingle roofs are an affordable roofing option and generally easy to install but they have a shorter lifespan than metal roofs. On the other hand, metal roofs tend to be more expensive but last longer, offer greater fire resistance, and require less maintenance.
Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt Shingle Roofs offer cost-effective roofing solutions for many homeowners. They can be easily and quickly installed in most climates, with a typical installation time of about one day; the cost is also significantly lower than other roofing materials. This makes asphalt shingle roofs an attractive option for those who want to save money on their roofing project.
On the other hand, they are vulnerable to wind damage and tend to fade over time. Asphalt shingles typically last only 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced, while they may be cheaper upfront, they will require more maintenance during their operational life and may need replacing long before metal roofs would need to be replaced. Additionally, lighter colors can become extremely hot in sunny climates and are not as effective at reflecting heat compared to metal roofs.
The good news is that asphalt shingle roofs come with various warranties that protect against manufacturing defects and premature wear-and-tear. However, the warranty will likely not cover weather damage or normal wear-and-tear from exposure to the elements throughout its lifetime, which should be taken into consideration when weighing the pros and cons of this type of roof.
Leading into the next section of this article is a discussion of material durability—particularly how asphalt shingle roofs compare in durability to metal roofs.
- According to the National Association of Homebuilders, asphalt shingles are generally more cost-effective than metal roofing materials.
- Asphalt shingles typically last between 15 and 30 years, while metal roofing can last up to 50 years or more.
- Metal roofing typically has a higher resistance to wind damage, making it the most suitable choice for homes located in windy areas.
Top Highlights
Asphalt shingle roofs are a cost-effective and quick to install roofing solution for homeowners. They offer a low upfront cost, but may require more maintenance over their 10-15 year life. Asphalt shingle roofs are vulnerable to wind damage and fading, and when exposed to sunny climates the lighter colors may become extremely hot. Warranties can provide some protection against manufacturing defects and premature wear-and-tear, but won’t cover weather damage or normal wear-and-tear from exposure. The following section will discuss the material durability of asphalt shingle roofs compared to melonger thantal roof options.
Material Durability
Material durability is one of the most important factors to consider when debating asphalt shingle roofs vs metal roofs. Asphalt shingle roofs require more maintenance and are typically not as durable as their metal counterparts, but they may be a more economically sensible option in certain circumstances.
The standard asphalt shingle roof usually lasts anywhere from 15 to 20 years, while some of the higher quality material lasts up to 30 years. However, a high quality metal roof can last anywhere from 40-70 years with minimal maintenance required. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a long-term solution.
Metal roofs are more prone to corrosion due to external environmental conditions, so they must be treated with a corrosion resistant coating or protected with insulation to protect against rust and other forms of damage from moisture exposure. Additionally, extreme weather conditions such as hail storms Or winds can damage metal roofs more easily than asphalt ones.
Asphalt shingles can be more prone to leakages due to their physical form and exposed nails at the edges of the sheet – however, careful installation skills and proper capping/flashing can make them water resistant as well. Meanwhile, metal sheets are joined together using clips instead of exposure nails which increases waterproofing capabilities dramatically due to reduced punctures on the spot welded locations.
On overall, when you do find yourself deciding between asphalt shingle and metal roofing – remember that material durability should factor heavily into your decision making process. It’s important to weigh out the pros and cons of each option before making an investment in either one. Moving forward, let us now take a look at the cost of installation associated with each type of roofing material.
Cost of Installation
The cost of installing a new roof plays an important role in any homeowner’s decision-making process. Asphalt shingles and metal roofs both offer varying benefits, and the right choice for a particular home will depend upon budget, lifespan expectations, and aesthetic preferences.
Asphalt shingle roofs are typically the most economical option for residential homes. The low cost of materials combined with easy installation results in a low upfront cost for homeowners. Depending on the size of the roof and local rates for labor, asphalt shingles can be installed for as little as $3 profit per square foot or as much as $15 profit per square foot.
