Metal Roof or Shingles: Which Should You Choose?

The roof of your home protects you, your family, and your entire property from harsh weather, the sun’s rays, and many more elements. It’s very important that your roof is not only tough, but long-lasting, and resilient. That’s why installing a new, durable roof is definitely money well-spent!

According to roofing companies in Grand Prairie TX, the cost of installing a roof depends on a lot of factors, but it mostly relies on the type of material used. Two of the most common materials used for roofs today are metal sheets and asphalt shingles. Between them, asphalt shingles are used in at least 70% of American homes.

In terms of durability, metal roofs are twice as durable since they can last over 50 years. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, may go for 15 to 30 years with warranty. As far as energy efficiency is concerned, metal roofs are best for the summer months because of their robust insulation. They can keep air conditioning costs down while asphalt shingles may not perform as well.

Fire resistance is also a major concern for homeowners. There are different kinds of metal roofs including copper, steel, and aluminum. All of which are very resistant to fire, but of the three aluminum doesn’t hold up quite as well. If you want to install shingles but also want a fire-resistant roof, you have to go for fiberglass shingles because the organic types don’t do well with fire.

Noise Levels in Metal vs. Asphalt Roofing

One major factor homeowners overlook when choosing a roofing material is noise. Metal roofs tend to be noisier during heavy rain or hail compared to asphalt shingles, which naturally absorb sound. 

However, modern metal roofing systems come with insulation options and soundproofing underlayment to reduce noise levels significantly. If you live in an area that has frequent storms, you may want to consider asphalt shingles or adding an extra layer of insulation under a metal roof to help dampen the sound and suppress noise.

Storm Resistance

When it comes to extreme weather conditions, both metal and asphalt shingles have their strengths and weaknesses. Metal roofs are highly resistant to wind damage and can withstand gusts of up to 140 mph, making them best for regions that experience hurricanes or tornados. However, softer metal roofs like aluminum may dent from hail impact. 

Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are more prone to losing granules, cracking, or tearing in strong winds and storms. Some high-impact shingles are designed to resist hail better, but they still require regular maintenance and inspection after severe weather events.

Climate Considerations

Your region's climate also plays a big role in determining the best roofing material for your home. In hot climates, metal roofs reflect heat away from the home, helping reduce cooling costs and keeping the indoors comfortable. 

However, in cold climates, asphalt shingles provide better natural insulation, helping to retain warmth inside the home. Metal roofs also allow snow and ice to slide off more easily, preventing dangerous ice dams from forming, which can be a major issue in regions with heavy snowfall.

Consider the climate in your area when choosing the type of roof you go with. If you live in a climate that is warmer year round and may experience severe storms, metal roofing is likely the best option. If the weather is colder year round and isn’t as prone to severe storms, shingles are a great option.

After all the advantages have been laid out, only one question remains. Is it cheaper to install metal roofs than shingles? Fortunately, there’s a pretty simple answer to that.

Asphalt shingles are very attractive for homeowners because of their rather cheap installation costs. However, such a roof would require several repairs and replacements along the way. If you consider those additional costs, then you’ll see that the total cost isn’t too far off from metal roofs.

 With that said, metal roofs do have high initial installation costs, but there will be fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs along the way. If you choose to install metal roofs that bear the Energy Star seal, then you’re eligible for federal tax rebates. That can further reduce the cost of your roofing installation.

Also, there are different types of asphalt shingles and the average installation costs $100 per roofing square. Of course, there are other things to consider, such as the choice of underlayment. As for metal roofs, the cheapest type is the corrugated steel panels, which cost $120 per roofing square. The most expensive type of metal roof is made of copper or zinc, which can run as high as $900 per roofing square. Both are great options depending on your budget.

What Corrugated Roofing is Best?

When it comes to residential roofing, metal corrugated panels are the best overall choice because of their durability, longevity, and weather resistance. Metal roofs can last 50+ years, reflect heat for energy efficiency, and withstand harsh weather conditions. 

Ondura panels are made from asphalt and cellulose, and provide a budget-friendly alternative to metal corrugated panels with good insulation and noise reduction. Ondura corrugated panels don’t last as long as metal though. Polycarbonate panels and fiberglass panels are better options for skylights and patio covers because they allow some natural light to come through.

The type of roof to install must be the one that is aligned with your needs. Aesthetically, asphalt roofing is more attractive, especially if you’re going for high slopes. Metal, on the other hand, is perfect if you intend to construct a flat roof. There are also other factors to consider such as weight, lifespan, and finishing. All of these must be measured well to get the best type of roof for your budget. It’s also smart to make sure they go well with your rain gutters too.

The best type of roof is different for everyone. Not only does the overall look need to align with your style, but the style of your home. Your budget needs to match up with the type of roof you choose as well. Make sure to calculate both installation costs and maintenance repairs as shingles will require upkeep long before a metal roof. Also, keep in mind energy efficiency and fire resistant material. Not all roofing material is created the same, so be sure to do your research and pick the one that best fits your needs.