Metal Roofs vs Asphalt Shingles
If you’re in need of a new roof, picking between metal roofs or traditional roofs can be a daunting choice. Both products are among the most commonly used roofing materials and each come with their own set of pros and cons. To find out which option is the best match for your space, here are some factors to consider:
Metal Roofing & Shingle Roofs: what’s the difference?
Metal roofs, as the name suggests, are roofing systems made of metal, like aluminum, steel or copper alloys. Just as they can vary in type of metal, these roofs also come in an array of colors, styles, and shapes, with the ability to mimic the appearance of other materials such as wood and slate. Due to the wide variety of visual options available for metal roofs, it has become increasingly popular and prevalent.
Metal roofs are known for adding value to homes by being durable, eco-friendly, energy efficient, and lightweight. They can withstand even the most intense weather conditions, such as hail, strong winds, and fire. Its lifespan is estimated to be 50 to 100 years, provided that it has been installed and maintained properly. In Alberta, having a metal roof increases energy efficiency and insulation ratings for your home. It is a common misconception that metal roofs will heat up your house. Because of their lower thermal mass and reflective properties, metal roofs make it easier to control the temperature inside your home.
Another reason for its growing popularity is because metal roofs are a sustainable option. Our metal roofing options are made of at least 25% recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Asphalt Shingles, on the other hand, are one of the most common types of roofing materials you will find across homes in Canada. The main benefit of this product is its low cost, both for installation and the material itself. Because it’s so popular, asphalt shingles come in many different colors and textures, and can match most aesthetic needs.They are cheaper to repair, since you can replace only the area that’s been damaged, instead of the whole roofing structure. On the other hand, you’re likely going to need to repair it more often, due to its shorter lifespan and vulnerability to wear and tear.
Because asphalt shingles are petroleum based products, they can’t be recycled. And since asphalt shingled roofs will need a replacement every 15-20 years, due to its shorter lifespan and lack of durability, billions of pounds of this material end up in landfills, which is unsafe for the environment.
How much does a metal roof cost compared to a shingle roof?
Because metal roofs have a better warranty and longer lifespan than shingles, they come at a higher cost. Metal roofing also requires specialized training and tools to ensure proper installation. While your upfront cost may be higher, a properly installed metal roof can last as long as the house itself and will cost you less in the long run.
Asphalt shingles, on the contrary, are known to be a cheaper alternative to metal roofing. This material can be half the upfront cost and is widely available. It is also cheaper to repair. However, with the amount of repairs that you may be subjected to, the costs may accumulate in the long run for asphalt shingles.
If you plan on making this your forever home, opting for metal roofing now will save you money in the long run.
Do metal roofs leak more compared to shingles?
No, in fact, properly installed metal roofs contain significantly less water exposure points compared to traditional shingled roofs. The vast majority of I Roof’s installations utilize concealed fastener systems, with no exposed fasteners that would be susceptible to leaking. For example, our standing seam and metal shingle roofing systems are all interlocked and/or seamed, with little or no exposed fasteners, keeping your property safe from the elements.
As with any important structural investment, it is crucial to hire the right help to get the job done properly. I Roof’s professional installers understand the uncontrollable and harsh weather conditions we face in Alberta. Their expertise combined with our quality materials are the key to securing the integrity and longevity of your new roofing system.
Which option is better for my home?
Both options come with their own sets of pros and cons and it comes down to what you need. If you currently have asphalt shingles, installing a metal roof over it is also possible. Since the process of tearing down existing roofs is time consuming and very labor intensive, this option offers great time and cost savings.
In the end, both roofing options have so much to offer and one isn’t necessarily better than the other. It all depends on your immediate needs, preferences, allotted budget, and long-term goals.
Should you need more help and information on whether or not metal roofing is the right choice for you, the experts at I Roof are here to help! We are the only roofing company that focuses solely on metal roofing, from high-quality products to the latest technologies. Call us at (587) 377-7663.