Cons Of Shingle Roofing
Shingle roofing is popular for the many reasons listed above, but there are some cons to consider.
Less Longevity than Metal
Shingles have a shorter lifecycle than their metal counterpart. Whereas metal roofing options can last 50-100 years, a shingle roof rarely lasts longer than 25 years. Here are the factors that cause shingle roofs to degrade vs. metal: before they hit 25 years, shingle roofs usually need at least some shingles replaced or repaired before a full-out roof replacement. Why? Because shingles damage easily, succumb to flaking, and are breeding grounds for algae, mold, and mildew.
Aesthetic Limitations
Shingle roofs can look neat and sophisticated, but they do not have the array of aesthetic options that metal roofing offers.
Its very difficult to dye a shingle or find one thats light in color. The asphalt limits the opportunity for vivid colors on shingle roofs. If you go the painting route, shingles will fade over time and get darker in the sun.
Heat Retention
Instead of refracting sun rays, shingle roofs absorb them because of the color and chemical makeup of the asphalt. This heat is usually transferred indoors, which can cause a spike in utilities if youre trying to maintain a cool environment. Additionally, asphalt is combustible, which can be detrimental in the case of house fires.
Non-Eco Friendly
Planning Your Metal Roofing Project
As you begin planning your roofing project, consider the following three tips to help make it a successful project:
- Determine what is going to be done with your old roofin some cases, you will not have to pay for the removal of the old roof, since it may be possible to install the metal roof on top of what is there.
- Check with your municipality/HOA before you buyas with any modification to the exterior of your home, you might violate local HOA statutes by installing a metal roof.
- Ask the roofing companies you have requested bids from how long their proposal is good for. Any number of factors in the metals market could cause the price to go up if you sit on the bid too long before giving the go-ahead.
Need Someone To Roof/re
Whether you pick asphalt shingles or metal roofing for your home, Maxx Roof LLC is here to meet all of your installation needs. We are a Denver roofing company that has been providing expert roofing solutions to the Denver metro area for years. Our technicians are highly trained, friendly, and professional in their conduct just the kind of people you want to work with in your home. Call today for a free, no obligation roof consultation with our experts.
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Why Is Labor More For Metal Roof Vs Shingles
Asphalt shingles need good installation too, of course, but its much simpler and faster to do than a metal roof lay em down, bang them in. The nailed-on aspect of asphalt is a budget-saver. Metal, on the other hand, is more precise, requires accurate measures, takes some special tools, and tends to require more industrial know-how especially in regions where hurricanes and wildfires may exist.
A metal roof can literally take two to three times more work to install than asphalt, and thats why its more costly on the install. Add in more dormers, skylights, funky angles, and other complexities, and the price goes higher still.
Metal Roof Vs Shingles: Heat And Environment
Contrary to popular belief, metal roofing is the cooler option in warm climates. This is because metal roofs have coatings on them that reflect much of the sunlight and solar radiation away from the house, making the home cooler. However, during winter, the effect has the opposite effect since some of the much-needed sunlight and heat is being reflected away from the home.
On the other hand, asphalt shingles absorb and transfer much of the suns heat to the attic. Thus, homes with shingles are generally warmer than those with metal roofing.
Metal roofing is also a pretty environmentally friendly option. The durability of metal roofs means that the amount of debris that ends up in landfills each year is relatively low. Also, most metal roofing material is recyclable, especially aluminum, due to its high scrap value. Thus, the amount of waste that makes it to the environment is minimal.
Unfortunately, the same canât be said about shingle roofs 11 million tonnes of shingles end up in landfills every year. This is because recycling asphalt shingles is extremely costly and, thus, not industry practice. In addition, asphalt shingles are made from oil products, contributing to the worldâs reliance on fossil fuels.
However, the environmental impact of manufacturing metal roofs and asphalt shingles is more or less the same.
Winner: Metal Roofing
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Functional Life Vs Aesthetic Life
There is a difference between the functional life and aesthetic life of an asphalt shingle roof.
Asphalt shingles are a temporary or disposable roof and they have two different life cycles. National studies define the functional life of most roofs at about 17 years. This is quite a bit different than the aesthetic life, which is closer to 5 to 7 years.
The aesthetic life is when the shingles are streaked and stained. The climate has weathered the roof where the shingles look like an old roof. Once they get to that point, even though the roof may continue to protect and perform against the weather, the roof looks like its on its last leg. The roof begins to detract from the homes overall appearance, curb appeal, and property value.
