There are multiple roofing options for homes. Some have been around for decades and have become part of home exterior styles. The two most common types of roofing contractors offer are asphalt shingles and metal roofs. On average, homeowners will pay $8,000 to $9,000 to shingle a roof and even more for metal roofs. But which one is better?
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing. It’s popular for residential properties. Shingles come in sheets, rolls, or stacks and are uniform in design. The composition of this roofing type includes a ceramic outer surface and smooth asphalt layering.
Typically, wooden-frame roofing will go in place first, and the shingles will go on top. They layer upwards from the lowest point on a sloped roof. They are an economical roofing option since their manufacturing cost is low. They are also simple to install. Nearly 75% of homes in North America have shingle roofs on them.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing comes in large sheets with different patterns. It includes corrugated metal and flat-seam metal. It has seams that interlock to give a smooth metal surface with much durability. It’s made of corrugated steel, aluminum, or composite metals.
What’s Better For Your House?
The type of roof that’s better for your house depends on multiple factors like the home’s structure, location, etc. Even though both are great options, one may be better for your needs. Let’s compare the two:
Finishing Options
Both materials have great finish options for every housing style. Shingles initially had a traditional look, but nowadays, they can mimic the look of wooden shakes, slates, and tiles.
Some shingles have scalloped edges that go perfectly with Victorian homes or a terracotta look to recreate the look of Mediterranean homes. You can tell your roofing contractor what look you’re going for, and they’ll be able to recommend the perfect shingles for your roof.
Similarly, metal roofing also has various options and finishes. You can get metal roof installation in East Coast Victorian styles or more refined modern looks. Since you can get the look you want with either, choose the material that performs best for you.
Durability
Both options are durable, but metal roofs tend to do better with whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Many come with decades of warranties and tend to last longer. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t have any weaknesses. For example, extreme hail or a falling branch can dent it. On the other hand, how long a shingle roof lasts depends largely on the area and the environment in your region.
Price Point
Shingles are more cost-effective upfront, but you’ll likely recover the cost of a metal roof because it won’t need replacing as fast as a shingle roof. Additionally, the installation cost of shingles is lower than metal since the other is a more specialized job.
Eco-Friendly
Metal roofs are more eco-friendly since they’re primarily made of recycled materials. They also have reflective qualities, which makes them energy efficient. Shingles need replacing often. Roughly 12 million tons of asphalt shingles end up in landfills in a year.
Whether you go with asphalt shingles or metal roofs, you need a reliable roofing contractor. Quality Roofing, LLC is the #1 choice for roof installation Huntsville. We offer roofing services for residential and commercial properties. In addition, get all your roof, gutter, and drywall repairs sorted too! Contact us for more information.