Reasons to Switch From Asphalt Shingles to Aluminum Metal Roofs
August 20, 2018 | By Mike Gonet | Filed under: Blog, Metal Roofing
Although asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing types in the country, aluminum metal roofs have been proven to be the better option. Here, your local metal roof contractor, Classic Metal Roofs LLC, shows you why it’s smarter to choose an aluminum metal roof for your roof replacement.
Weather Resistance
Asphalt shingles don’t hold up well to severe weather, and buying wind and impact-resistant variants cost 50% more. Moreover, they can be vulnerable to moss, mildew, and algae (black streaks), which can shorten their lifespan.
On the other hand, metal is excellent in preventing leaks and offers the best wind resistance. Also, aluminum metal roofs are fire-resistant, which makes them the perfect choice in areas prone to wildfires.
Longevity
Asphalt shingle performance depends largely on a well-ventilated roof deck and regular maintenance in order to last an average of 15 years here in MA. Aluminum metal, by itself, is weather-resistant and can last close to a century or more. This is possible with only a very minimal amount of care and maintenance.
Sturdiness and Heft
Basic shingles weigh about 250 pounds per square. That’s a 10 foot by 10-foot area. Laminated, textured, and higher-end shingles can weigh close to 500 pounds per square. Metal is about the lightest material for roofing; for example, aluminum roofing ranges at 50-60 pounds per square.
Recycling
America disposes of about 11 million tons of asphalt shingles per year. About 10 million tons are from installation scraps and tear-offs from re-roofing. Moreover, shingle waste makes up 8% of the total building-related waste stream. By contrast, aluminum metal roofing contains about 95% recycled materials and is itself recyclable.
Installation
Installing asphalt shingles is easier, but due to the weight of shingles, the previous shingle materials must first be removed. Also, insurance companies may demand the removal of previous asphalt shingles. Metal roof installations, however, require far more expertise. Trained metal roof mechanics are required to install a factory-specified metal roof.
Energy Efficiency
Aluminum metal reflects heat, keeping houses cooler in the summer. A metal roof will lower your energy bills by about 25-30 percent in the summer. While asphalt shingles absorb heat from daytime sunlight to make the home warmer, metal roofs perform just as well in winter. The year-round energy usage would still be lower with a metal roof. Our roofs are all energy star rated.
For the highest quality metal roofing in MA with an installation done by our own employees, choose Classic Metal Roofs, LLC. Call (866) 660-6668 or use our Free Consultation form. You can see our roofs in any of these MA towns, Medfield, Sherborn, Dover, Stow, Framingham, Hubbardston, Princeton, Phillipston, Andover, North Andover, Beverly, Salem or just about any other town in Massachusetts.