D Maintenance Of Shingle Roof Vs Metal Roof
Generally, repairs are much more difficult in metal roofs when compared to shingle roofs. Thats because the metal used is placed in sheets hence you must replace them in sheets. On the other hand, when damage happens to the shingle roof, the repair is less expensive and easier.
Another point that you should also note is that metal roofs require very little maintenance. In addition to that, the repair is far less frequent when you compare it to shingle repairs.
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Cost Of Metal Roofs Vs Shingles
Metal roofing costs between $5.50 to $14 per square foot installed vs. an asphalt shingle roof which costs between $3.50 and $7 per square foot installed. Compared to an asphalt roof on a 1,200 square foot single-story home costing $4,200 to 8,500, metal roofs cost $8,400 to $19,000+.
Many homeowners would instead install metal roofs that look like shingles for a more residential look. Other than metal roof cost lying at 2 to 3 times to cost of asphalt shingles, metal roofs are an infinitely better investment because of their long life and low maintenance. Most metal shingles are made of galvanized steel or aluminum, but some companies offer copper and zinc shingles too.
Metal Roofs Are More Eco
In this day and age, making eco-friendly choices is the responsibility of every homeowner. Sustainability is another common ground for shingles vs In fact, many real estates also value the sustainability value of a house. Metal roofs are more eco-friendly as they are largely made of recycled material and can be recycled, again and again.
With their reflective surface, metal roofs help conserve more energy. You can also choose from a range of coatings that help optimize the effectiveness of air conditioners and reduce carbon footprints. A major backstep for asphalt shingle roofs is that they need to be replaced more frequently than metal roofs and cannot be recycled. Moreover, the heavy reliance on petroleum for their manufacturing makes them an inferior choice when it comes to the environment.
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Asphalt Shingle Roofs Generally Are Easier To Install And Repair
The installation process is an important parameter for some homeowners who are on strict timelines. If you want a quick roof installed, shingles are the choice for you. They can be installed in a day or two. In some cases, they can also be installed on an existing layer. Metal roofing on the other hand takes more time because of the specialized installation system. However, there are some lightweight varieties of metal roofs that can be installed right over an existing roof and that may take lesser time. If you have to replace metal roofs, that may be a longer and more complex process because of the way the panels are attached.
The pros of metal roofs often overpower their cons making it an obvious choice for homeowners. However, it is advised to take advice from a professional for your particular home. Now that you know various distinguishing qualities of metal roofs vs shingles, its time to choose the right company to get a hassle-free installation.
Cost Of Aluminum Vs Steel Shingles
Its important to note that pricing will vary depending on the type of metal you want. Aluminum is a premium material, priced at about $4 per sq.ft.
Aluminum shingles are actually installed very rarely, and few manufacturers offer them. As a result, you will have less color and style options.
The two most reputable and commonly used companies are Interlock and Classic Metal Roofs.
Steel shingles are the most common. They cost less than aluminum, about $3.00 per square foot You will have a lot more style and color options, and there are many manufacturers to choose from.
Tamko manufactures the most budget-friendly, but great quality steel shingles. EDCO product lines are in the middle of the price range, while Matterhorn products are the most expensive.
Additionally, you will see a difference in price of metal shingles depending on the color you want.
Standard metal roofing colors can cost as low as $2.65/sq.ft, while premium, or two-tone colors start out at about $3.75/sq.ft. and can go up to $4.75/sq.ft.
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What Are The Disadvantages Of A Metal Roof
On the other hand, you may want to consider some of the drawbacks of having a metal roof on your property:
- Vulnerable to dents and chips: Hailstorms, falling branches and walking on it too often can dent a metal roof. Depending on your roof’s specific metal, the paint may also be vulnerable to chipping and fading.
- Expensive to install: Putting a metal roof on your house comes at a hefty price. Even though many factors can influence your roof’s cost, you may have to pay more than four times what you’d pay to install asphalt shingles.
- Limited qualified contractors: To install your metal roof correctly, you need to find a roofing specialist who has adequate experience working with metal. Unfortunately, its lack of popularity makes it more challenging to find a metal roofing contractor than an asphalt shingle one.
