Are Metal Roofs More Expensive
Whether one is planning to have their new homes made, over their existing roof needs a makeover, there exist a lot of materials available to use. But no matter the roof style that one considers, having Metal roofs can be more attractive, these roofs will serve you for a long time, they need minimal maintenance and could offer energy efficiency. One can consider making their choices from galvanized steel, copper, aluminum, and zinc.
When you consider roofing your home, there are a lot of things that one needs to think about. The installation, costs, style, and materials. When weighing your options, it is ideal to consider a roofing system that can provide you the best returns on your investment. One of the best alternatives to traditional asphalt shingles is the metal roofing system.
But the key concern here however is, are the metal roofs more expensive? Of course, metal roofs can be as much as two or three times more expensive than the other materials used in roofing. Of course, metal roofs will last longer and this makes the sense of it costing that expensive. Investing in the metal roof will give you that sense of staying in your home longer while enjoying the cost benefits.
Metal Roofing Cost Vs Premium Materials
Since metal is considered a high-end material, it makes sense to compare its cost to other premium roofs, such as cedar shingles, slate, synthetic slate, clay and concrete tile.
| Roofing Material | |
|---|---|
| $7 14 | 20 40 years |
Looking at the price difference vs benefits derived from high-end roofs, it is clear that a metal roof offers the best value.
Pros & Cons Of Metal Vs Asphalt Shingle Roofs
When it comes to these two materials, there are categories in which one or the other is clearly the best choice. But, there are also categories in which the choice comes down to preference.
The following guide addresses the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing in general versus three-tab asphalt shingles. This chart outlines the best options for major considerations and uses.
Which is Better: Metal or Shingle Roof?
| Metal is best for |
|---|
- Most builders stick with standard colors, textures and shades because they are widely available and low-cost.
Metal
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What Are The Disadvantages Of A Metal Roof
Before deciding to have metal roofing for your home, here are the possible drawbacks you need to consider.
- It creates noisy sounds
You should know that a metal roof could be noisy, especially if its beneath a tile roof or thick slate during hailstorms and rainstorms. However, the idea of noise may vary on the construction. It can be controlled and prevented if you use quality materials.
- Prone to dents
You should be open to the possibility that metal roofing will leave a dent. When there is heavy hail, theres a big chance that your roof could get dents most especially if the roof is made of a soft metal like aluminum or copper.
Which Metal Roof Is Right For You
Each metal roofing type has its own set of components and accessories, which are required for the system to function properly and not leak. These accessories are similar in nature, but differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, and from one type system to another.
For example, standing seam requires the use of Z-bar flashing between the ribs, when you do a head wall flashing or a ridge cap, and on pretty much any square penetration in the roof.
Metal shingles do not need these as they are flat in nature and do not have protruding ribs. A tile system has its own flashing that follows the barrel profile of the tiles.
If you are not sure which metal roof is right for you consider these tips:
1. Most homeowners looking to install their first metal roof usually select metal shingles. Their greatest advantage is the tremendous variety of colors and styles available. Many are designed to replicate the look of cedar wood, or architectural asphalt shingles. They are also a lot more affordable compared to standing seam roofing or stone coated metal tile.
2. If you are on an extremely tight budget, but still want to the advantages of metal roof, go for a high quality corrugated metal panel system, or low-end interlocking metal shingles.
3. If you want a high-end contemporary look, standing seam panels are your best bet. They are also ideal for homeowners who are interested in installing solar panels on their roof.
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Galvalume Metal Roofing Prices
Galvalume metal costs $0.75 to $2.50 per square foot and starts at $5.50 per square foot installed. Galvalume is a combination of steel, aluminum, zinc, and silicone. A wide range of color options is available.
Galvalume metal roof panels typically last around 60 years however, they have a propensity to completely degrade when in contact with other metals like copper or iron, or other building materials like concrete, brick, or the treated wood found in decks. Also, unless treated with KJynar coatings, galvalumes finish can fade in color or develop a buildup of a chalk-like residue, as well as oil canning, which changes the look of the metal.
So Should You Get A Metal Roof Or Asphalt Shingle
Only you know if its a great choice for your housing style or your region, but we think theres a case for metal roofs in nearly every town in North America.
If youre planning on selling your home in the next five to 10 years, youll make up to 6% more on resale value with a metal roof versus an asphalt roof. Granted, if youre in a windstorm or wildfire region, your roof needs to stay intact that long for that to compute, but having a metal roof is a great step in that direction.
But all we can say about metal roofs and their cost effectiveness is that you really do get what you pay for. With pro installation, a high-quality metal roof is conceivably expected to last over 60 years Thats 35 to 60 years of reduced energy costs, potential energy savings, and low maintenance. You can bet that adds up, too.
