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Pros and Cons of Asphalt and Metal Roofing

The materials you select for your residential or commercial roofing project will significantly influence the look, feel, and cost when building a new roof or refreshing an old one. Your final decision will also impact your energy and long-term maintenance expenses. Let’s compare two popular roofing options and review the advantages and disadvantages of both asphalt and metal roofing.

Asphalt Shingles typically come in sheets, stacks, or rolls. They are primarily uniform in design and composition, consisting of ceramic granular upper surface and smooth asphalt layering over a fiberglass base. Asphalt shingles are typically nailed onto wooden-framed roofing structures, layered, and staggered upward from the lowest point on a sloped roof. Because the materials in the shingles are inexpensive and the cost of manufacturing them is low, shingles are the most economical option for roof construction and replacement. They’re also the simplest to install and won’t require any particular skill or instruction to apply correctly; this is the most common roofing installation.

Metal Roofing consists of large flat sheets of metal available in several design categories, such as corrugated and flat seam metal roofing. Although manufacturing and installing flat-seam metal roofing costs can be higher, its interlocking seam construction makes it one of the best solutions available. Metal roofs typically require less upkeep but also cost more initially during construction. These roofs are strong and durable with no maintenance thanks to their interlocking seams and fasteners that secure the smooth metal surface to the roof frame. 

Metal Roofing Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Requires less maintenance
  • Trending style
  • Energy-efficient

Metal Roofing Cons:

  • Higher cost installation
  • Requires more expertise
  • Heavier material

Asphalt Roofing Pros:

  • Easily available
  • Most affordable
  • Cheaper installation
  • Requires minimal expertise
  • Moderate durability 

Asphalt Roofing Cons:

  • Not energy efficient
  • Not weather-resilient
  • Typically requires more repairs

In conclusion, when planning a residential or commercial roofing project, consider a roofing materials comparison, especially as you want to choose the right roof for your climate and your pocketbook. This article explained asphalt vs metal roofing, showing you the pros and cons. Whether you choose asphalt, metal roofing, or another roofing material altogether, Shamrock Roofing and Construction is highly trained, GAF-certified, and has an A+ rating with the BBB. Call today for a free estimate on your new or reroof project.