What is right for you? Metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles

In the last decade or more, metal roofs increasingly have found their way into residential use. In 2015, the Metal Roof Alliance estimated roofers installed 750,000 metal roofs on U.S. homes. Since then, we’ve seen double digit market growth for this type of roof. And during the same time, asphalt shingles market share has dipped slightly.

The improvements in the styling of metal roofs – coupled with the longevity of the materials – are a contributing factor in the rapid growth of metal roofs. No longer is it a thought that your metal roof will make your house look like your barn. In fact, with its growth in popularity, you’ll be the trendsetter in your neighborhood with an addition of a metal roof.

Don’t worry, asphalt roof fans: All this praise for metal roofing does not mean our good ol’ standby asphalt roofing is going away. Asphalt shingles still remain the most popular choice for residential roofing. And, it is so popular for a lot of good reasons – they are waterproof and wind resistant, easy to install and affordable, just to name a few benefits.

So, what is a homeowner to choose? Here’s a quick guide to know who wins in a head-to-head competition. Metal roofs or asphalt shingles: What’s the best fit for your home?

When it comes to style:
Winner: It’s a draw!

Both metal roofs and asphalt roofs have finish options for every housing style. Metal roofs now come in just about every color under the sun, and asphalts have long since come in a tapestry of colors. If you are deciding on metal or asphalt based on styling – you’ll just have to choose based on personal preference. Either choice can be customized to your style.

When it comes to durability:
Winner: Metal roofs

Based on durability and strength, metal roofing edges out asphalt roofs. Metal roofs often can withstand wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour – a nice feature in tornado-prone Oklahoma. Depending on the type chosen, metal roofs are also impact-resistant – great for the hailstorms Oklahoma throws at us.

When it comes to affordability:
Winner: Asphalt roofing

Concerning price, the clear winner is asphalt. While you do get benefits in longevity and durability, metal roofing can be anywhere from 20 percent to 300 percent more than asphalt, depending on the product selected on either. In addition, installation is more expensive for metal roofing than asphalt, as it requires specialized skills to do it correctly. Now, keep in mind, you may recoup some of these initial costs over time – if you don’t replace your roof as often, you’ll save money in the long term. And, many times, homeowner insurance will give discounts for metal roofs, or you might qualify for a tax credit in some areas for adding a metal roof.

When it comes to being eco-friendly:
Winner: Metal roofs

In regard to the environment, our clear winner is metal roofs. Metal roofing materials are made primarily from recycled materials, and these metals can be used again and again. In addition, metal roofs are more energy efficient than asphalt because they are reflective – acting to block heat transmission to inside the home. In contrast, more than 20 billion pounds of old asphalt shingles, which is a petroleum-based product, end up in U.S. landfills every year, according to Bob Villa Homes.

When it comes to installation and repair:
Winner: Asphalt roofing

Asphalt roofs can be installed in just a couple of days, and it requires little specialized skills. Often, it can be installed directly over the existing roof materials, making for quick work for installers. Repairs are similarly made with ease. Metal roofs require larger panels to be replaced when needed. In contrast, asphalt roofs often can be repaired in just the small area where damage has occurred.

Still haven’t decided on the best materials for your roof? Check out other top roofing materials here.

In the end, the decision for a metal roof or an asphalt one depends on which factor is important to you. Maybe you want this to be the last roof you ever need, so you’ll go with metal. Or maybe ease of installation tips the scale for you, and you’ll choose asphalt. We’d love to help guide you to see which roof is right for you and your home. Call us anytime at 918-258-2585. We can come out to give you a free estimate and show you samples of roofing materials to best suit your home.