Is your roof over 20 years old? Is it starting to show its age and needing regular repairs? If so, you probably own one of the 2.3 million homes that are going to need a new roof in the next decade.
Many homeowners get caught in a dilemma between a metal roof vs shingles. It’s not an easy choice, especially when you take into account the harsh winter weather in Champaign, Illinois. You need to choose a material that can stand up to the climate and last for many years to come.
Let’s look in more detail at the pros and cons of metal and shingle roofs, so you can make the best choice for your home.
What Is a Metal Roof?
There are two types of metal roofs – standing seam and metal shingles.
Standing seam metal roofs are very watertight, lightweight, and fast to install. Metal roof shingles come in a huge variety of finishes that mimic other materials.
Pros of Metal Roofs
Many people like the striking appearance of a standing seam metal roof. They have gone from cutting-edge architectural design to a readily available finish in the last several years. They are very quick to install and some can be installed over existing roofing materials.
Stamped metal shingles allow you the benefits of a metal roof while retaining the character of a traditional roof. They’re available in styles that mimic asphalt, wood shake, slate, and clay/concrete tiles.
Metal roofs are highly durable. On average, they should last at least 40 years which is more than many asphalt roofs. They are impervious to rot and insects and snow and ice simply slide off.
Many people worry that metal roofs will be noisy. But modern metal roofs with excellent insulation are no noisier than any other type of roofing material.
Cons of Metal Roofs
The big drawback is that the cost of a metal roof vs a shingle one is usually significantly higher. The flip side is that they can last much longer. Also, some insurers will give homes with metal roofs a discount in wildfire or hail-prone areas.
Although metal roofs do well in most weather conditions, severe hail can dent them. This is very difficult to repair and looks unsightly. But choosing stronger metals can reduce the risk of this happening.
What Is a Shingle Roof?
A shingle roof is a traditional type of roof, made using roofing shingles. They can be made from wood, slate, plastic, cement, and clay. But by far the most common in the US is asphalt.
Asphalt shingles are easy to work with and come in a huge range of colors. There are two main types – regular shingles and dimensional shingles.
Roofs built from regular asphalt shingles typically have a lifespan of around 20-30 years with good maintenance. Dimensional shingles can last over 50 years. Look for a company that offers a 50-year warranty on their asphalt roofs.
Dimensional roof shingles are laminated, or double-bonded. This means they are able to withstand much higher winds than regular shingles. This makes them perfect for those harsh Illinois and Indiana winters.
Pros of Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs typically cost less than metal roofs. Although dimensional shingles are more expensive, their lifespan is on par with a metal roof. This makes them an attractive option for anyone who wants to retain the traditional look of an asphalt roof.
Asphalt roofs are typically low maintenance. Regularly inspect them from ground level to check for any missing or broken shingles. Keep the gutters clean and keep them free from falling branches and debris.
Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install. Depending on the size of the roof, it may only take three days to install a new roof.
Cons of Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles can be recycled, but currently, only 1 million tons are recycled back into road pavement. The remaining 12 million tons are sent to landfills. On the other hand, metal roofs are easier to recycle.
If you choose a cheaper, non-laminated asphalt shingle, they are prone to damage. They can only withstand winds of up to 60mph, which may not cut it in the depths of the Illinois winter. However, using higher-quality shingles can overcome this issue.
Cost of Metal vs Shingle Roof
For most people, the deciding factor when choosing metal vs shingle roofing is cost.
For an average, 2,200 sq.-ft. house, basic asphalt roofing will cost around $2,500. At the other end of the scale, the same sized house in the top of the range copper would cost $25,000. However, there are lots of different options in between.
The only way to make an accurate comparison is to get quotes from local contractors for both materials. Talk to them about financing options that can help you to manage the cost.
The verdict on the cost of a metal roof vs shingles? It depends on the option you choose, but asphalt may just edge it.
Metal Roof vs Shingles: The Winner Is…
The battle of metal roof vs shingles usually comes down to cost. Metal roofs cost more but usually last longer. But if you choose a high-quality asphalt roof, you may find there’s not much difference in lifespan.
At Freeman Exteriors, we’d be happy to guide you through the metal roof vs shingle roof dilemma! Our highly experienced teams have been repairing and replacing roofs in Danville and Champaign, IL for many years. We pledge to provide the highest standards of quality and workmanship on every project.
Call the flat roof pros at Freeman Exteriors today to discuss your requirements at 217-355-5447. Alternatively, send us a message online.
