Do you go with the long-running and reliable shingles or do you choose durable metal roofing?
Both have their pros and cons, but it is all about what is right for you and your needs.
Finishing Options
If you are looking for a certain style to fit your aesthetic, both roofing varieties have finish options. Shingle roofing tends to have a traditional look, though they can now be made to look like slate, tile, and wood.
You can even get them designed with fancy edges. With shingles, there is also a large variety of color options.
Back when metal roofing first came about, it looked like sheets of metal such as those found on barn roofs. Now, with different materials, your metal roofing comes in different colors and styles.
Durability
In terms of durability, both types of roofing are durable, but metal tends to last through harsher weather and challenges.
Metal can stand up to almost any type of weather, whether it be scorching heat or raining fury. They tend to have a 30-50-year warranty and can last up to 70 years. However, your metal roof can get dents from intense hail or stuff falling on it.
Shingles don’t last as long, having a warranty of 15-30 years, because damp conditions cause algae and fungus to grow.
Also, ice can create cracks in the surface and the shingles themselves don’t hold up well against harsh weather conditions.
Financial Aspect
Though metal roofing lasts much longer, shingle roofing is more cost-effective.
Metal roofing can cost from $120 to $900 per square foot. On the other hand, shingles only cost from $100 to $200 per square foot.
It would be a compromise either way. Either you invest more in metal roofing and get more life out of it or save money on shingles with the risk of replacement.
Eco-Friendliness
If you are basing your decision on which type of roofing is eco-friendlier, metal roofing wins this battle.
Because metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and is easily recycled again, it is the much more sustainable option.
Metal roofing is also more energy efficient because it blocks heat from entering the home.
Shingles, however, are a big contributor to the United States’ landfills, making up around 20 billion pounds annually. They are also made of petroleum which relies on fossil fuels.
Installation
If you are looking for easy installation, shingles are the way to go. With the help of professionals, shingles can be installed within a day or two.
Metal roofing, however, requires a handyman specializing in metal roofing and is a much more precise job.
Conclusion
In the end, choose the roofing that best suits your needs. Whether you focus more on eco-friendly options, durability, or anything else, go with what you feel you need and want.
There are positives and negatives for each type, so it is all dependent on your specific desires.