If you’re looking to buy a new house or replace your roof, you’ve probably spent some time mulling over what the best roofing material would be. There are short-term limitations and long-term goals that play into your final decision, and you want to choose the material that satisfies them all.
Learn more here about shingle and metal roof options so that you can make an informed, confident choice.
Here we explain the differences between the two options as well as the pros and cons of each and how your location and personal preference may limit you to one or the other.
Table of Contents
- 10 Factors To Consider When Choosing Between a Metal Roof vs. Shingles
- Is It Better To Have a Metal Roof or Shingles?
- Trouble Deciding Between a Metal Roof vs. Shingles? Oscar Roofing Can Help
10 Factors To Consider When Choosing Between a Metal Roof vs. Shingles
Oscar Roofing has extensive experience with many kinds of roofing materials. Contact us to discuss your roofing project in greater detail.
#1: Durability and Longevity
The most important qualities to look for in a roof are its durability and longevity. You need a roof that will be able to withstand the elements and that will last for as long as possible. The last thing you want is to spend money on a repair or replacement too soon after the roof is installed.
Metal Roofs
The exceptional durability of metal roofs is a key factor that distinguishes them from shingle roofs. Metal can hold up well in various weather conditions, whether it be heavy rain, snow, or wind. Hail can dent certain kinds of metal roofs, depending on their quality, but the problem is cosmetic rather than structural.
Furthermore, the materials used in a metal roof are resistant to rust, mildew, and corrosion. This durability gives metal roofs a long lifespan of between 40 and 70 years.
Shingles
Shingles are typically made of asphalt, wood, or fiberglass. The lifespan of asphalt shingles — which are the most commonly used — is reasonably good (20-30 years), whereas that of wood or fiberglass shingles varies.
Comparable weather conditions generally cause more damage to shingles than to metal roofs. Extreme conditions such as intense sunlight, rain, and wind can break down both the less-dense three-tab asphalt shingles and the denser architectural grade shingles given enough time.
Because they are more porous than metal, shingles are more prone to algae and fungal growth due to pooling water. For this reason, the slope of the roof helps determine the durability of the shingles. The greater the slope, the less pooling of water.
#2: Cost of Project
Cost may or may not be a serious limitation for you. But if you are on a budget, the most expensive roof material may not be an option. On the other hand, if you have the money to pay upfront for a more durable roof, you could save yourself the cost of a more imminent replacement or repair.
Metal Roofs
Generally, the cost of a metal roof vs. shingles is higher at the outset. Installation is more expensive because it requires more professional expertise. The materials themselves are more pricey than asphalt shingles as well.
How much more expensive is a metal roof over shingles? According to Angi, metal roofing costs between $3 and $35 per square foot, as opposed to between $3 and $5 per square foot for shingles.
Nevertheless, you may end up saving more money in the long run by investing in a metal roof because it will probably last longer and you’ll not need to spend as much to maintain it.
In addition, the reflective quality of metal helps keep heat out of your house, so your energy bills can also end up being lower, saving you a significant amount of money over time.
Shingles
Shingles have remained popular mainly because they are the easier, more economical choice. They are relatively easy and quick to install, and you don’t have to pay a specialist for the installation.
Because you’ll likely have to replace your roof sooner, you might end up spending more money on shingles vs. a metal roof.
#3: Aesthetic Appeal
Metal and shingle roofs tend to give off different vibes, and you’ll want your roof to cohere with the style of the rest of your house, so aesthetics are an important factor to consider when deciding which material to use.
Metal Roofs
People often picture a barn or shed covered with tin panels when they think of a metal roof, but metal roofing materials and styles are more varied nowadays.
Metal roofs can look modern and sleek, or even more traditional if you choose, for example, the style resembling Spanish tile. You can customize the appearance of your metal roof by choosing from a range of colors and finishes.
Shingles
Shingles come to mind when people picture a house in a traditional neighborhood, but you can still customize the appearance of your shingle roof by choosing from a generous range of styles and colors.
#4: Installation Complexity
The complexity of installation will be a factor depending on your budget, your timeline, and the availability of specialist roofers in your area, such as Oscar Roofing.
Metal Roofs
Installation of a metal roof is more complex because it requires:
- Precise measurements
- Careful handling of materials
- Proper sealing to make sure it is water-resistant
Because of this, you will probably not want to DIY a metal roof installation. Non-professionals can mistakenly choose inferior materials or make critical errors in the installation process.
The extra care required to install a metal roof results in longer installation times, so keep this in mind if you are considering this type of roof material.
Shingles
Shingle installation, on the other hand, generally does not take as much time because it is not as complex. You can do it yourself, but for the best results we recommend having a professional install your shingle roof.
