Originally posted on https://www.energy-roofing.com/shingle-roof-vs-metal-roof/
There is a big difference when you want to compare: shingle roof vs. metal roof. For years, Asphalt shingle roofing has been the most dominant roofing material in the industry. But slowly, metal roofing is gaining popularity. Currently, you can find metal panels and shingles that are more aesthetic and long-lasting.
I’m sure you want more than just the basic shelter. With that in mind, your roof is one of the most important elements in your home. It actually protects you from the elements which include winter’s cold and summer’s heat. On top of that, it fits the whole structural design in place.
It’s not easy deciding when it comes to shingle roof vs. metal roof. Luckily, this article is at your best interest. Here I’ll take you through the difference between the two and hence give you the chance to make a wise decision. So, shall we get started? Let’s talk about the strengths and weaknesses of each and then compare the two.
Pros and Cons of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
1. Metal Roof
When it comes to deciding which one is better between shingle roof and metal roof, it’s important to keep in mind that each has its own potential. Metal roofs, for instance, are very energy efficient and quite light. That makes it a good option if you are planning to install a new roof.
Additionally, metal roofs come in a variety of options. From aluminium roof sheet, steel sheet, to tin roofs, you name it! For more information, check out our blog post on the different types of shingle and metal roofs.
All these options have an aesthetic value to your home. At the same time, they are also very efficient. But there are a few factors that definitely differentiate metal roof apart from shingle roof.
To fully understand and learn which one is better-shingle roof vs. metal roof, we need to find out what is unique about each. Metal roofs are a common option for most homes. They are not just a novelty.
A few years back, metal roofing was the latest type of roofing system. It was only found in high-end homes. But now, metal roofing is easily found on conventional houses. That’s all thanks to the increase in availability and manufacturing plants. This type of roofing system is also quite durable and longer lasting.
Pros of Metal Roofing
a) Can Be Installed Over Existing Roofs
This is one of the benefits of metal roofing. You can easily install metal roofs over an existing roof system without necessarily having to remove the shingles. Even though removing the shingles is preferred, it ends up making the process messy. On top of that, it raises the cost of installation.
However, one of the risks with this type of installation is trapped moisture. If there is water trapped between the previous roofing system and the metal roof, then it will cause mold and eventually rot. Also, if the roof has current issues such as leaks or other problems, those issues should be addressed before the new roof is installed.
b) Fire Resistant
Fire resistance is also another major benefit of metal roofs. It’s particularly important in areas that are prone to wildfire. Not only are metal roofs fire-resistant, they can also withstand harsh weather conditions such as hailstones. A metal roof is capable of withstanding the largest hailstones with minimal damage.
c) Easy to Install
Majority of the metal roofs in the market come with multiple shingle sections. With a professional contractor, the installation process will be completed in a few hours. More importantly, if a storm is on the way, then shortening the installation period by a day will obviously offer a critical advantage. The other advantage you get is that it will save you a lot of money especially on the labor service.
d) Heat Conduction
One of the major advantages of using metal roofing is that they are able to reflect the sun’s heat. That helps to minimize the heat gain in the house. Therefore, you will be able to save your bills spent on air condition during the day.
As much as the metal roofing has a low insulation level, R-value, a professional contractor can utilize the dead-air space technique to increase energy efficiency. Also, he or she can be able to apply the metal roofing on a sheet with a high insulation level.
All in all, at Energy Roofing, we have a cool roofing system. Cool roofing is basically a type of roof material that we use in all our roofing systems to help deliver higher solar energy reflectance.
The fact that more sunlight is reflected off the cool roof, means that there is less heat being absorbed. Therefore, you won’t need a lot of energy to cool down the house. This is especially important in areas that experience warm climates such as California. Additionally, this process helps to reduce the cost of roof maintenance and replacement.
Cons of Metal Roofing
- Denting: Just like a car will easily dent when hit by a golf ball, the same situation happens when you expose your metal roof to extreme force. Copper and aluminium are much softer so they are more prone to denting.
- Leaking: though this is almost a guarantee to any roofing system that’s not properly installed, metal roofs, however, are more prone to leakages. Therefore, a metal roof must be installed properly by a professional. When the screws are attached to a flat surface, then rainwater is bound to run down the roof. For that very reason, special washes are usually installed to seal the screw heads.
2. Shingle Roof
On the other side, Asphalt shingle roofs are currently the most popular type of roofing system in the market. Besides their aesthetic value, shingle roofs are able to withstand any heavy storms without having any leaks. Before we proceed to more on shingle roofing, you should check out this blog on how to repair a leaking roof in case you have any issues with your roofing system.
Now, back to shingle roofs, they are among the least expensive type of roofing systems. On top of that, most homeowners actually know and would prefer Asphalt shingles with good reason. So what exactly is a shingle roofing system? The asphalt shingle roofing system is based on an asphalt material that’s made out of fiberglass and in some cases an organic material. This organic material is usually covered by asphalt on both sides.
