November
Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof
If you’re thinking of putting on a new roof, your first thought will likely center around which material you should choose. The two main choices are asphalt shingles and metal, but you’ll find that asphalt is more popular. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so do your homework before you settle on one or the other.
Talk to a trusted roofer in Burlington NC Cto get advice if you’re still unclear as to which option is really best for you.
Pros, Cons and Characteristics of Metal Roofing
Metal roofing, a more complex option than asphalt shingles, requires specific techniques, experienced installers, and more components to ensure a successful installation. Metal roofing is a wonderful option for North Carolina homeowners, as it resists extreme weather conditions in this climate, making it last longer than asphalt shingles. In fact, it can last up to 50 years longer when well maintained.
Pros of Metal Roofing
- Energy Efficiency – Metal roofing is considered to be cool roofing, as it absorbs heat when at higher temperatures while keeping in heat in cooler temperatures.
- Lightweight – As such, installers have an easier time of handling and transporting it during the installation process. It also won’t cause unnecessary stress on your home, which slashes the potential for frame damage.
- Fire Resistance – Metal roofing happens to be both Class A fire-rated and non-combustible.
- Longevity – Metal roofing can last 50+ years when properly maintained, with copper and zinc lasting 100 years or more.
- Lower Long-Term Cost – Yes, metal roofing may be more expensive initially to put in, but it can outlast at least three asphalt shingle roofs.
- Environmentally Friendly – Metal happens to be recyclable.
- Weather Performance – Metal, the strongest and most durable material, is able to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as driving rain, strong wind, hail, heat, ice, snow, and cold.
- Increased Property Value – Your property value increases more with metal roofing.
- Color Availability – Metal comes in a diverse range of colors.
- Low Maintenance – Metal roofs only need minimal maintenance.
Cons of Metal Roofing
- Appearance – Metal may have a more industrial look than residential.
- Higher Initial Cost – It costs more initially to install metal roofing than shingles, with higher material and labor costs.
- Limited Qualified Contractors – It’s not as easy to find a contractor qualified and experienced in metal roof installation as it is for a shingle installer.
- More Labor Intensive – Metal roofing needs more precise installation than shingles, so it’s important to find a trained craftsperson. Installation will take more time.
Pros, Cons and Characteristics: Shingle Roofing
Shingle roofs are the most common in the United States due to their affordability and material availability.
Pros Shingle Roofing
- More Qualified Installers – It’s easier to located a qualified shingle roof installation contractor near you.
- Easy Installation and Replacement – Shingles are less labor and time intensive, which leads to a quicker and easier job.
- Less Expensive Repairs – If you’re in need of a repair or replacement at any point, shingles are cheaper and easier to fix.
- Economical Over Short Term – Upfront, shingle roofs are cheaper than metal roofs yet don’t last as long as metal (20 years as opposed to 50+).
Cons of Shingle Roofing
- Short Lifecycle – Most shingle roofs last just 20 to 25 years.
- Holds Heat – Asphalt attracts heat because of the dark colors that tend to absorb warmth, leading your HVCAC system to work overtime to maintain comfortable indoor temps.
- Flaking Granules – The granules on shingles will shed and accumulate over time in your gutters. Not only does this clog your gutters, it leads to a reduced effectiveness of the shingle.
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- Heavier – Asphalt shingles are heavier than metal, contributing to the stress on the structure of your home. Color Limitations
– Metal has a more extensive color selection than asphalt. - Fire Concerns – Shingles may be Class A fire-rated, but they do contain asphalt. The granules make shingles fire-resistant as far as the surface goes, but a shingle roof could still catch fire if it comes into contact with a flame.
Contact Redeem Roofing
Whether you decide to go with asphalt shingle roof or metal roofing, contact us today for a free quote and consultation. Our Burlington NC roofers are standing by to assist you.
Redeem Roofing did a fantastic job installing our new roof. We love the Certainteed Landmark Pro shingle. The crew did a great job with cleanup, we are very happy with the work. - Synnei T.
- Category: Roofing