A Balancing Act: Metal Roof vs Shingles
Got your heads in the clouds, gazing at your roof in contemplation? Puzzling over the illustrious choice, metal roof vs shingles, has led many down a winding path of countless nights spent on problem-solving. Rest assured, by the time you’ve finished this article, you’ll be a few steps closer to clarity.
Now a Rock, Now a Feather: Strengths and Weaknesses
When deciding between a metal shingle roof and a common asphalt shingle roof, looking at their strengths and weaknesses side by side can provide some enlightenment. Metal roofs, being the John Cena of roofing materials, offer durability and longevity. They can withstand intense elements like wind, snow, rain, and sunlight and typically last longer than asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly, as they are often made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their life.
However, with great power comes a great price, and that is precisely the case with metal roofs. They hit your pockets hard, potentially costing you up to three times the price of asphalt shingles.
On the flip-side, asphalt shingles hold the title as the darling of American homeowners and crowned as the most popular roofing option in the United States. They offer an affordable option for roofing, with a vast range of color options to match your style. They are relatively easy to install and repair, and they come with good fire resistance. However, compared to the Hulk-like strength of their metal counterparts, they are more susceptible to extreme weather conditions and have a shorter lifespan.
Aesthetic Appeal: You Are What Your Roof Is
If style and curb appeal hold a special place in your heart, this may be the clutch part of the debate for you. Asphalt shingles offer a traditional look, conducive to most residential and even commercial buildings. Metal roofing, on the other hand, marches to the beat of a different drum. Shimmering atop your house, it offers a modern and sleek look, yet can be designed to mimic everything – from shakes to slate and tile, providing a variety of aesthetics to choose from.
The Low-Down on Longevity: In It for The Long Haul
In the world of roofing, durability often translates directly into longevity. In general, a metal roof may last between 40-70 years, outlasting asphalt shingles by a few decades. Asphalt shingles usually come with a warranty of 20-30 years. But keep in mind, installation quality, maintenance, and local climate can significantly impact the longevity of your roof.
The Bottom Line: Your Choice, Your Roof
Your choice boils down to your priorities. If it’s longevity and durability that you consider non-negotiable, and you don’t mind the hefty price tag, then a metal roof could be your champion. But if you’re after affordability, ease of installation and repair, and a traditional look, then you might find yourself on Team Shingles.
In our whimsical journey through roofing materials, we’ve unmasked the characters of metal roof and shingles, scrutinized their strengths and weaknesses, style, and longevity. Remember, when deciding on a roof, it’s not just about choosing the best material, but selecting the one most suited to your needs and the demands of your local climate. With your newfound knowledge on the subject, we trust you will make the perfect choice for your Marietta, GA home. Having chosen your champion in this great debate of metal roof vs shingles, you can now rest easy under whichever you choose to grace your skyline!