Afterward, the top gets a coating of quartz, mica, schist, ceramic, quartz or stone. The backside is covered with talc, mica or sand which helps the shingles to stick together. Let’s get to the pros and cons of asphalt shingles.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles
a) It’s Affordable
These type of roofing system are the best-priced option for anyone with a small budget. That’s actually the main reason why most homeowners prefer Asphalt shingles. What’s more, if the roofing system is properly installed, it will likely serve you for up to 30 years or more.
b) Range of Style Options
When it comes to asphalt shingles, there’s always something for everyone. Whether you have a traditional or contemporary home, shingle roofs are the best option. They come in blue, brown, green red, tan and so much more. Additionally, shingle roofs come in several shapes and sizes. So your house will completely stand out from the rest of the houses. To check out some of the colors and styles of the shingle roofing material, check out this page at Owens Corning.
c) They are Easy to Install
Without a doubt, the shingle asphalt roofing system is quite easy to install. But the installation process is best handled by a professional contractor. Many people make the mistake of hiring a handyman to fix or install their roof, but it’s definitely a risk. Sooner or later, your roof might develop leaks if it’s not installed properly. It’s better to pay a little extra and get it done the right way to avoid future headaches.
Cons of Asphalt Shingle Roof
One of the biggest problems that you will face with the Asphalt shingle is the fact that they might get damaged during the installation. More importantly, it’s easy for these shingles to get damaged during cold temperature. Shingles are also susceptible to wind and they can easily crack especially if they are not installed properly. Overall, asphalt shingle is a good alternative to any home.
Which Roofing System is the Best; Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof?
Well, now that we’ve looked at the pros and cons of Shingle roof vs. Metal roof, it’s now time to find the best of the two. Here are some traits we can use to find the best type of roofing system:
a) Installation of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
When it comes to installation, shingle roofing is much easier to install when compared to metal roofs. However, due to the weight of the shingles, the previous ones may need to be removed before installation of the new pieces.
But since the installation process is easier, the removal of the older shingles will essentially take up to a day depending on the size of the house. On the other hand, some of the metal roofing types are quite light. Meaning, you can easily install them on top of the previous roofing.
However, it will generally take longer to install a metal roof since you will need to add plywood. This acts as an insulation to reduce any noise. When the installation is done by a professional, you will not even hear the hailstorms or rain from inside the house. That is why it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional before installation.
b) The Appearance of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
Without a doubt, asphalt shingles are more popular when compared to metal roofs. In the US, most homeowners have asphalt shingles. The main reason is that most builders actually trust asphalt when compared to metal roofs.
What’s more, asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and designs. They will be able to match with your brick wall. The variety of colors is more compared to that of metal roofs. More to that, the three types of shingles give the roof a flat appearance. The more expensive type of shingle will give your roof a 3D appearance.
c) The Durability of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
The high price of metal roofs is basically because of its long-life expectancy. The metal roofing is capable of lasting close to 60 years with very little maintenance. More to that, warranties for metal roofs are offered for 50 years or so. On the other hand, warranties for asphalt roofs are offered for 20 to 25 years. This all depends on the company.
The material used to make asphalt roofs are susceptible to wind and hail. But the fiberglass shingles are more durable when compared to the organic ones. When not installed properly, asphalt shingles are prone to accumulate mold, mildew or algae since they don’t get adequate sunlight.
Metal roofs are resilient to bad weather such as high winds and hails. More importantly, they are impervious to bugs, mildew, and molds. But if the metal roof material is not rust-resistant, then you shouldn’t use it near saltwater. Luckily, there are more rust-resistant metal alloys that you can use.
d) Maintenance of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
Generally, repairs are much more difficult in metal roofs when compared to shingle roofs. That’s because the metal used is placed in sheets hence you must replace them in sheets. On the other hand, when damage happens to the shingle roof, the repair is less expensive and easier.
Another point that you should also note is that metal roofs require very little maintenance. In addition to that, the repair is far less frequent when you compare it to shingle repairs.
e) Fire Resistance of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
Some of the manufacturers in the market rate shingle roofs at class A in terms of fire safety especially the fiberglass type. On the other hand, all metal roofing systems are fire-resistant. To be more specific, steel and copper are more fire-resistant than aluminium. Therefore, the best choice is using metal roofs in areas that are prone to wildfires.
f) Variety of Shingle Roof vs. Metal Roof
Metal roofs come in a range of different materials. One such type of metal roofing is the aluminium metal roof which doesn’t require any coating. However, steel, on the other hand, requires a coating that will help prevent rust.
But asphalt shingles come in only two types: traditional organic and fiberglass shingles. Both of which are a good addition to your home. The biggest difference comes in the layered makeup of traditional organic and fiberglass shingles. Also, when it comes to color, asphalt shingles take the win.
In Summary…
So, which type of roofing system do you think is the best: shingle roof vs. metal roof? Well, I’d love to give you a clear answer. But as you can see from the description above, the best roofing system solely depends on what you are looking for. Both the shingle roof and the metal roof systems are great options. Above all, they both have their own limitations.
The one thing that stands out from the rest is that you need to have a professional contractor help you with the installation process. Otherwise, it won’t matter which roofing system you pick. Talk to Los Angeles’ top roofing contractors to help you get the best roofing system for you.