With the various roofing materials available in today's market, it can be hard to understand what each type offers and which is best for you and your home. With this said, metal roofing and asphalt shingles are two of the most popular options due to their unique features and benefits. In light of this, we've highlighted the difference between these roofing materials in four categories: durability, installation process, environmental impacts, and cost. Review these distinctions below and consider which you want for your home. After making this decision, contact a roofing company near you and schedule your roofing project today.

Durability

Metal roofing is the way to go if your main priority is durability. First, metal roofing is fire resistant, so it's a safer option in areas where wildfires and hot ashes are prevalent. Plus, this roofing option is weather-resistant. According to State Farm, metal roofs can withstand 140 miles per hour wind gusts, they're resistant to impact, as well as crack and corrosion-resistant if properly installed. In addition to high winds, this roof type will withstand extreme elements such as hail, snow, high heat, intense cold, and heavy rain. While considering these perks, it's essential to note that dents may be possible when debris, such as large tree branches, hit the roof during high winds and storms.

On the contrary, asphalt shingles are less durable. Mold and algae growth, cracks, and leaks are typical issues with this roofing option. However, these issues, commonly caused by excessive moisture, might not be a big concern if you live in dry conditions. A mild climate is often best for asphalt shingles. This factor is vital since the roofing material can contract in the cold and expand in the heat. These weather impacts can result in even more cracks and leaks on your roof's surface. With these negatives stated, asphalt shingle roofs commonly have more warranty coverage for fungus growth, material defect, and manufacturer error.

You should talk to your local roofing company about what they'd recommend. They have experience working in your particular climate, so they can tell you more about which material is best.

Installation Process

Metal roofs require a precise process for installation, making the entire task both strenuous and time-consuming. Highly skilled professionals must perform this installation process since the slightest errors are easily noticeable and decrease curb appeal. On average, a metal roof installation process will last anywhere from one to two weeks. In light of this, you should expect an extended installation process that might cost more.

A quick and easy installation process is possible with asphalt shingles. Your roofing company will only require basic tools and simple knowledge to complete the installation. This process lasts one or two days tops, meaning the installation will be quick and cost-effective.

Environmental Impacts

A metal roof is an environmentally friendly option. This roofing material is considered eco-friendly for a few reasons. First, a metal roof can easily be recycled, so you won't waste valuable materials when you have leftover pieces or damaged sections to dispose of after a roofing project. Additionally, metal roof materials are from previously recycled materials. For example, aluminum is a common component of this roofing material that's popularly used and reclaimed.

Asphalt shingles, while recyclable, are not recycled as often. With this considered, this roofing material is considered to be less environmentally friendly and has a more negative impact. Plus, this roof type requires replacement more often than a metal roof, meaning that it contributes to the landfill to a greater degree. This fact becomes even more concerning when considering that asphalt shingles are made primarily of petroleum-based products, which only intensifies the excessive use of fossil fuels.

Cost

A metal roof might not be the best option if you have a strict budget. This roofing option is known to be a little more pricey compared to an asphalt shingle roof. For example, a metal roof typically costs between $5,500 to $15,000 in total, according to our experts. More specifically, you should expect to pay between $120 to $900 for every 100 square feet. This cost difference depends on the style, color, and metal quality you install on your home. Plus, consider the more expensive installation bill explained above.

An asphalt shingle roof will be less expensive and cost-effective. This roofing option typically costs $5,000 to $8,500 for an entire installation, according to our professionals. In greater detail, asphalt shingles cost $100 to $200 per 100 square feet. Like a metal roof, these cost differentials are due to the various style, colors, and material quality.

As you can now understand, metal roofing and asphalt shingles vary in many ways. Review this list above to choose your perfect material, and contact our roofing company at Lion Exteriors and Construction to schedule your roofing project today.