Is Metal Roofing Better Than Asphalt Shingles?

Choosing the right roofing is a key decision that every homeowner faces. It affects the value of the building, durability and, of course, aesthetics. The two most popular options in the northeastern United States are metal roofing and asphalt shingles. This article provides an objective consideration of the actual advantages and disadvantages of each option. The analysis will include references to well-known brands such as GAF, Owens Corning and CertainTeed. Comparing manufacturers’ promises with actual performance, we will examine factors such as durability, weight, the material’s ability to retain color, resistance to microorganisms and cost. Our goal is to help homeowners make the most informed decision possible.

Durability and Lifespan

One of the most important aspects we should look at when choosing a roofing material is its durability and expected lifespan. Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice in the US, mainly because of their affordability and ease of installation. Leading manufacturers such as GAF, Owens Corning and CertainTeed offer very attractive warranties of up to 50 years. In practice, however, things are a bit different, as asphalt shingles typically last between 15 and 30 years, depending on environmental conditions, quality of installation and practiced maintenance.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, has a much longer lifespan. Metal roofs made of steel or aluminum coated with Kynar 500, a high-performance polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resin, typically last 50 to 70 years or more. Kynar 500 coatings have exceptional resistance to fading, chalking and corrosion, making metal roofs capable of maintaining their appearance and structural integrity for decades. This longevity often means that a metal roof may be the last roof installed on a building.

Weather Resistance and Performance

Asphalt shingles are much more susceptible to damage from harsh weather conditions. High winds, hail and drastic temperature fluctuations over time cause cracking, curling or loss of granules. Standard asphalt shingles, for example, can withstand winds up to 60 miles per hour, while premium products show resistance up to about 110 miles per hour.

Here the huge advantage of metal roofs is revealed. They are incomparably more durable and offer excellent performance in harsh weather conditions. They can withstand winds of up to 140 miles per hour and show great resistance to damage such as hailstones or the heavy impact of a falling branch, due to the strength of metals such as steel and aluminum. In addition, metal roofing drains snow and ice much better than asphalt shingles, reducing the risk of ice dams and related damage.

Weight Considerations

The weight of roofing materials not only affects the ease of installation, but when choosing the right covering, it must be taken into account, because of the structural requirements of buildings. Asphalt shingles weigh between 100 and 200 pounds per square (100 square feet). This relatively light weight makes them suitable for installation on most residential structures, without the need for additional support.

Metal coverings are even lighter. Their weight ranges from 50 to 150 pounds per square, depending on the type of metal they are made of and their thickness. Aluminum roofs are on the lighter end of the spectrum, while steel roofs are slightly heavier. The lighter weight of metal roofing reduces the structural load on the house, which is very beneficial when installing especially in seismic zones.

Aesthetics and Color Durability

Asphalt shingles are available on the market in a very wide range of colors and styles, including designs that mimic the look of wooden tiles or slate. However, they can fade over time, due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and other environmental factors. The granules with which the surface is coated, which provide color and protect the asphalt layer underneath, wear away, leading to a less vibrant appearance.

Metal roofs coated with Kynar 500 perform well in terms of color retention. The PVDF coating is resistant to UV degradation, so the color remains unchanged for decades. Manufacturers typically offer warranties against fading and chalking for up to 30 years. In addition, metal roofing is also available in a wide variety of styles, including standing seam panels and metal shingles, providing aesthetic versatility to match most architectural designs.

Resistance to Microorganisms

The appearance of moisture can lead to the development of algae and mold on roofing materials, affecting both aesthetics and durability. Asphalt shingles, especially in humid climates, are susceptible to algae growth, which manifests itself as dark streaks on the roof surface. Some manufacturers offer “algae-resistant” asphalt shingles containing copper granules. However, this is a solution that only postpones the potential development of microorganisms.

Metal coverings are inherently resistant to such problems. The material’s non-porous surface does not retain moisture, which prevents the growth of algae and mold. This fact reduces maintenance requirements and helps preserve the appearance and durability of the roof throughout its lifespan.

Energy Efficiency

An important advantage of metal roofs is that they reflect the sun’s radiant heat, reducing cooling costs by up to 25% during hot summers. The reflective properties of metal roofing help keep the house cooler by minimizing its heat absorption. The opposite is true of asphalt shingles, which tend to absorb heat, increasing a building’s cooling load. Some “cool roofs” made of asphalt shingles, designed to reflect more sunlight, very rarely match the energy efficiency of metal roofs.