On the other hand, metal roofs can require considerably more time to install due to their increased complexity; therefore, the price of installation will be higher than that of asphalt shingles. However, many experts believe that metal roofs may actually save homeowners money in long term costs due to their longer lifespans and improved energy efficiency. When all such factors are taken into consideration, it is estimated that a standard 2000 sq ft. metal roof installation could cost between $7 and $20 profit per square foot— far more than an asphalt shingle installation but potentially proving to be an investment due to lower long term maintenance costs.
Overall, depending on individual tastes, asphalt shingle roofs may offer greater savings on installation costs while metal roofs may provide better returns on investment over time. In either case, taking a detailed look at both options can help homeowners make informed decisions concerning which route is best for them and their families.
Having discussed the relative costs associated with the installation of both asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs, it is now time to turn our attention to metal roofs themselves: their advantages and drawbacks compared to asphalt shingles and how they might best fit into specific home construction plans.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are becoming more popular as homeowners realize the long-term savings and sustainability that they can provide. Metal roofing materials are generally made of recycled material, making them much better for the environment than most asphalt shingles. In addition, many metal roofing systems come with a lifetime warranty, thus eliminating the need to replace it every 10 to 15 years like asphalt shingles.
The cons associated with metal roofs stem from their initial cost. Though installation costs can be expensive, money is saved in the long run if such a roof lasts for decades. As mentioned before, metal roofs can become noisy when it rains or hails, but this nuisance is minimized with good installation practices and proper insulation. Some people also don’t like the look of metal roofs, but advancements in design have incorporated simulated shakes and shingles that blend nicely with other homes in a neighborhood.
All-in-all, while metal roofs come with a higher cost up front they save money in the long run and provide greater sustainability than asphalt shingle roofs. The next section will discuss how energy efficiency plays into this debate by weighing the pros and cons of both materials.
Energy Efficient
When it comes to energy efficient roofs, both asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs have their advantages. In general, both types of roofs help reduce energy costs by increasing insulation for your home and protecting against the elements.
Asphalt shingles provide more flexibility in comparison to metal roofs, allowing your home to breathe during the hot summer months. Many asphalt shingle roofs come with a “cool roof” feature that reflects light away from the surface of the roof, thus reducing cooling costs associated with heat absorption. Asphalt shingles can also be applied over existing roofs without removing or disposing of existing materials, which results in less carbon being released into the environment.
On the other hand, metal roofs often come with increased insulation value when compared to asphalt shingles. Metal is an excellent reflector of solar radiation, meaning less heat will get absorbed, thus reducing electricity and cooling bills associated with air conditioning. Additionally, steel roof panels are typically treated with a protective coating that can further reduce your energy costs by reflecting sunlight away from your roof.
Due to their differing characteristics, selecting one roof to be deemed more “energy-efficient” than the other largely depends on the climate you live in and your home’s specific needs. Depending on where you live, one may be more beneficial for your home than the others in terms of energy efficiency.
Now let’s take a look at cost comparisons between aluminum shingle roofs and metal roofs as an important part of making an informed decision about which type of roof is right for you.
Cost Comparison
When evaluating the cost of asphalt shingle roofs versus metal roofs, several aspects need to be taken into account. The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is 15-30 years while a metal roof can last up to 50 years. The initial purchase cost of asphalt shingles is higher than metal, but the upfront costs are lower when installation is factored in. Asphalt shingles require more labor for installation and additional materials, such as flashing and underlayment, which could add to the overall cost of installation. In general, metal roofs cost more to install than asphalt shingle roofs due to specialized tools needed for installation and additional ventilation requirements.
On the other hand, the long-term savings associated with metal roofs often outweigh their upfront costs. While maintenance costs remain low over time with both types of roofs, metal roofs typically require less maintenance than asphalt shingles in terms of cleaning and repairs. Also, metal roofs boast greater energy efficiency due to their reflective properties, meaning that energy bills can be significantly lower over time. This can offset some initial installation costs in addition to providing environmental benefits. However, with either type of roofing system, it’s important to consider local weather conditions and climate when making your decision as each type of roof may come with different pros and cons depending on your region.
