Choosing Your Roofing Material: Shingles or Metal?

Asphalt shingles may be the most popular roofing material in the United States, but have you ever considered a metal roof? While asphalt shingles are excellent if you’re on a budget, metal roofs last longer and have many benefits.

Why Choose a Metal Roof?

Consider these 10 reasons why metal roofs are better investments than asphalt shingle roofs:

1. Homeowners recognize metal roofs as one of the most sustainable roofing options available. While many traditional roofing materials end up in the landfill, metal roofs are 100% recyclable. They also create less waste over time.

2. Getting a metal roof is a wise choice if you live in an area that’s exposed to extreme wind and storms. It can withstand gusts over 140mph, which is equivalent to a hurricane or F2 tornado wind.

3. Most metal roofs have a Class A fire rating, the highest level. The metal is noncombustible and can’t ignite when exposed to flame or extreme heat.

4. Metal roofs have strong impact resistance, like from hail or debris. Asphalt shingles have weaker impact resistance.

5. They’re crafted from high-quality materials, like steel, aluminum, or copper. Unlike asphalt shingle roofs, they resist rust, corrosion, and fading.

6. They protect your home against harsh weather year-round.

7. They come in a wider range of styles, colors, and finishes than asphalt roofs do.

8. Metal roofs weigh only half as much as asphalt shingle roofs, which is great for older or structurally vulnerable buildings.

9. They maximize curb appeal.

10. Roofers can install them quickly and efficiently, which can save you money on labor costs and cause less disruption.

Metal Roof Life Expectancy

Metal roofs are long-term investments. Many last for 60 years with minimal maintenance. Their lifespan is 40-80 years or more.

Unlike asphalt shingle roofs, which last for 15-35 years and need frequent repairs or replacements, metal roofs have:

• fewer replacements

• fewer lifespan-related costs

• the ability to give you peace of mind for a longer period of time

Is a Metal Roof Considered Energy-Efficient?

Metal roofs are highly energy efficient. They reflect solar radiation and improve the home’s overall thermal performance. With a metal roof, you may save up to 40% on energy. 

In warm climates, a pre-painted roof reflects and re-emits much of the solar energy, keeping your home cool. In cold climates, an unpainted roof absorbs more heat and improves energy efficiency in Winter.

Do Insurance Companies Prefer Metal or Shingle Roofs?

Insurance companies usually prefer metal roofs over asphalt shingle roofs because asphalt shingles deteriorate more easily. Also, a metal roof’s long lifespan, durability, and fire resistance appeal to insurers. In fact, a new metal roof may result in a cheaper homeowner’s policy.

8 Reasons Why Asphalt Shingle Roofs Are So Popular in America

80% of American homes have asphalt shingle roofs. If you need a more affordable option than a metal roof, go for asphalt shingles! Let’s dive into their benefits:

1. Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material.

2. Specially made shingles can resist hailstorms.

3. Some shingles feature a Class A fire rating.

4. Asphalt shingles can insulate sound. A storm would sound the quietest with an asphalt shingle roof.

5. You can get shingles that are specially made to resist algae.

6. Because they’re so easy to install, asphalt shingles have a low installation price.

7. Asphalt shingle roofs are the easiest kind of roof to repair. So, qualified roofers are more accessible.

8. Many people don’t know this, but asphalt shingles are now recyclable.

Versatility

According to IKO, asphalt shingles “cover many different angles, shapes, and forms.” They work with almost any roof type.

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of architectural styles. In fact, some shingles mimic other roofing materials, like cedar shakes and slate. 3-tab, dimensional, and premium tiles come in multiple designs.

Plus, asphalt shingles come in plenty of colors.

Asphalt Shingle Impact on Energy Efficiency

When you purchase an asphalt shingle roof, the roofer installs a complete roofing system, including underlayment that improves energy efficiency. You can also choose specially made light, medium, or dark-toned shingles that reflect more infrared radiation, reducing the roof’s surface temperature.

Keep in mind that asphalt shingle options can vary significantly. When you request a roofing quote from Town Corners Exteriors, we walk you through your options for durability, quality, and resistance to weather. Whichever option you select, you can rely on our dependable materials and expert craftsmanship. We use premium asphalt shingles (choose from CertainTeed - Landmark, Pro, and NorthGate with Integrity shingles).

So, whether you’re building a home or replacing your roof, call Town Corners Exteriors at 616-772-9700 or fill out our contact form for a quote. We service the West Michigan Lakeshore to Grand Rapids.

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