Metal vs Shingle Roofing
Our Blog Post About Metal Roofs vs Shingles
Whether you are building a new home or replacing an existing roof, choosing the best type of roofing material is an important and sometimes difficult decision. With all the choices out there, it can be tricky to know which roof type is most appropriate for your location, roof design, and budget. There are many considerations to be made when choosing a roof type.
Your Edmond roofing contractor will be able to help you narrow down your choices with helpful advice, but arming yourself with knowledge is the best defense against a wrong choice. Since your roof is the cornerstone of your home and is responsible for keeping your family safe, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly.
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Shingle Roofing
Shingles are generally the first – or only – roof type people think of when replacing or building a residential roof. This is because shingle roofing is by far the most common choice for homes and businesses. In fact, asphalt shingles make up roughly 70% of the residential roofing homes in North America.
Shingles are easily installed and can be used on essentially any roof design. It is quite easy to find a contractor qualified to install a shingle roof and the low upfront cost makes this a good choice for many homeowners. However, shingle roofs only last 15-20 years before needing to be replaced, and severe weather conditions can damage shingles and leave holes in the coverage, putting the roof’s structural integrity in jeopardy due to water damage.
Shingle roofs can be made of asphalt shingles, tile shingles, wood shingles, or slate shingles. While each material will have slightly different characteristics, the following pros and cons can relate to all of them.
Pros
- Easy to replace or install new roofs
- Lower costs up front
- Surplus of qualified installers to choose from
- Less expensive repairs
- More warranty coverage
- Generally more aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- Shorter lifespan
- More costly long term
- More easily damaged by extreme weather
- Susceptible to fire damage
- Not very eco-friendly
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Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is less common than shingle roofing, and also more expensive. While the up-front cost is a barrier for many homeowners, a single metal roof can last over 60 years, making it the better investment in the long run as it will outlast a shingle roof at least three times over. This is one of the main reasons we usually recommend metal roofing for our Edmond commercial roofing clients. While there are many colors and variations to choose from, the aesthetic of a metal roof can still be an issue for some people.
Also, some municipalities do not allow metal roofing, so the location of your home is very important to consider when deciding on a type of roofing material. Metal roofs can be made of copper, aluminum, zinc, and steel. Copper and zinc roofs will last the longest, whereas aluminum has the best resistance to saltwater corrosion. Whichever material you go with, a metal roof will stand up against the elements and protect your home well.
Pros
- Low long-term costs
- Lightweight
- Longest life of any roofing material
- Fire resistant
- Durable against extreme weather conditions
- Eco friendly
Cons
- Costly initial expense
- Fewer professional contractors available
- More labor intensive
- Aesthetic may be unpleasant/not fit the home
- Potential for higher insurance premiums
- May come across municipality issues
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Final Thoughts
In the end, it’s your decision on what to use for your roof. Metal and shingles both provide value in their own respect. You need to take time and weigh your pros and cons with your budget and capabilities. Then, we’ll be here to support you in your decision because we know it’s the best possible one for your and your building.