Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofing for Minnesota Homes
Given our state's weather patterns, choosing the right roofing material for your Minnesota home is crucial. From winds to ice dams, you need performance you can trust!
Tony's Lifetime Exteriors is the premier local roofer serving the Sauk Rapids area. We have created this quick guide on the difference between asphalt shingles and metal roofing.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles were first used in 1903 and are one of the most used roofing materials out there. They are typically made from ceramic granules layered over a fiberglass base with a smooth asphalt coating for extra protection.
There are several reasons why they are a great option, including affordability, ease of installation, availability, and durability.
Affordability
One of the primary bonuses of asphalt shingles is their cost-effectiveness. The materials are inexpensive, and manufacturing costs are low, making them an economical choice regardless of property size or shape.
Ease of Installation
Asphalt shingles are straightforward to install, requiring no special skills or tools. Any contractor can efficiently work with them, reducing your labor costs.
Availability
Asphalt shingles are widely available and come in various styles and colors, empowering property owners to be more flexible and create unique design aesthetics that truly reflect their style.
Durability
As with all things, with proper care, shingles can last between 15 and 30 years, which is highly attractive based on their price point.
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Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles aren't for everybody, and there are some scenarios where they might not be the best fit, so let's go over a few of their drawbacks.
Low Snow Retention
Minnesota's harsh winters can be challenging for asphalt shingles, as they don't retain snow well, leading to potential leaks and damage.
Weather Susceptibility
While asphalt shingles are engineered with a waterproof layer, extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, and hail can damage asphalt more easily than metal.
Low Energy Savings
Unlike some other roofing materials, asphalt shingles do not provide energy-saving benefits. However, you can increase it by adding enhanced insulation and proper ventilation.
What Is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing comes in large flat sheets and is often folded longitudinally into patterns like corrugated metals or flat-seam metal roofing.
Metal roofing offers an interlocking seam design that provides strength, unmatched durability, and some fantastic other benefits.
Longevity
Metal roofs are known for their exceptional lifespan, often lasting up to 50 years or longer with the right care. Ultimately, it comes down to the climate, weather, ventilation, and installation, but they are notorious for outlasting most other roofing materials.
Low Maintenance
Metal roofs require minimal upkeep. In most cases, cleaning and a regular inspection for scratches, damage, or leaks are enough.
Aesthetic Appeal
Metal roofing is no longer merely for industrial and commercial buildings. It is considered chic, growing in popularity, and adding a modern touch to any home.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs can reflect solar heat, resulting in potential energy savings by reducing cooling costs. You can also support them with extra insulation and install solar panels for energy efficiency benefits.
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Disadvantages of Metal Roofing
Even with all the advantages metal roofs bring, there are a few drawbacks that need to be considered:
Higher Installation Costs
The initial cost of metal roofing is higher than that of asphalt shingles, making it a more significant upfront investment. However, metal roofing lasts twice as long as most other roofing systems, saving you money in repairs and replacements.
Complex Installation
Installing metal roofing is more challenging and requires specialized skills; without it, the roof’s seams can fail.
Safety
If we get one of our notorious Minnesota winters, your metal roof isn't the safest place when it's covered in snow or wet, so if you need to remove snow, call a pro or have the right equipment.
Get Roofing Solutions Customized to Your Needs
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your unique needs, budget, and long-term goals. If you're still undecided, our roofing contractors are always available for an assessment to help you find the best fit for your property.
Since 1973, we've been serving St. Cloud with a 100% commitment to total customer satisfaction with everything from gutters to energy-efficient window installations.
Our experts are standing by to answer all your questions. If you need to schedule an appointment, call our Sauk Rapids office at 320-252-9806 or reach out to us online, and we'll get back to you shortly.
Resources: __________________________________________________________________
Do Metal Roofs Require a Lot of Maintenance? (mcelroymetal.com)
Pros and Cons of a Metal Roof (thespruce.com