Overall, when evaluating the costs associated with asphalt shingle roofs vs metal roofs, it is important to consider long-term savings rather than just initial purchase price. It is also important to factor in labor and installation costs as well as local weather conditions when making your decision. With this information in mind, let’s take a look at the maintenance requirements associated with each type of roof system.
Maintenance Requirements
When it comes to the upkeep of a roof, asphalt shingle roofs are much easier and cheaper to maintain than metal roofs. Asphalt shingles are easy to repair, which makes them ideal for homeowners that don’t want the time or cost associated with a complete roof replacement. Depending on the condition of shingles, patches and new shingles can be replaced as needed without a full tear-off of the existing roof.
On the other hand, metal roofs require more maintenance, but they do come with built-in corrosion protection. They need to be inspected every 6 to 12 months by a qualified professional, and over time they can start to rust and require painting and steel restoration treatments. Despite regular coating, there is still wear and tear that may need repair, regardless of how well it is taken care of.
All in all, although metal roofs are more expensive to purchase and install up front, their durability reduces their long-term maintenance costs in comparison to an asphalt shingle roof. However, asphalt shingle roofs are easier to repair and maintain due to their replaceable nature when needed.
Now that we have discussed maintenance requirements for both asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs, let’s move on to discuss Strength and Warranty in the next section.
Strength and Warranty
When weighing an asphalt shingle roof versus a metal roof, the strength and warranty of those respective materials is an important factor to consider. Asphalt shingles are thicker than most metal roofs, which can offer greater protection for the underlying structure of your home. Additionally, asphalt shingles generally have longer warranties than metal roofs, commonly lasting up to 30 years with some higher quality shingles offering up to 50 year warranties. However, a well-maintained metal roof has a longer lifespan, typically outlasting its warranty by several decades. It also tends to be more durable and can withstand impacts better than traditional asphalt shingles. Due to their lightweight construction, metal roofs don’t put as much stress on the underlying support structure when compared with asphalt shingles.
The relative strength and warranties offered between an asphalt shingle roof and a metal roof are important considerations when deciding which option is best for your house. Either choice will keep your house protected from the elements, although they may require different maintenance requirements and levels of protection throughout their lifespan. While the longevity of metal roofs outweighs that of asphalt shingles in many cases, it is important to note that either type of roof can provide a reliable level of protection for years at a time with proper care. Moving forward, it’s important to consider how effective each type of material is in different climates in order to come to an informed conclusion about which material would serve you best.
Effectiveness in Different Climates
When it comes to effectiveness in different climates, asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs have both advantages and disadvantages. Asphalt shingles are a great choice for mild climates, as they can be less expensive while providing long-term protection against the weather. In moderate temperatures, they last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. However, in hotter climates, the asphalt can wear out and degrade more quickly due to the sun’s heat, resulting in increased costs for frequent repairs or early replacement of the roof.
Metal roofs, on the other hand, are more durable when exposed to intense heat due to their reflective nature; meaning that they can better reflect sunlight away from the home and keep it cooler. Plus, metal roofs come with galvanic coating that prevents rusting and corrosion as well as manufacturer warranties up to 50 years for further security. Such features may come with higher upfront costs than asphalt shingles but also offer greater longevity down the line.
In colder climates, metallic coatings provide increased protection against power outages or snowstorms than asphalt shingle roofs. But because metal absorbs less energy in cold temperatures, both stone-coated steel roofs and aluminum roofs require additional insulation in order to improve energy efficiency during winter months.
In conclusion, asphalt shingles are an effective solution for milder climates while metal roofs offer great protection from intense heat and snowstorms in many areas of the world; each with its own pros and cons depending on climate regions or homeowners’ preferences. Now let’s move on to discussing another important consideration – fire and hailstone resistant properties of asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofing systems.
