Making the decision between purchasing a metal or shingle roof can be difficult. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so how do you know which is right for your home? I’m going to break down a metal roof vs. shingle roof and explore the pros and cons of both to help make your decision easier. First, let’s dive into metal roofs.
Metal Roof
A metal roof is one of the longest-lasting types of roof. They can last upwards of 50 years with little to no maintenance required. They are extremely durable and especially here in New Hampshire, we have seen metal roofs withstand some of the worst weather conditions. Not to mention, they are less likely to build up an ice dam which is a common problem with shingled roofs.
In the unfortunate event your home was to ever catch on fire, you would find some peace of mind knowing that metal roofs are fire resistant. This is due to the fact that metal will not burn and it acts as a barrier to help prevent the fire from spreading.
A metal roof is also one of the most energy-efficient types of roof. As a matter of fact, metal roofs can lead to a ton of energy savings. They reflect sunlight, which helps to keep your home cooler in the summer months. This can lead to lower energy bills as your air conditioning unit won’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.
A metal roof can look great too. They come in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of any home. Many of the homeowners who choose a metal roof also find themselves in love with the unique look it gives their home.
Benefits of Metal Roofing
- Long Lasting
- Durable
- Fire Resistant
- Energy Efficient
The main drawback of metal roofs is the price. They are typically more expensive than shingle roofs to install. However, you have to factor in the long-term cost. Metal roofs typically last much longer than shingle roofs, so you won’t have to replace your roof as often or make repairs as often. This can help to offset the initial cost of metal roofing.
In short, metal roofs are long-lasting, they look great, and are durable, fire resistant, and energy efficient. They come with a higher price tag but can help to save money in the long run by saving on repairs and energy bills too.
Shingle Roof
Shingle roofs are the most common type of roof. They are made from asphalt and they come in a variety of colors and styles. One of the benefits of shingle roofs is that they are relatively easy to install. The installation process is simple, just a matter of nailing the shingles to your roof. This also results in a much faster installation time.
The biggest and typically most obvious benefit of a shingle roof is the cost. They are much cheaper to install than metal roofs and the materials are widely available. This makes them a popular decision for those on a budget, and also contributes to the popularity of shingle roofs.
Obviously, aesthetics vary from person to person, but many people find shingle roofs to be more visually appealing than metal roofs. This is especially true if your home has a more traditional style. This is just personal taste though, as metal roofs can look great on any style of home as well.
Benefits of Shingle Roofing
- Cost Effective
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Faster Installation Process
In short, shingle roofs are less expensive, have a decent aesthetic appeal, and have a faster installation process. These are the most popular types of roofs but they don’t come without some drawbacks including a shorter, but acceptable lifespan and a higher susceptibility to extreme weather conditions.
Metal vs. Shingle Roof. Which One Should You Choose?
So after breaking down both, we can determine that the main deciding factors boil down to price and look. If you’re planning to live in your home for the next 40+ years, it’s probably a good idea to invest in a metal roof. It will last much longer, saving you money in the long run. And if your main concern is aesthetics, it’s really just a personal preference. A metal roof can look just as good as a shingle roof and vice versa.
Metal Roofs used to be known as the best roofing system money could buy. It was the most durable, longest lasting, and had the best resistance to fire and extreme weather conditions. However, that is quickly changing. Asphalt shingles have come a long way in recent years and are starting to give metal roofs a run for their money.
When investing in something so important for your home, it’s also important to take note of what kind of warranty each roof type has. A metal roofing installation can have a manufacturer’s warranty when installed over a single layer of shingles, whereas shingles cannot have a manufacturer’s warranty unless installed directly on plywood (obviously over waterproofing).
The Winner
With all of this in mind, we’d love to crown a winner but we just can’t! Choosing between a metal and shingle roof really just comes down to your personal preference and budget.
If you want the longest-lasting, most durable roof with the best protection against fire and extreme weather (like ice), go with a metal roof. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still looks great and will protect your home just as any roof should, go with shingles. The choice ultimately comes down to you!
If you’re looking into whether to purchase a metal or shingle roof for your home, give us a call here at Energy Shield of New Hampshire. Our roofing experts would love to help you make the best decision for your home taking into account all your wants, needs, and concerns, and then install your roof quickly and efficiently. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
