When you own property, choosing the right type of roof for your home is one of the most important decisions you will need to make. The right roof can last upwards of 15-25 years, if not more. In some cases, roofs can last between 40-70 years with the right materials in place. Knowing how to choose between metal and asphalt roofing materials will help you plan for your investment months, if not years in advance.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
When you enter the market of roofing for residential homes, you may not first consider a metal roofing. However, there are many advantages of investing in a metal roof that make it one of the most appealing materials for residential and commercial structures today, including:
- Extended Lifespan: If you are ready to make a significant investment into your home’s roof while guaranteeing its lifespan lasts at least 40 years, a metal roof may be right for you. In most instances, metal roofs will last between 40 and 70 years in total, which is significantly longer than traditional asphalt shingle-based roofing solutions.
- Energy Efficiency: If you want to ensure your home is as efficient as possible year-round, a metal roof can help. In some instances, metal roofing solutions have the ability to reduce indoor cooling costs between 10-25% in total with proper reflection material in place.
- Lack of Corrosion Risk: When investing in a new roof in an area where rainfall and dampness are prominent, choosing the right roofing material is imperative. With metal roofing solutions, you immediately eliminate the risk of the corrosion or cracking of the roofing material itself.
Drawbacks of Metal Roofs
Before choosing a metal roof for your home, it’s also important to understand that there are some drawbacks. Some of the most notable issues that arise when investing in a metal roof for a residential home that you might encounter include:
- Cost: The cost of a new metal roof for any residential home is often significantly higher than a traditional asphalt shingle roof. For instance, a metal roof can cost anywhere between $100 to more than $900 per square 100 feet, which can quickly add up when you are in the market for an entirely new roof or you own a larger home and lot.
- Expansion Potential: Depending on the climate your home is located in, there is also a risk of potential expansion trouble and contraction, especially in extreme weather. If this is the case, the installation process will likely require additional fasteners to secure the roof in place year-round.
- Increased Noise: If you prefer a quiet, soundproofed home, a metal roof may not be optimal for on. Typically, metal roofs are louder than the average asphalt or insulated shingle roof.
Benefits of Asphalt Roofs
Shingle asphalt roofs are some of the most common roof types found installed on all types of homes around the world. Some of the most popular advantages of an asphalt roof includes:
- Cost: The affordability of an asphalt shingle-based roof makes it the most appealing option on the market for most homeowners today. The cost of asphalt roofs will typically range between $70 to $150 or more per square 100 feet, compare to $100 to $900 per square feet with a metal roofing solution.
- Simple Install: Installing an asphalt roof is simple and straighforward.
- Soundproofing: Sound insulation is much easier to attain with an asphalt roof over a metal roofing solution.
Potential Setbacks of Asphalt Roofs
As with any type of roof, there are also potential setbacks that come with asphalt roofs. Some drawbacks of asphalt roofs include:
- Lifespan: While a metal roof may last between 40 and 70 years, an asphalt roof will typically last between 15 and 30 years in total.
- Water Damage Risks: There are also risks of water damage, as asphalt shingles are much more susceptible to leaks.
- Mold: Due to water damage risks, the potential for mold and mildew growth is also increased.
Regardless of the size and type of home you are living in, working with the right crew and company can help streamline the process of selecting a roofing material that is genuinely right for your home. Even if you are working with a strict budget in place, professional contractors can walk you through finding a roofing solution that is attainable to you and within your reach.
Understanding the difference between metal and asphalt roofs and where they are best applied can help you choose a roofing solution that is sure to last while being the most cost-effective for your needs at the time. When you understand various roofing materials, solutions, and benefits, you can find a roofing solution that will not only last you for years to come, but one that will also add value, appeal, and even energy efficiency to your home. With an understanding of the type of roofing material you are interested in and access to a roofing company you can trust and rely on, you can move forward with your project of investing in a new metal or asphalt roof of your choice.