Metal-vs-Shingle, what should I choose and why?

If it’s time to install a new roof, the variety of choices and options available can be intimidating. Here at Fortitude, we’ll do our best to make the process as seamless as possible. In this article, we’ll focus on the differences, pros & cons, and pricing of various roofing materials available to you.

Asphalt shingles are the staple of the roofing industry, with a long-standing reputation for being reliable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain. Shingles are the most widely used roofing material because of availability and cost.

Metal is the second most popular roofing material available today.  Metal carries the benefits of durability, life span, and a wide variety of styles. Traditionally, metal roofs were made of corrugated tin panels that evoke images of barns or sheds. Today, metal roofing has significantly modernized and is available in zinc, aluminum, galvanized steel, and copper. Metal Roofing comes in the form of shingle, slate, traditional panel, and shake styles.

Although both materials are great for residential roofing, one may be more appealing in regards to aesthetics, eco-friendliness, durability, and pricing. Because you can achieve the desired aesthetic from both materials, let’s dive a little deeper into product differentiation.

Durability

Metal roofs tend to be more durable, often coming with 30-to-50 year warranties. Metal roofs are also lighter, making it easier for installers to handle and transport. Reducing the weight and stress on your roof deck reduces your house’s frame damage and preserves the integrity of your home. However, metal roofs are not without their weaknesses. Metal is susceptible to extreme hail or falling branches that can leave dents and scratches, although this is also dependent on the material. For more information about the difference in metal, see this article. https://fortituderoofing.co/faq/when-to-replace-or-repair-your-roof-and-why

Asphalt shingles also come with their own set of weaknesses. Exposure to pooling water and chronically damp conditions can lead to algae and fungus. Additionally, ice dams can create cracks, and temperature spikes can lower the longevity of asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles typically come with 15-30 year warranties depending largely on the region, environment, and climate.

Price 

Shingle roofs are cheaper at the point of installation.  Although you’ll get more life out of a metal roof you’ll pay more for the material. Metal roofs generally cost from $600 - $1300 per 100 square feet (one 10-foot by 10-foot area, or a “square” of material), while asphalt shingles will typically cost between $300 - $400 per 100 square feet. Installation costs are also higher for metal materials as it requires more labor. Although metal roofs can be significantly more expensive, you may never have to replace them. 

Eco-friendliness

Metal roofs are considered a more sustainable choice of material due to their “eco-friendliness.”   Metal tends to be energy-efficient thanks to its reflective properties, which in turn can reduce heat transmission to the interior of your home. This in turn will help the homeowner save money on monthly heating & air conditioning costs. On the other hand, asphalt shingles need to be replaced more often than their metal counterparts, increasing the amount of asphalt being thrown into landfills. Asphalt shingles are also a petroleum-based product, with dependency on fossil fuels for their production. 

Ease-Of-Installation

The last thing to consider is ease of installation.  Asphalt shingling requires less time for installation than metal roofing materials. Shingles can be installed in a matter of days with little room for error, whereas the installation of metal materials requires skill and specialization, and will generally take 2-3x longer than shingle installation.   If you decide to invest in a metal roof, plan for extended construction around your home.

If you’re in the market for a new roof, give Fortitude Roofing Company a call.  We put a great emphasis on the quality of the roof we install.  All of our estimates are free, and we promise no sales gimmicks, just an honest assessment of your needs.  (252) 515-1016.

Areas we service: Morehead City NC - Emerald Isle NC - Atlantic Beach NC - Havelock NC - Beaufort NC - Newport NC - Swansboro NC - Jacksonville NC - New Bern NC - Havelock NC - Trent Woods NC - Peletier NC - Stella NC- Hubert NC - Richlands NC