If you are looking to replace your roof but still have some lingering questions or concerns, our experts at Advantage Roofing have stacked these two popular roofing materials up against each other to help you choose the best material for your roofing needs and budget.
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Cost
Let’s get down to cost. Metal roofing materials and labor are more expensive than asphalt roofing, so you will be paying more upfront. However, many benefits come along with that initial extra cost:
Metal Roofing Pros:
Longevity – metal roofing is very durable and typically lasts 40-70 years compared to the more traditional asphalt roof, which lasts only 20-30 years until it needs replacement. Choosing a metal roof is significant in savings long-term.
Metal roofing requires little to no maintenance, whereas an asphalt shingle roof requires regularly scheduled maintenance and possible shingle replacement. With age, shingle roofs are more susceptible to algae or moss. Cracks can also form on shingles when exposed to cold temperatures, reducing a roof’s lifespan.
Asphalt Shingles Pros:
An asphalt shingle roof is still a popular choice with homeowners, as they are more affordable and available in several colors and textures to accommodate any style of home – this is a great option if you are on a budget. However, an asphalt shingle roof does have a shorter lifespan – about 20-30 years.
Professionals can install shingles within a couple of days and maintenance or shingle replacement is relatively easy – unlike metal roofing which is a more complex installation process.
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Hot Climates
Metal can be highly reflective – it reflects heat away from the home and absorbs heat stored in your attic– cooling down a home significantly during hot climates. This results in significant energy savings — a metal roof can reduce your mechanical cooling use by 10-25 percent.
On the flip side, an asphalt shingle roof does not store heat as well and absorbs more heat into your home, increasing its overall temperature. In hot climates, an asphalt shingle roof may weaken over time from sun exposure — decreasing its effectiveness against sun, rain, wind, and other environmental forces.
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Cold Climates
Metal roofing materials stand up very well in harsh winter climates. Snow and ice should slide off a metal roof quite easily, preventing ice dam formation. Not only does metal insulate a structure well, but it also efficiently transfers heat to cooler objects in the home by absorbing heat from warmer items. Metal material stores heat from the sun very efficiently, warming up your home when the temperature drops at night.
Asphalt shingles also perform well in winter climates. However, this material is more susceptible to hail, high wind damage & ice damming. Also, if this type of roof does not get adequate sunlight, it may accumulate moss or algae, costing more in repairs over time. Asphalt shingles are great at keeping in heat during cold days but one of the worst types of roofing for keeping cool during hot weather.
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Energy Efficiency
Metal roofing materials are one of the most energy-efficient options available. It can 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. Metal roofing is also the most environmentally-friendly and more sustainable option, as they are commonly made from recycled material and can be recycled again and again.
Although asphalt shingles are still the most commonly used roofing material due to the lower cost and ease of installation, it scores much lower for energy efficiency. This type of roof is great at absorbing heat into the attic and then into the home, but poor at reflecting heat, even when you choose a lighter colour. The harder your AC has to work to cool down your house, the more energy you are going to waste.
Metal Roof vs Asphalt Shingles: Resale Value
Of all the roofing materials available for residential homes, metal provides the greatest return on your investment. A metal roof can also be a significant selling point for home-buyers because of the perks mentioned above and the low maintenance requirements. A residential metal roof typically has a 6% resale value over homes with asphalt roofing.
An asphalt shingle roof can look worn within 20 years. Having a worn-out-looking roof can reduce the curb appeal of your home, and lower its overall resale value.
Bottom line: if you are looking to install a roof that is superior in energy efficiency, durability, longevity, and plan on staying in your home for several years, or looking to increase the resale value of your property, choosing a metal roof is the best option over asphalt shingles. An asphalt shingle roof is still a popular option for homeowners if you require a material that comes in a variety of styles and is generally quick to install, low-maintenance, reliable, easy to repair, and budget-friendly.
You Can Rely on Advantage Roofing for Your Roofing Needs
If you are still unsure which roofing material to choose, Advantage Roofing offers a variety of solutions. We understand how much your home means to you — that is why we only use the best quality materials for every one of our customers. Contact one of our professional and experienced experts by calling us or emailing advan_roofing@live.ca today.