Before beginning a roof replacement or repair you must contact your homeowners association to be sure you comply with their roofing guidelines.
#5: Material Weight
The weight-bearing capability of your home structure may limit what materials you may use for the roof.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are lighter than shingles and thus reduce the overall weight on the structure. If your home has specific structural requirements, a lighter material can be advantageous.
The metal material used for roofing has a gauge number that indicates its thickness and weight per square foot. The higher the number, the thinner the metal. Thinner metals may be lighter, but they are also more vulnerable to damage from falling branches and hail.
Shingles
Shingles, especially those made of asphalt that are traditionally used, can be heavier than metal roofing materials. Architectural-grade shingles are slightly heavier than three-tab shingles. Certain structures may not be able to bear the weight of shingles without additional support.
#6: Energy Efficiency
If you want to minimize energy usage and save energy costs, you’ll want to choose the most energy-efficient material for roofing your home.
Metal Roofs
Because of the reflective properties of metal, metal roofs reduce the absorption of sunlight and heat. As a result, the interior of your home stays cooler, and you spend less energy trying to cool your home.
Shingles
Asphalt shingles, however, absorb a good deal of heat, especially if they are black. Installing shingles in a lighter color and ensuring adequate ventilation in the attic may help reduce the amount of heat getting into the interior of your home and thus the amount of energy used to cool it.
There are also some shingle options with reflective coatings to improve energy efficiency. Get in touch with Oscar Roofing to learn about all the options available.
#7: Environmental Impact
The manufacturing and disposal of roofing materials result in different degrees of environmental impact, which should be taken into consideration when deciding on the material you want to invest in.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing materials may be more sustainable because they can be recycled or repurposed at the end of their lifespan as a roof. This minimizes the impact of disposal on the environment.
When it comes to deciding between a metal vs. shingle roof, metal seems to be the most environmentally friendly.
Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a petroleum-based product. Large-scale production of products with petroleum has had a tremendously negative effect on the environment, endangering plant, animal, and human life.
The chemicals of most concern contained in asphalt shingles are formaldehyde and dissolved organic carbon. Roofs made of shingles with these ingredients are not suitable for collecting potable water. There is also concern that these and other harmful substances collect in hazardous amounts in the run-off from these roofs.
In addition, disposed shingles usually end up in a landfill because they can’t be recycled.
Shingles made of wood or recycled materials may be more eco-friendly options.
#8: Maintenance Requirements
How much time, effort, and money will you need to spend maintaining your roof? The answer will depend on what material you use.
Metal Roofs
Generally, metal roofs are easier to maintain than shingles. They should be cleaned occasionally and inspected regularly for damage or corrosion. Cleaning a metal roof is relatively easy due to its smooth surface.
Shingles
A shingled roof may require more frequent attention, however. Shingles that have been damaged or removed during severe weather should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent leaks and further damage.
#9: Noise Considerations
How will the roof material affect how sound is perceived within the house?
Metal Roofs
Contrary to what many people expect, rain hitting a metal roof is not much noisier than rain hitting shingles. As long as your roof is underlaid with adequate insulation, any extra noise will be sufficiently minimized so as not to be obnoxious to the occupants of the home.
Shingles
Rain falling on traditional asphalt or fiberglass shingles may have a slightly softer sound, but these materials do not have a significant noise-reducing effect.
#10: Resale Value
Any variables associated with the appearance and integrity of your home affects its resale value. This is especially true of the roof, which is clearly visible and such an essential first defense against the elements.
Metal Roofs
Because a metal roof generally lasts longer and is more durable, it can increase the resale value of a home. Buyers often see a metal roof as a valuable investment with lower maintenance costs. They will likely be willing to pay more for this added security.
Shingles
Shingles, although they are the most commonly used roofing material, will not likely be perceived as especially beneficial by buyers. The age and condition of the roof, however, may have a greater impact on the resale value than the material used. For example, a new shingle roof could be worth more to buyers than a dinged and dented metal roof.
Is It Better To Have a Metal Roof or Shingles?
Metal roofs may be the longest-lasting, safest, most low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly option if you have the money and time to spend upfront, whereas shingles may be the most immediately economical option. Ultimately, it depends on your budget and personal preferences.
Trouble Deciding Between a Metal Roof vs. Shingles? Oscar Roofing Can Help
Oscar Roofing can help with either kind of roof. You can consult with us for a professional opinion regarding your unique home structure.
Our family-owned and operated company has been serving homes in Indiana for over thirty years. Our experienced teams can serve your roofing needs — whether you need a replacement, repair, or inspection — with expert workmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Contact us today to discuss your roofing project and get a free estimate as well as a timeline for our services.
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