Asphalt shingle roofing systems are the most common types used for residential homes. More and more, however, you might be noticing the surge in popularity that metal roofing has been experiencing. Part of the reason for its increase in popularity are the aesthetic options that are now available. Metal shingles and panels can now imitate materials such as tile, wood shake, slate, and asphalt. Due to the significance and the long-term nature of the investment we are discussing, it’s important to navigate the pros and cons of each material before you get started with hiring a professional roofing contractor.

Cost of Construction

Contrary to popular belief, metal roofing is not significantly more expensive than asphalt shingles. In fact, corrugated metal panels can often cost as much as twenty percent less per square foot than asphalt shingles. They do, however, require more accessories such as screws, ridge caps, and flashing. When you factor in the cost of these accessories, your metal roofing system will cost about the same as a shingle roof on an average roof. Then, you need to consider the longevity of the investment. Asphalt shingles often come with a ten to fifteen year warranty, where metal panel roofs tend to be more in the forty-year range. Metal roofs can actually last more than one hundred years, with proper maintenance. When you factor in the savings over time, a metal roof is definitely the smarter choice.

Additional Costs

If replacing your existing asphalt shingles with another asphalt roofing system, a cost not necessarily reflected in the initial quote would be that of removing and disposing of old shingles. With a metal roofing system, the new panels can be installed right over the top of an asphalt shingle roof. With this you save on labor and disposal costs. If your project is a new construction, such as a new garage or an addition on the home, metal roofing would be the sure winner cost-wise because an asphalt shingle roof would require a plywood base, further inflating the cost. The cost can also be affected by the complexity of the roof itself. If we’re looking at a simple roof with few or no valleys, metal paneling will be significantly cheaper and faster to install than asphalt shingles. If the roof is more complex, however, with multiple valleys and peaks, asphalt shingles are going to be much quicker to install and will thus cost less in labor than metal panels would. But it’s important even in these cases to remember the long-term savings that a metal roofing system can provide.

Other Pros and Cons

Metal roofing is light, energy efficient, and durable. Coming in a wide variety of formats and designs, this type of roofing system is a versatile and appealing product. When compared to asphalt shingles, metal wins in the categories of durability, longevity, variety, and energy efficiency. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, tend to have lower labor costs, promote uniformity with the neighboring houses (important if you live in a Maryland HOA community), and are easier if you’re into DIY projects.

There are pros and cons to both asphalt shingles and metal paneling roofing systems. Many factors come down to personal preference, but when it comes to cost effectiveness over time, metal roofing is the way to go. When you’re ready to schedule a consultation, give DC Generals a call today!