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Infographic: Is A Metal Roof Heavier Than Shingles
Welcome to the third of a seven-part series on the most common questions homeowners have about metal roofing versus asphalt shingles. The questions covered are as follows:
5. Is a metal roof more hot in the summer than asphalt shingles?
6. Is a metal roof fireproof?
7. Is a metal roof just for agricultural buildings and not for residential?
Disclaimer: Obviously A.B. Martin believes in the benefits of using metal roofing, or we wouldnt be manufacturing it. But we do sell asphalt shingles too. These articles attempt to make a fair comparison between asphalt shingles and metal roofing. If you decide asphalt shingles are better for your needs, we stock Tamkos 30-year Heritage Shingles that have the best warranty on the market.
What Factors Affect The Cost Of A Re
The geographic region, eave height, and complexity of the roof are all variables that impact the cost of roof replacement. But beyond that, product selection, aesthetics, and installation costs are also dominant factors.
Product Type: The broad type of product selected and the family of products within that category significantly impact the cost of any roofing project. So while the first tier decision might be metal or shingles, the second tier decisions include the thickness of the product and style/type of product.
For example, there are two predominant types of metal roofing: concealed fastener and exposed fastener panels. The product and installation costs vary significantly between the two styles. So while exposed fastener panels on straight gable roofs with low eave heights might be priced comparative to asphalt shingles, a concealed fastener system on a two-story house with a complex roof plan might be much more costly.
Aesthetics: Another critical factor in pricing considerations is aesthetics. Metal roofs come in a wide range of finishes and styles. You can even choose a metal roof that looks like slate, shake, or tile and, as Todd Miller points out in this article, those styles can be a great way to enhance a home immediately through increased beauty as well as the high end value implication of an upscale home.
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Need An Expert For Your Roofing Project
The Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Shingles decision is a big one and one that will affect your home for decades to come. This decision requires some careful consideration and understanding of what each material will provide for you in the long run.
Whether youre interested in the energy efficiency of a metal roof or the classic design of a shingle roof, trust Roof Crafters for your roof replacement. We specialize in both metal and asphalt shingle roof replacements and use only the best products on the market. When you choose Roof Crafters for all your roofing needs, you can rely on us to get it right the first time around! We are happy to answer any questions regarding your roof and make sure that you are completely satisfied with your installation. For more information about our services or to schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our Roof Crafters experts today, call or visit us online.
Installing A Metal Roof Over Shingles
If you currently have an asphalt roof and need to replace it, you may have an option of installing a metal roof over shingles. This will enable you to save money on tear-off, which can be as much as $1,200-3,000. Its best to speak with your roofer about this, because it may not be recommended depending on your roof structure, ventilation, and other factors.
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Does An Asphalt Shingle Roof Or A Metal Roof Last Longer
The lifespan of a roof is how many years you can expect to get out of it. When your roof is properly installed and adequately ventilated, itll get as close as possible to the manufacturers specified lifespan.
With that in mind, a metal roof is going to last longer than an asphalt roof. For example, a dimensional shingle roof has a lifespan of 30 years while a standing-seam metal roof has a lifespan of 50 years.
Is the lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof or a metal roof right for your situation?
You already know that a metal roof is going to live longer than an asphalt roof. Be aware, for some this 20-year difference may not be a big deal. Especially if theyre not in their forever home.
However, if youre in your forever home and want to put a roof on and forget about it, a metal roof may be right for you.
When investing in a quality roof, you expect to get the most out of it. Check out this article on how to get the most out of your roof replacement to truly maximize the life of your roof.
Metal Roof Vs Shingle Roofing
Metal and asphalt shingles are two common roofing materials in the United States. If you need a new roof, consider whether you want a metal roof replacement or a shingle roof replacement. You can use this complete guide to metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles to help you decide which one is better for your budget and design preferences.
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Metal Roofing Vs Shingle Roofing: Which Material Should You Choose
Metal roofing and shingle roofing are both viable options to choose for your next roofing project, but there are distinct benefits, drawbacks, and differences to know of before you buy.
If youre in the market for a new roof, you might be questioning the type of roof that will work best for you and your home or building. And while its great to have so many options, such as asphalt shingles, metal, wood, tile, or concrete, it can also be overwhelming to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of each type of roofing material.
Luckily, theres not just one answer for every building, which gives you the freedom to discover the available options, ask any and all questions, and finally make a choice based on factual research.
