Metal Roof vs Shingles Roof in Winter – Which Should I Choose?

It might be time for a roof replacement if you’ve lived in your house for a long time or if you’re a new homeowner looking for improvements. You want to make sure that the materials you select are the best fit for you when you make such a big investment.

Although metal roofing has become more popular over the past few decades, asphalt shingles are still typically the most popular residential roofing material. Which material is best for you, then?

Let’s examine the advantages of metal roofs vs. shingles.

Advantages of Metal Roofing

1. Lightweight – The fact that metal roofing is a highly lightweight material is one of its main advantages. First off, throughout the roll forming and installation procedure, it’s simpler for the installers to handle and transport up on the roof. Second, it doesn’t weigh down or place undue strain on a structure, which minimizes frame damage and maintains a building’s integrity.
2. Longevity – The lifespan of metal roofing is possibly one of the largest distinctions between it and shingles. Metal roofing is anticipated to endure at least 50 years before indications of deterioration start to appear. In certain cases, other metals like copper and zinc have even been found to endure 100 years or longer.
3. Lower Long-Term Cost – Metal roofing is more expensive as a one-time expense. Because metal roofs may easily outlast at least three asphalt shingle roofs (one can survive for more than 60 years), metal roofing is often less expensive in the long run (one lasts 15-20 years).

Advantages of Shingle Roofing

1. Economical in the Short Term – As previously said, shingles are less expensive than metal roofing in the long run, typically costing less than half as much. This is why many homeowners prefer them. The great majority of shingle installations are explained by this single fact. Please refer to the cost comparison above for reference.
2. Easier to Install & Replace – Installation and replacement of shingles take less time and effort. Shingles are bundled and prepared to be nailed on the deck right away (unless cuts are required). When installing metal roofing, you will need to handle finished panels that may be heavy, fasten the metal panels to the decking with screws rather than nails, join the panels, and then install the flashing.
3. Less Expensive Repairs – Along with being simple to install and replace, shingles are also simpler and less expensive to repair should a problem arise. Most shingles can be fixed with fewer materials by removing them one at a time close to the problem. Because the full-length panels are all joined together and more challenging to replace one at a time, metal roofing is more complicated.

What Material Is Right for Your Roof?

As is evident, selecting a new roofing material necessitates extensive investigation beyond simple pricing comparison. Asphalt shingles are a tried-and-true option for millions of homeowners trying to save as much money upfront as possible.

However, you can think about getting a metal roof if you value durability, improved curb appeal, and environmental sustainability. (Or choices like slate or solar tiles!)

We sell the sheets and coils used to create metal roofing panels at Seacoast Roofing & Exteriors. At the same time, we also care about assisting you in selecting the roofing product that is best for you and your requirements.

Call us at 603-405-8884 to speak with one of our knowledgeable roofing consultants if you have any concerns or would like more information about choosing a roof type.