Choosing between a metal roof vs shingles involves weighing durability, cost, and style. Metal roofs offer exceptional longevity and weather resistance, ideal for long-term investment. Shingles, while more budget-friendly and available in various styles, may require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. Your choice depends on your priorities and budget.
There are a lot of things you will need to consider when you are looking at having your roof replaced. One of the most important things you need to know is how much any given roofing material will cost you. Roofing costs are some of the biggest home renovation costs out there, so of course you will be looking to find the most price effective option.
Metal roofing and shingle roofing are two of the most popular options for new roofs right now. How did they compare price-wise, and which one should you choose for your home?
Upfront Costs
One of the first things you need to know about metal roofs versus shingles, is how much they are going to cost you up front. No matter what kind of roof you have installed, there are several costs involved in having it done. That includes the costs of the materials, as well as the cost of the expertise and labor from the team that are installing it for you.
When comparing these two materials, you will see that shingles are often much cheaper up front. Typically, asphalt shingle installation will start at around $4.68 per square foot. Metal roofing will cost $13.53 per square foot on average.
So, if you are looking for the most budget-friendly option right now, asphalt shingles will be the cheaper option.
Additionally, it is worth considering the cost of the installation itself. You may consider installing your own reef to save money, especially with an asphalt shingle roof as there are plenty of guides online as to how to do it. However, having your roof installed by a professional, no matter which material you choose, is crucial. Not only is it much safer to have a professional handle the installation, but they will be able to install its properly, leading to less potential for issues with your roof down on the line.
Replacement Costs
Something else that is vital for you to consider when you are considering which roofing is right for you, is the lifespan of it. Each roofing material has a different lifespan, after which it will be more cost-effective to replace, rather than keep repairing.
Typically, asphalt roofing shingles will last up to 30 years with the right care. After this, they will need to be fully replaced in order to properly protect your roof. In comparison, a metal roof will last for up to 70 years with the rights care, with some metal roofs being able to last even 100 years.
While the asphalt shingle roof will be cheaper to have installed at first, you will need to replace it much sooner than you would with a metal roof. You should be considering the ongoing costs with a roof when you are planning which roofing material to choose. If you have the option to do so, picking a metal roof for a longer lifespan is always a good idea.
Maintenance Costs
Again, there are other costs that are involved with having your roof replaced. So over time, the elements will do their best to damage your roof, so you want a roofing material that is able to resist them as much as possible. If you want to keep down the maintenance costs as much as you can, which is going to be the right one for you?
Asphalt shingles do need more care, as even one missing or broken shingle will easily lead to leaks and other issues in your roof if you do not spot it in time. However, if you do spot issues quickly, it is fairly simple to replace a few missing or broken shingles and restore the integrity of your roof.
Metal roofing is known for being very hard wearing, being able to take everything at the elements throw at it. This is especially thanks to the way it is installed. The metal will be installed in large sheets, which typically lock together at the seams to create a water tight seal. This creates less potential entry points for water, leading to less potential repair costs over time.
Other Considerations
Of course costs are always important to consider if you are thinking of having your roof replaced, but it isn’t everything that you need to have in mind. There are other considerations you need to make when you are picking between an asphalt shingle roof and a metal roof.
Roofing styles: One of the most important things to consider when looking for a new roof is the style of it. Not only do you want a roof that improves your home’s curb appeal, but you also want it to blend in with similar homes in your area.
With asphalt shingles being very popular across many areas, you could have an asphalt shingle roof installed to easily improve the overall look of your home. Metal roofing can be made to mimic a lot of different roofing styles, from asphalt shingles to clay tiles and more.
UV protection: Your roof is in the sun all day long, and UV rays will do a lot of damage to some roofing materials over time. Asphalt shingles will have a granular layer that protects them from the sun, but often UV rays can still damage them over time, leading to curling, cracking, and more.
If you choose a metal roof, you can have them coated with a specialized paint, which helps protect your roof from UV rays. That allows it to reflect the rays rather than absorb them, which will help you reduce energy costs when cooling your home.
Resale value: Many homeowners will look into having their roof replacement if they are hoping to sell their home. Both asphalt shingles and metal roofs will be good investments in this case, as they will both improve curb appeal, and add to the value of your home.
Metal Roof vs Shingles Conclusion
There is a lot to consider when looking into the cost of replacing your roof. Both asphalt shingles and metal roofs are great options, with metal roofing offering advantages in terms of lifespan, ease of installation, and these are maintenance.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you! Our award-winning roofing company offers various roofing services, including shingle roof installation.