- Difficult to repair: Metal roofing is more complicated to replace than asphalt shingles because all the full-length panels are connected. Since it’s more challenging to walk on it, metal roof maintenance may be difficult.
- Noisy: You may hear rain or hail tapping on your metal roof throughout the day. Unless you like the sound of rain, you can install some extra insulation to fix the issue.
Labor Cost To Install Metal Roof
Labor costs to install a metal roof ranges from $3.50 to $12 per square foot, with most homeowners paying about $5 per square foot to install metal roofing. Labor comes out to between $3,000 to install an ordinary roof, and closer to $8,000 for more substantial, thicker, high-end materials. The cost of labor is around 3 to 5 times the rate of the materials alone.
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When Should Your Roof Valley Be Repaired
As the valley is such a vulnerable area of the roof, you should respond quickly to any signs that it may not be in the best condition. Its far more cost-effective, and less of a hassle, to have your roof valley fixed before a leak has developed.
Any of these signs may indicate that it is time to get your roof valley repaired:
- Curled shingles: If you have a closed-cut roof valley, it may have developed curled or raised shingles along the cut edge. Water may penetrate behind these shingles if this issue is not fixed.
- Bumps: Closed-cut, California and woven valleys may develop bumps or an uneven appearance, especially if your roof has laminate shingles. Its best to get these bumps fixed by getting open metal valleys installed.
- Loose granules: Larger amounts of water running down a closed cut valley can start to erode shingle granules. Unless your roof was just installed, loose granules need to be addressed.
- Leaks below the valley:A roof leak doesnt always appear directly below the penetration point. However, if you think theres a leak in your valley allowing water to enter into the attic below, its wise to get it checked right away.
- Missing shingles: If your valley pattern doesnt look quite right, shingles may be missing, and that is always a cause for concern.
Not sure if your roof needs attention? When in doubt, ask a roofing professional for their opinion on the condition of your roof and its valleys. You can find one through IKOs Roof Contractor Locator.
Does It Have A Weather
Due to the increased likelihood of installation errors, lack of weather resistance, and other factors, most manufacturers will not offer a weather-tight warranty on screw-down metal roofs.
The same doesnt go for standing seam roofs, though. More manufacturers have confidence in their products. Thus, SSMR will generally offer a weather-tight warranty in the scenario where certain weather conditions lead to your roof failing or leaks.
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A Installation Of Shingle Roof Vs Metal Roof
When it comes to installation, shingle roofing is much easier to install when compared to metal roofs. However, due to the weight of the shingles, the previous ones may need to be removed before installation of the new pieces.
But since the installation process is easier, the removal of the older shingles will essentially take up to a day depending on the size of the house. On the other hand, some of the metal roofing types are quite light. Meaning, you can easily install them on top of the previous roofing.
However, it will generally take longer to install a metal roof since you will need to add plywood. This acts as an insulation to reduce any noise. When the installation is done by a professional, you will not even hear the hailstorms or rain from inside the house. That is why its always a good idea to consult with a professional before installation.
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.
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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
Pros Of Metal Roofing
Metal roofing offers a huge array of color and style variations, enough to complement any home. There are products available to imitate non-metal materials, such as tile, panels even wood and asphalt.
Metal roofing tends to be light and easy to work with. Plus, its energy efficient, particularly in reducing energy consumption during the hot summer months, and made from recycled materials. Metal roofing can also last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.
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Metal Roofing Costs Vs Shingles
The costs of metal roofing versus the costs of asphalt shingles or other types of shingles are somewhat dependent on your location and the type of property that you have, along with your initial starting budget.
Also, you should keep in mind that metal roofing has a much higher resale value than some other types of roofing, so consider that when you are choosing what type of roof you want to install on your home.
If you are choosing between metal roofing and shingles, keep in mind that metal roofing can be a great choice, because it can pay for itself via energy efficiency.
A metal roof can result in decreased home cooling costs, and it also has a great resale value due to its reliability and longevity.
With a metal roof, you will most likely not have as much of a need for maintenance and repairs, and you will probably not need to replace it as quickly since metal roofing tends to be fairly low risk in regard to premature roof failures and the subsequent need for replacement.
Metal roofing also tends to have a positive resale value if you change your mind or want to replace your roof for aesthetic reasons.
The national average for metal roofing costs around $18,500, but the resale value can possibly offset some of the costs of the initial install.
The lifespan of a metal roof can last from 38 60 years.