Here at Sheffield Metals, we think its important to give an honest comparison of everything you need to know about metal roofing systems and asphalt shingle roofing so the decision is easier for you. In this article, expect to learn about:
- The advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing
- The advantages and disadvantages of asphalt shingles
- Important considerations to keep in mind before you choose
Cost Vs Lifespan Of Materials
Asphalt shingles can cost, on average, as little as $1 per square foot in materials. The installation is typically somewhat labor intensive, but installers can put it on in large sheets that cover as much as 100 square feet at a time. Still, the installation is the bulk of the cost of replacing your roof with asphalt shingles. The job for an average family home of 2,000 square feet costs around $8,000. It could vary slightly, depending on materials, labor, and the architecture of the home. If weather or any other adverse scenario does not damage the roof, it could last up to 20 years.
Metal shingles vary widely in cost. Galvanized steel is one of the most affordable options, while copper is the most expensive commonly used material. The lower end of cost-per-square-foot for a metal shingle roof is about $7 per square foot. However, that includes installation. Additionally, this higher cost up front buys you another 30 years of roof-life on average compared to asphalt shingles. Thats 50-plus years compared with 20 years or less.
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Metal Roof Vs Shingles: Durability
Roof fixes and replacements are some of the most expensive homeowner repairs. The more durable the roof, the better your chances of warding these off. In areas with extreme weather especially, the roof type you choose is crucial.
Constant thermal cycling weathers asphalt shingles, reducing their lifespan. Because asphalt is absorptive, water can enter, freeze and dry, causing its structure to break down.
Metal roofs, however, are non-absorptive. Plus, theyre engineered and installed with fastening clips or slotted screw holes that allow for thermal movement of the metal with temperature changes without breaking down over time, according to Classic Metal Roofing Systems President Todd E. Miller. That means that in any climate, metal roofs have an average lifespan of 50 to 70 years, versus 20 to 25 years for asphalt shingles.
Winner: Metal roofing.
Disadvantages Of Choosing Metal Roofing
Higher One-Time Cost Its true, metal roofing is more expensive than shingle roofing as a one-time cost. In addition to the higher cost of materials, there also could be a higher price point for labor and the equipment needed to complete the job, though its dependent on where the installers are getting the metal panels.
Limited Qualified Contractors Finding a qualified and experienced metal roofing contractor or installer will make or break an installation, especially since nearly all potential problems with metal roofing stem from some kind of installer error. When compared to shingle roofing installers, there are significantly fewer installers who are equipped and skilled at installing metal roofing.
More Labor Intensive Metal roofing is a precision installation that is much less forgiving than a shingle roof installation. There is virtually zero room to make errors, which is why metal roofing must be installed by a trained craftsperson. This typically means its a little more of a labor-intensive process that could take up more time.
Municipality Issues There are some communities or Home Owners Associations that do not allow metal roofing to be installed on a new or existing home within its jurisdiction. Common reasons for the ban:
- Metal is often thought of as looking industrial
- Inconsistent or goes against the look of a neighborhood
- Can have high-glare issues
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Metal Roof Cost Vs Asphalt Roof Cost
A new roof is always going to be an investment. No matter which type of roof you choose, its not going to be cheap.
With that in mind, an asphalt roof will always be more affordable than a metal roof. This is mainly because metal panels cost more than asphalt shingles. But it also requires more skill and labor to install a metal roof.
The real question is, How much more does a metal roof cost compared to an asphalt roof?
You can expect the cost of a metal roof to be about double or triple the cost of an asphalt roof.
For example, the 3 types of asphalt shingles cost:
You can expect a standing seam metal roof to be around triple the price per square foot then the prices above.
These numbers aren’t exact because of all the different factors that impact the cost of a new roof. But they do give you an idea of the budget you’ll need.
For an even better idea of how much both types cost based on your own roofs square footage, check out our Roofing Calculator.
Your Warranty Options For An Asphalt Shingle Roof Vs A Metal Roof
A warranty is in place to protect you and your roof from any future problems. You should have a couple of warranties on the materials and the contractors workmanship when you get a new roof.
Be aware, the workmanship warranty will depend on the local roofing contractor you hire. However, the warranty you get on the materials vary.
Asphalt shingles come out of the package with a warranty. For example, a dimensional asphalt shingle comes with a 30-year warranty. Be aware, this warranty is only on the materials and not the workmanship.
However, if you use all of one manufacturers roofing components instead of mixing and matching from other companies, you can qualify to get the enhanced warranty. Once you register your roof with the manufacturer, the enhanced warranty covers your roof for the next 50 years.
Metal roof panels dont give you an opportunity to get an enhanced warranty. But they do come with a 30-year paint warranty that covers the protective coating on the metal panels.
Which roof offers better warranties?
An asphalt roof comes with more warranties from a manufacturer. Youll also have the opportunity to get the enhanced warranty.
Be aware, a workmanship warranty is just as important as a warranty on the materials. To learn more about your warranty options, read this article on what roof warranties cover.
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