Metal Roof vs. Asphalt: Which Is Best For Your Home?
When selecting the perfect roofing material for your home, you want to make sure you are making the right choice for your home. A huge investment and arguably the most important part of your home. At CK Steel, we understand how important it is to choose the right roofing option for residential homes. Our team of experienced contractors can help you decide between asphalt shingles and stone-coated metal roofing.
Asphalt Shingles
Traditional asphalt shingles have been around for many decades and remain a popular choice among homeowners. They last long and are cheaper to install compared to other roofing choices. Several colors and styles are available, and people generally consider them a good choice for residential buildings. In addition to improving your home’s curb appeal and lowering utility costs, a well-designed shingle roofing system will protect the structural integrity of your home.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
- Cost-Effective: If you are on a tight budget, asphalt shingle roofing may be the right choice for you. Generally, asphalt shingles are less expensive both in materials and installation.
- Variety: You can customize shingle patterns and styles to match your home’s exterior.
- Ease of Installation and Repair: Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install and repair. If you lose a few shingles over time, fixes are usually simple and quick.
- Low Maintenance: If properly installed, asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance.
Depending on the quality of the material and weather conditions, they have an average lifespan of between 15-30 years. Asphalt shingles are cheaper but less durable than stone-coated metal. Extreme weather may damage asphalt shingles, so it is important to keep weather conditions in mind.
Stone-Coated Metal Roofing: Durable and Energy-Efficient
Stone-coated metal roofing is a newer development that merges the robustness of metal with the visual allure of conventional roofing substances. The combination of metal and stone coating creates a roof that can withstand more extreme weather conditions, including thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. Unlike asphalt shingles, stone-coated metal roofing is less prone to damage from these weather events.
Benefits of Stone-Coated Steel Roofing
- Durability: One of the most significant advantages of stone-coated metal roofing is its durability. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, hail, and high winds.
- Fire Resistance: It is also fire resistant which adds an extra layer of safety to your property. This feature can give homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their roofs can withstand potential fire hazards.
- Longevity: These roofs can last up to 50 years or more, nearly double the lifespan of traditional asphalt shingles.
- Visual Appeal: Metal roofing coated with stone can replicate the appearance of asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, or even clay tiles, providing flexibility in style.
The primary drawback of stone-coated metal roofing is the cost. It is typically more expensive than asphalt shingles in terms of both materials and installation. However, the long-term savings in maintenance and energy efficiency can offset the initial investment. Additionally, stone-coated metal roofing offers several other benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.
Why Metal Roofs Are Ideal For Midwest Climates
Climate is a key determinant when choosing between metal roofing or asphalt roofing. Asphalt shingles are still durable enough to withstand most climates, however, if you are looking for a more weather-resistant material for your roof, stone-coated metal is the way to go. The durability and strength of metal make it highly resistant to the harsh elements that often plague this region. Intense heat waves, heavy snowfall, hailstorms, and windstorms are no match for metal roofs.
Another benefit of metal roofs in this region is their energy efficiency. Metal reflects heat, making the inside of the house cooler in the summer. This can lead to significant savings on air conditioning costs and create a more comfortable living environment.
Lastly, metal roofs require minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. They do not rot, crack, or warp, and they are not susceptible to mold or insect damage. This means homeowners can save both time and money on repairs and replacements.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Both asphalt shingle roofing and metal roofing are viable options, however, the right contractor will make all of the difference. Employing the best shingles won’t result in a durable roof if the roofer lacks expertise.
A reputable contractor will have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect roof for your home. Additionally, a reliable contractor will ensure that the installation is done correctly, guaranteeing the longevity and durability of your new roof.
At CK Steel, we have a team of qualified contractors who bring a ton of experience to the table, making sure everything gets done just right. If you are looking for roofing contractors near Iowa and Nebraska, contact CK Steel for a roofing estimate.