When it comes to home comfort and security, choosing the right roofing material is essential. Because your home’s roof is its first line of defense against rain, snow, and hail, the material from which it’s constructed can directly impact your property’s longevity, appearance, and energy efficiency. For this reason, metal roofing and shingle roofing are two of the most popular roofing options among homeowners, as both provide strong, insulative shields from hazardous outdoor elements.
But in the battle of metal roof vs shingles, which material is best suited for YOUR home?
In this guide, we’ll help you make an educated decision by outlining the pros and cons of both. While shingles remain the popular choice for their versatility and affordability, metal roofing has become an increasingly popular alternative for its durability and eco-friendly composition.
Let’s get started with an overview of these two popular roof materials.
Overview of Metal Roofs and Shingles
Metal Roofs
- Metal roofs are, first and foremost, one of the most durable, long-lasting roofing options that money can buy.
- Metal roofs are usually made from copper, zinc, steel, aluminum, or tin.
- Metal roofing is often chosen for its modern look and environmental benefits.
Roof Shingles
- Shingles are a traditional, widely used roofing style, usually made of asphalt.
- The combination of affordability and versatility makes shingles one of—if not the most—popular roofing choices, especially in North American residential homes.
- Shingles come in various styles and colors, making them adaptable to many architectural styles.
Key Differences Between Metal Roofs and Shingles
Cost
- Metal roofing has a significantly higher upfront cost than shingles. Factoring in installation, metal roofing can cost up to twice as much as shingles.
- Because shingles are more affordable, they are favored as a more budget-friendly option among most homeowners.
Installation
- Metal roofs often require specialized installation and more labor time.
- Shingles are easier to install, which means lower installation costs and more scheduling availability among local roofing contractors.
Aesthetics
- While metal roofs enhance buildings with a sleek, modern appearance, they’re aesthetically appropriate for only a limited selection of architectural types.
- Because shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, they can be configured to blend seamlessly with traditional, rustic, and modern home designs.
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs
Pros
- Longevity: Compared to shingles or other roofing materials that last only 15-20 years, metal roofing lasts up to 50-70 years or more.
- Energy efficiency: Due to metal’s reflective properties, metal roofing blocks out heat, significantly lowering utility costs for homeowners in warm climates.
- Weather resistance: Metal roofs can withstand hurricane-force winds and fire, making them a favorable choice in areas with extreme climates.
- Sustainable: Unlike roof shingles that end up in landfills, metal roofs are 100% recyclable.
Cons
- High upfront costs: Due to the price of materials and its specialized installation requirements, metal roofing has a higher upfront cost.
- Poor hail resistance: Depending on the type of material you choose, metal roofs are susceptible to denting from hail or other flying debris.
- Poor sound insulation: Except for copper, most metal roofing materials have less sound insulation than shingle roofing, making them particularly noisy during periods of heavy rain or hail.
Pros and Cons of Shingles
Pros
- Cost: With a lower initial cost than metal roofing, shingles are a more affordable and accessible option for most homeowners.
- Ease of installation and repair: Roof shingles are easier (and less expensive) to repair or replace if damaged.
- Versatility: Shingles are visually fluid and can be configured in a wide range of designer styles and colors for optimized aesthetics.
Cons
- Shorter lifespan: Unlike metal roofs, which can last up to 70 years, shingle roofs typically last 15-20 years.
- Climate vulnerability: Roof shingles are susceptible to issues like mold or algae growth, especially in humid climates. They are also less sturdy than metal roofs, making them prone to wind uplift during severe weather events.
- Frequent maintenance: Shingle roofing requires more frequent maintenance than metal roofing, particularly after thunderstorms.
Environmental Considerations
Metal Roofs
- Often made from materials that can be fully recycled at the end of their lifespan, metal roofs are more environmentally friendly than shingles.
- Because of metal’s reflective properties, homes with metal roofing don’t require excessive cooling during warm weather, making them more energy efficient.
Shingles
- Many modern shingles are designed with eco-friendly features, such as cool roof technology or recyclable materials.
- Roof shingles require lower production energy compared to metals like steel or aluminum.
When Shingles Are the Better Choice
- Budget-conscious projects: Homeowners looking for an affordable roofing solution should talk to their local roofing contractor about shingles due to their budget-friendly installation costs.
- Traditional home styles: Roof shingles blend better with classic or traditional architecture.
- Ease of maintenance: Shingles are easier to repair and replace, making them more practical for older homes.
Final Comparison and Conclusion
In the battle of metal roofs vs shingles, both materials have their pros and cons depending on the homeowner’s priorities. While metal roofs have durability and eco-friendly benefits, shingles offer versatility and affordability with a classic look. To make the most sensible choice for YOUR home, consult with a professional roof replacement company for assistance in weighing your needs and budget with your design and environmental preferences.
Reach out to Keeney Home Services, Northeast Wisconsin’s favorite roofing expert, to discuss which roofing option is best suited to your climate, budget, and style preferences.
