If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’ve likely come across these two popular types: asphalt shingles and metal. Which one is the better option for you? Below, we weigh the pros and cons of the two types of roofs to give you a great starting point in your search.
Lifespan
Winner: Metal
Metal is the clear winner here! The typical lifespan for a metal roof is 40-50 years. Some metals, like zinc and copper, can last 100 years or more! Typical asphalt shingle roofs, on the other hand, only last 20–30 years at most.
Durability
Winner: Metal
Metal roofs can last for many decades without showing signs of wear. They’re also highly resistant to extreme weather, including hail, wind-driven rain, snow and ice. They can withstand winds up to 120 mph due to the interlocking pattern of the panels. Shingles will more easily blow off of a roof, leaving spots vulnerable to moisture penetration. That said, they are many higher quality, heavy asphalt shingles that can carry a high wind rating.
Initial Cost
Winner: Shingle
The cost of a shingle roof can be much less up front than a metal roof. Long term, however, a metal roof pulls ahead and could save you a lot of money. You could end up having to replace your shingle roof three times over the lifespan of a single metal roof. Metal is also more durable (requiring fewer repairs) and lower maintenance.
Fire Resistance
Winner: Metal
If you live in a dry region that’s prone to wildfires, you’d be better off with a metal roof. However, many asphalt shingles carry a Class A Fire Rating.
Maintenance
Winner: Metal
If your metal roof is installed properly, it should require virtually no maintenance. Simply check your roof and gutters for debris a couple times a year. Asphalt roofs require regular seasonal inspections, repairs, maintenance and sometimes shingle replacement.
Repair Cost
Winner: Shingle
Shingles are easier to repair than metal panels. A roofer can replace a single or fix an area with relative ease. Fixing a problem spot or replacing a panel in a metal roof is more difficult due to the way it’s installed and how the panels are connected.
Design Options
Winner: Both
You will have a large variety of color, style, and design options for both metal and shingle roofs.
Ease of Installation
Winner: Shingle
Because a shingle roof requires less labor to install than a metal roof, roofing contractors can typically install them more quickly. Metal roof installation is more complicated and requires special skills.
Weight
Winner: Metal
Shingles are heavier than metal, which can place more stress on your building’s structure. Metal is lightweight, so it can help preserve your building’s integrity over time.
Rainshield Roofing & Construction installs both shingle and metal roofs. If you’re interested in metal, we recommend considering Snap-Loc Metal. If you’re leaning more towards shingles, consider the more durable Certainteed architectural shingles, which can last much longer than traditional 3-Tab shingles.
Call Rainshield Roofing for a free quote on either or both roofing systems today! 1-888-858-7663