If you are a homeowner considering installing a new roof on your house, then undoubtedly, one of the burning questions on your mind is which material should I choose?
The true choice will depend on your needs and your budget. To help you decide, we have put together a few advantages and disadvantages of shingle and metal roofing.
Affordable
Probably the biggest reason why asphalt roofing shingles are so popular is because they are the most affordable roofing option. If properly installed, asphalt shingles will protect your home for about 12 to 17 years. Although this may be a short-term fix compared to materials like metal, the inexpensiveness of asphalt shingles often outweighs long-term protection.
Variety & Colour
Asphalt shingles have an almost endless amount of different variations and colours to match any home’s style.
Easy Installation
While it does take some skill to properly install asphalt shingles, they require less specialized training and can quickly be installed in one to two days, depending on the size of the job and if the old shingles have to be removed first.
Requires Periodic Maintenance
Some tasks are as simple as keeping the roof clean of debris, but you also will need to make sure flashing doesn’t allow water to seep through, shingles haven’t gotten loose from weather, and moss or algae haven’t accumulated. Wood shingles are worse with their insect risk, and their fire resistance (or lack thereof).
Shorter Lifespan
Unlike metal, shingles have a shorter lifespan as they are more prone to weather damage. Generally, an asphalt roof will last between 15 - 18 depending on how well they are maintained and the chosen type of install.
Strength and Life Span
Depending on the metal roof profile that is chosen, metal roofs can sustain up to over 200/KMH. The lifespan of a metal roof also last at least 40 years longer than a regular shingle roof.
Minimal Resistance
Metal roofing systems call for little maintenance as they do not crack, crumble or discolour over time like other roofing materials. As well, they have better fire and impact resistance than your standard asphalt shingles.
Environmentally Friendly
Millions of tons of asphalt shingles (being not recyclable) and other roofing materials end up in landfills every year. Many types of metal roof systems are made from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable.
Energy Efficient
Metal roofing can bring down your A/C costs due to the metal panels reflecting solar radiant heat.
Initial Installation Cost
Metal roofs do have a higher up-front cost compared to most asphalt shingles. However, a metal roof does offer a longer lifespan.
Longer Install Period
While most shingle roof homes can be done in a day, metal roofs take longer. Most metal roof profiles can range from 3 - 5 days to complete while standing seam roofs can take up to 3 weeks to install.
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We hope that this helps give you some information on choosing the right choice for your home. Still unsure? Reach out to us at 705-719-9991 if you have any questions or concerns.
Contact us or request a quote below to start the conversation. We can't wait to help you with your next project!