The roof is an important part of any structure. Property owners have a wide array of choices when it comes to their roofing setup.
Some prefer to go with metal roofing while others go with the traditional shingles. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each before making an investment.
This read will dive into both options to determine which one works best for your needs.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a prominent fixture is snow-friendly nations because of its advantages. This can be a roof made of steel, aluminum, copper, and/or zinc depending on which direction you go in. This is a solution that’s been around for generations and is well-regarded in various parts of the world.
Advantages of Metal Roofing
1) Long-Lasting
Metal roofing is well-regarded as being long-lasting and is one of the most durable solutions on the planet. It is not going to break down easily and will continue to last for as long as you want.
2) Fire-Resistant
Fires can be a problem and property owners want to stay as safe as possible. With the way metal is, it is not going to be prone to fires and is going to help keep it down if things go out of control.
3) Lightweight
Metal is a lighter material when compared to other options and that makes it a winner in the eyes of property owners. This can make it easier to handle, maintain, and install.
Disadvantages of Metal Roofing
1) Expensive
It is going to cost more per “square foot” in comparison to other options and that has to be considered. If you’re on a budget, this is going to play a role in whether or not you choose to go with metal roofing. Depending on the contractor, it’s going to sit somewhere in the $150-600 per 100 square feet range.
2) Dents
Metal roofing is also renowned for being prone to dents and marks. This can happen as soon as hail starts pouring down during the course of the day. It is damaging and can become an issue if something falls on the roof and causes a dent.
3) Noisy
Yes, metal roofing is noisier than its competitors and that’s something to keep in mind before investing.
Imagine taking a can and pouring water over it. There’s going to be a certain noise to it right? Well, this is the same noise you’re going to hear when it starts to pour down in the middle of spring. This can be a problem for some property owners.
Shingles
Shingles are a “traditional” roofing material and consist of asphalt and remain a sought-after solution around the world.
In general, these shingles are made with the help of an asphalt-saturated base (i.e. fiberglass + organic materials) including ceramic, quartz, stone, or mica.
Advantages of Shingles
1) Easy to Install
Since these are lightweight and easy to cut, they don’t take up a lot of time for those on a deadline. You’re able to have the roof put in as soon as you want.
2) Customizable
Shingles are customizable meaning you are able to work with different shapes, colors, and sizes making it a great fit for those who don’t want the status quo.
Disadvantages of Shingles
1) Breaks Easily
Shingles tend to break easily if there is a hail storm because each piece is prone to damage. This can lead to excessive wear and tear that’s undesirable.
2) Moisture Gets Trapped
One of the reasons shingles aren’t admired in snow-friendly countries has to do with moisture-related issues. The moisture tends to creep underneath the material and cause damage. This is why it’s important to consider this factor before investing in shingles.
Final Thoughts
In the end, both metal roofing and shingles remain viable options based on your preferences.
What are you looking to get? What is your current budget? Where do you live? All of these questions are going to weigh into your decision and remain an important part of the ongoing deliberations. Think about these factors and then make a final decision.