What is the advantage of a metal roof over shingles?

What is the advantage of a metal roof over shingles in 2021? Metal roofing and shingles are the most popular roofing materials used in most homes and commercial properties. For many years, asphalt shingles were the default choice for roofing, but in recent years, metal roofs have gained more popularity and become the mainstream roofing option.

Metal roofs are no longer only found in high-end homes or warehouses, but they are also found in conventional homes. Why? Metal roofs come with a host of advantages, including the following:

10 Advantages of metal roofing over shingles

1. Durability

As long as it is correctly installed, your metal roof will serve you for 40 to 70 years, if not longer. On the other hand, shingles typically last 15 to 20 years. As a petroleum product, asphalt shingles begin to deteriorate faster once exposed to heat and other weather elements like hail, high winds, and snow. This means that homeowners will have to replace their shingles more often than metal roofing.

2. Aesthetics

Aesthetics are based on individuals’ preferences; however, every property owner wants their structure to look its best. While shingles are available in a variety of colours, the options available are still limited. On the other hand, metal roofing comes in a vast range of styles, colours, and finishes. As such, homeowners have a wider choice for picking their desired look. Furthermore, unlike shingles which quickly start showing signs of aging, metal roofing retains its new and fresh looks for many years.

3. Eco-friendly

There is a global campaign for awareness on conserving the environment. Many homeowners across the country are embracing this cause. Consider metal roofing if you are looking to join the cause on environmental protection. Metal roofing is a better option than shingles because it comprises 20-60% recyclable material, which will be recycled at the end of its useful life. Contrarily, asphalt shingles are made from crude oil and chemicals and are not recyclable and will take decades to decompose once deposited in landfills.

4. Wind resistance

Most metal roofs have the feature of interlocking, which gives them better wind resistance. If you reside in an area with strong wind activity, it is a better option when compared to other roofing materials that rely on gravity to keep them in place.

5. Lightweight

As buildings age, it helps to have lightweight roofing materials. Lighter roofing means reduced structural movement, which is significant in areas prone to seismic activity. Metal roofing is the lightest roofing material available, which is beneficial in two ways. It puts less weight on your frames, and it is easier to install without causing any damage to your structure.

6. Variety

There are many varieties of metal roofing you can choose from. The various types of metal roofing differ in terms of materials and customisability. You can have your roof in tin, steel, copper, and aluminium and paint it whichever colour you like. As such, with metal roofing, you can go for a traditional look or a more contemporary look because you have control over the colour, size, and shape of your roof.

7. Energy efficiency

Metal roofing has a reflective coating and thermal breaks that cut summer cooling costs by up to 20% or even more. Their shiny surface reflects the sun’s glare and its heat away to keep your interior cool in the summer. The same metal roofing also has insulating properties that help keep you warm during winter. Moreover, their flat surface allows you to mount other energy-saving equipment like solar panels using clamps easily.

8. Fireproof

When compared to petroleum-based asphalt shingles, metal roofing is a better option in case of a fire. Homeowners with a metal roof will have lesser losses to deal with than those with shingles in the unfortunate event of a fire. If you reside in an area prone to wildfires, having metal roofing means that even if embers or hot ash lands on your roof, there is no risk of your property catching a fire.

9. Lower long-term cost

Installing metal roofing typically costs higher than asphalt shingles. But given that the shingles will require two or three replacements, metal roofing has a lower cost in the long run.

10. Higher property value

Because of the high cost of installing a metal roof and its longevity, it adds value to your property. Typically, property with metal roofing costs higher by up to 6% compared to that with shingles. Moreover, your property is much easier to sell with metal roofing, especially if it is in good condition.

Whether you are putting up a new home or replacing your existing roof, you can consider many roofing materials. Two of the most prominent are metal roofing and shingles. While both shingles and metal roofing have their pros and cons, metal roofing is the better option because it provides many advantages over its competition.