The Pros and Cons of Shingles and Metal Roofs
December 16, 2022 | By Mike Gonet | Filed under: Blog, Cost of a Metal Roof, Metal Roofing
Shingles vs. Metal Roofs
When determining roofing materials, it’s essential to understand that your roof will significantly contribute to your home’s look, feel, and value. Besides the initial cost of your roof, you must also consider the long-term energy costs and maintenance. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the pros and cons of shingles versus metal roofs.
What Are Shingle Roofs?
Shingles can come in a range of materials and generally come in sheets, stacks, or rolls. These roofs are made by nailing shingles into a wooden-framed roofing structure in a layered format. This type of roofing is popular since it is affordable, quick, and easy to install.
What Are Metal Roofs?
Metal roofs have gained recent popularity for their durable nature and elegant, versatile appeal. Metal roofing material comes in shingle and standing seam profiles and in a range of base metal materials and can last a lifetime when installed by a seasoned professional. It is a more expensive roofing type due to the cost of materials and careful installation method.
Advantages of Shingles
- Affordable material and installation
- Straightforward and simple to install and repair
- Easily accessible
Advantages of Aluminum Metal Roofs
- Unparalleled longevity
- Low maintenance
- A trendy roofing material
- Increased energy efficiency
- The most environmentally friendly roof
- The light weight of the material, less stress on the structure
- The best hurricane rated wind resistance
The Cons of Shingles
- Less weather resistant
- Low snow retention
- Insufficient energy savings
The Cons of Metal Roofs
- Costly installation and material prices
- More complex installation process
The Cost of Shingle Roofs
The initial cost of shingles is less than that of metal roofs. Depending on the material of shingles you choose, you are looking at $4 to $12 per square foot. However, shingles may have hidden costs down the line, such as maintenance costs and utility bill increases.
The Cost of Aluminum Metal Roofs
Metal roofing is known to be a costly expenditure. Metal roofing goes from around $16 to $26 per sq foot but is subject to change due to the fluctuating price of metal. While metal roofs may be more expensive upfront, they require minimal maintenance and may even improve your utility bill.
Maintenance Required for Shingle Roofs
Shingles require maintenance. They are not inherently expensive or strenuous to maintain, but they require upkeep in order to last as long as they are promised. Shingles are not as tough when it comes to the effects of the environment.
Maintenance Required for Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have a reputation for being low maintenance. While specific models may require more maintenance and care than others, they are an excellent choice for homeowners who do not want to invest too much time cleaning or repairing their roofs.
The Longevity of Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs offer shorter lifespans especially here in New England. These roofs typically last between 15 and 20 years. Shingles have a harder time withstanding the elements, making them prone to deterioration.
The Longevity of Aluminum Metal Roofs
Depending on the type of metal roofing material you go with, you’re looking at 100 plus years of reliable performance when properly installed from your roof. Metal roofs can sometimes last even longer, making them a wise investment based on their longevity.
The Installation Process of Shingle Roofs
When it comes to installation, shingle roofs are the favored material. Shingles are incredibly straightforward to install. While it may be time-consuming to place shingles, it is not challenging, making it a breeze for any roofing contractor.
The Installation Process of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have a reputation for being more finicky to install. Due to their large sheets and specific installation needs, they should always be installed by a professional contractor. There are several key factors to look out for during installation that can make or break the finished product.
Aluminum Metal Roofs vs. the Environment
Manufactured of post-consumer recycled aluminum, these roofs are the greenest roofs produced on Earth! At the end of their life (in 100-plus years) They will be recycled yet again. No landfill for these roofs.
Shingles Home Resale Value
Homes equipped with shingles will not increase in value the same way a home with metal roofing will. While a home will not depreciate due to shingles, the roof’s quality and the shingles’ material may make a difference to potential buyers.
Aluminum Metal Roofs Home Resale Value – ROI
Metal roofing adds significant value to a home as these types of roofs offer longevity that may be appealing to potential buyers. Metal roofing has grown in popularity, making it a hot commodity in the housing market. Knowing that you will never have to replace the roof on your home is a big deal. Today’s aluminum metal roofs are returning as much as 90% on your investment.
Choose a Metal Roof With Classic Metal Roofs
For a practical, aesthetically pleasing roof that will last you a lifetime, choose a metal roof installed by the expert metal roofing contractors at Classic Metal Roofs. Our team of knowledgeable professionals is here to guide you through the process of installing your metal roof. Contact us today to discuss your unique requirements and to schedule a consultation.