Fire and Hailstone Resistant
When looking for roof protection, fire-resistance and protection from hailstone are both important considerations. In terms of fire-resistance, asphalt shingle roofs provide a lower level of protection due to the flammable materials used in construction. On the other hand, metal roofs offer a much higher level of fire resistance due to the non-combustible nature of the material. Asphalt shingle roofs can be treated with flame-retardant materials, but this is still no match for the fire resistance capabilities that a metal roof offers against intense heat or open flames.
In terms of hailstone protection, asphalt shingles usually provide better protection compared to metal roofs. Asphalt shingles have a thicker material that can withstand large hailstones without breaking or cracking. Although metal roofs are much more durable than asphalt shingle roofs and can withstand most weather conditions, they are not intended to absorb impacts from hailstones and may become damaged from heavy hail storms.
Overall, when it comes to fire-resistance and protection from hailstone, each option has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account when deciding what type of roof to install on a home or building.
Finally, in the next section, we will take an in-depth look at all the pros and cons associated with asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs and make a final conclusion and comparison to help homeowners decide which type of roof best suits their needs.
Final Conclusion and Comparison
For many homeowners, choosing a new roof can be a difficult decision. When looking to replace their current roof, there are two main contenders: asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs. Both types of roofs have advantages and drawbacks that should be weighed and considered before making a final decision.
Asphalt shingle roofs require little installation time, as well as low cost materials, making them an attractive choice for homeowners on a budget. Additionally, they come in a many different of colors and textures, making it easy to find the best look for a house. On the other hand, asphalt shingle roofs do not last as long and do not provide the same level of heat reflection as metal roofs do.
Metal roofs cost more initially than asphalt roofs but may save money over time due to their longer life expectancy and better protection against fire, hail, high winds, ultraviolet rays, and insect damage. Metal roofing is also less susceptible to damage from ice dams which can cause water to back up under the roof decking. However, metal roof systems are noisier during rain or hail storms than traditional asphalt shingle roofs (especially when installed without a proper underlayment), they tend to be more expensive and usually require professional installation.
Ultimately, it is up to homeowners to decide which style best fits their needs, budget and aesthetic preferences. Those who favor affordability will probably opt for the asphalt shingle roof while those who prioritize longevity may choose metal roofing instead.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions with Detailed Explanations
What types of climates or weather conditions are better suited for asphalt shingle roofs over metal roofs?
Asphalt shingle roofs are generally better suited for climates with consistently moderate temperatures and occasional wet or dry spells, as opposed to climates that experience extremely cold or hot temperatures. Asphalt shingles remain flexible in mild temperatures, so they can easily bend and shift to resist heat expansion and contraction. In addition, asphalt shingles are also better resistant to moisture damage than metal roofs and don’t need special coatings to withstand water or snow pressure. Asphalt shingles also offer a greater degree of insulation in cooler climates than metal roofs—which can absorb more heat—so they’re better suited to maintain consistent interior temperatures during the winter months.
Are there any differences in the cost of installation between asphalt shingle and metal roofs?
Yes, there are notable differences in the cost of installation between asphalt shingle and metal roofs. Generally, asphalt shingle roofs are less expensive to install than metal roofs due to their lower material costs. Asphalt shingles also require less labor to install as they can usually be cut and laid in one piece.
In contrast, metal roofs require more specialized equipment and knowledge for installation. The panels need to be customized to fit onto the house, which adds to the cost of installation. Additionally, metal roofs tend to have a higher long-term cost due to their lifespan—lasting up to six times longer than asphalt shingled roofs—meaning that you may need to replace an asphalt shingle roof more often over the years.
How do asphalt shingle roofs compare to metal roofs in terms of longevity?
Asphalt shingle roofs tend to have a shorter life expectancy than metal roofs since they deteriorate more quickly due to exposure to extreme temperatures, snow, ice, and UV rays. Asphalt shingles typically last between 15-30 years while metal roofing can easily last 50 years or longer depending on the type of metal and how well it is maintained. Furthermore, while asphalt shingles are more economical upfront cost-wise, they may require more frequent repairs over their lifetime which can add up to equal or exceed the cost of a metal roof in the long run. All these factors taken into consideration make metal roofs the clear choice when it comes to longevity.
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