Environmental Impact

From an environmental standpoint, metal roofing is more sustainable. Metal roofs are made from renewable resources, making the metal recyclable at the end of its long life. Asphalt shingles are a major contributor to large amounts of non-recyclable waste in landfills – thousands of tons of them are discarded each year in the United States. While asphalt shingle recycling programs exist, they are not as widespread or efficient as metal recycling.

Cost Comparison

A very important factor for homeowners is cost. In general, asphalt shingles are more affordable than metal roofing. The average cost of installing asphalt shingles ranges from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, resulting in a cost of $7,000 to $11,000 for a 2,000-square-foot roof. Metal roofing is initially more expensive, as its cost ranges from $9 to $14 per square foot. This means that a metal roof of the same area will cost between $16,000 and $28,000.

However, given the longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs of metal roofing, the investment may prove more worthwhile in the long run. Additionally, metal roofs increase a home’s resale value and often lead to lower insurance premiums due to their durability and fire resistance.

Installation and Maintenance

Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install, and because of their popularity, most roofing contractors have experience with them. However, improper installation can lead to serious problems, such as leaks or shingles pulling away when exposed to winds. Asphalt roofs also require regular maintenance, such as inspections and necessary repairs to damaged shingles.

Installing metal roofing is a bit more demanding and requires hiring skilled contractors familiar with the material and techniques. Although the installation process is more complex and time-consuming, metal roofs require minimal maintenance during use. Occasional inspections and cleaning are usually completely sufficient to keep the roof in optimal condition.

Situations Favoring Metal Roofing

Metal roofing may be the better choice in several scenarios:

• Longevity Priority: If you plan to stay in your home for many years and prefer not to deal with roof replacements, metal roofing’s extended lifespan is advantageous.
• Harsh Weather Conditions: In areas prone to severe weather, such as strong winds, heavy snowfall, or hail, metal roofs offer superior protection.
• Energy Efficiency Goals: For homeowners aiming to reduce cooling costs and improve energy efficiency, metal roofing’s reflective properties are beneficial.
• Environmental Considerations: If sustainability is a priority, the recyclability and longevity of metal roofing align with eco-friendly practices.

Situations Favoring Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles may be more suitable in these cases:

• Budget Constraints: If upfront cost is a primary concern, asphalt shingles offer a more affordable roofing solution.
• Short-Term Ownership: For homeowners planning to sell their property in the near future, the lower initial investment in asphalt shingles may be more practical.
• Aesthetic Preference: If the desired architectural style aligns better with the look of asphalt shingles, especially in neighborhoods where this is the standard, they may be the preferred choice.

Technical Details and Material Properties

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles consist of a fiberglass mat base coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. The quality of asphalt shingles depends on factors like the thickness of the shingle, the type of asphalt used, and the granule composition. Architectural shingles, for example, are thicker and offer better durability and wind resistance than three-tab shingles.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing includes steel and aluminum, often coated with protective layers. Steel roofs are usually galvanized or electroplated with zinc or a zinc-aluminum alloy, respectively, to prevent rusting. The application of Kynar 500 coating provides an additional layer of protection and color stability. Aluminum roofing is naturally corrosion resistant and lightweight, making it ideal for coastal environments.

The Kynar 500 coating is applied through a process called coil coating, where the paint is baked onto the metal at high temperatures. This creates a durable finish that resists fading, chalking, and peeling. The PVDF resin in Kynar 500 provides excellent chemical resistance and UV stability.

Conclusion

Determining whether metal roofing is more suitable than asphalt shingles depends on individual needs, priorities and prevailing circumstances. Metal roofs offer excellent durability, longevity, weather resistance and energy efficiency, but their choice involves a larger investment at the outset, including specialized installation. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are initially cheaper and widely available, but are much less durable and require much more maintenance.

In order to make an informed decision, it is important to consider key factors such as budget, planned length of time in the building, environmental conditions and aesthetic preferences. While both roofing options have their advantages, metal roofing tends to be a better choice for homeowners looking for a long-term, low-maintenance solution with the added benefits of energy efficiency and environmental care.